The drag scene in Brisbane is about to witness a historic moment with the debut of Mr First Nation the first-ever national Blak Drag King pageant. This groundbreaking event is part of the city’s renowned LGBTQIA+ arts festival, Melt and aims to spotlight the excellence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performers.
Inspired by the legacy of Miss First Nation this inaugural competition will celebrate Blak excellence, creativity, culture, and community. The call for contestants went out in February, inviting deadly Drag King performers from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander backgrounds to compete for the title. All styles, experiences, and skill levels were welcome to participate.
The Contestants: A Showcase of Talent
The team behind Mr First Nation has announced the seven drag kings who will be competing this October. Each performer brings a unique flair and cultural richness to the stage, promising a spectacular showcase of talent and self-expression.
Beedazled Shanks
Hailing from Gadigal/Wangal and Walbunja Yuin country, Beedazled Shanks is known for their high-energy performances and classic style. This triple threat is sure to captivate audiences with their dynamic presence.
Benny Hangslow
Benny Hangslow an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Brotherboy, captivates with electrifying performances rooted in his proud heritage. His journey enriches his connection to culture, weaving his experiences into a powerful form of cultural expression.
Craven Moorehead
Fresh from debuting with the Motherless Collective, Craven Moorehead is a dirty daddy Darug drag king known for his sex appeal, silliness, and burlesque daddy-drag realness. With his steel-capped boots and studded heart, he’s making a splash on stages across Naarm.
Paddy Swineheart
Broome-born and raised bad boy, Paddy Swineheart brings the party with his high-energy performances. Known for his ability to get the crowd dancing, he’s a rising star in the drag scene.
Sirlinski Styles
Sirlinski Styles is an Aboriginal mixed heritage Drag King who combines sexiness, style, and storytelling into his performances. His evolving artistry promises to be a highlight of the competition.
Terri Nullius
Described as Sydney’s deadliest Drag Thing, Terri Nullius is a Dharug Burubirangal and Gundungurra lesbian who serves powerhouse vocals with a side of closeted emo-kid dramatics. Their big buddoo energy is sure to command the stage.
Ur Dad Daryl
Ur Dad Daryl a Kanolu king with a heart of gold, brings a funky Father Figure energy to the competition. Known for his ability to cut a rug and get into the groove, Daryl is a favorite among audiences.
A Celebration of Culture and Community
Mr First Nation is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of creativity, culture, connection, and community. Taking place during Melt Festival in Magandjin (Brisbane), this event provides a bold new stage for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists to rise, create, and shine.
Presented by Brisbane Powerhouse, BRG Productions, and Party Passport the Kings will compete across three heats/nights:
- Best National Costume on October 21
- Mr Talent on October 22
- The Grand Final: Crown the King on October 23
Following the competition, the Queensland’s LGBTQIA+ community will gather for the Brisbane Pride Rally, March and Fair Day on October 24, the same day as Melt Festival’s River Pride Parade.
Mr First Nation creates a space for Blak Kings to stand tall, tell their stories, and showcase their artistry. Tickets are now on sale for this historic event, promising an unforgettable celebration of Blak excellence.
