War, idiot politicians, disease, reality tv, the world really is in a mess. Yes, what the world needs now is something to put a big heartwarming smile back on its face......enter Drag Syndrome. The only drag king and queen troupe whose members were all born with down syndrome. They were brought together in 2018 by choreographer Daniel Vais, to provide a platform for performers with learning disabilities and to challenge stereotypes.
Justin Bond acts as the informal leader of Drag Syndrome. “He’s really talkative and funny,” says Kohl. “He likes to take control.” Horrora Shebang, another core member Kohl became close to, has a “goth horror aesthetic” and Davina Starr is “camp and flirty”. “There’s a real mix of strong personalities. Some identify as gay, some would like to transition, and others just like to dress up,” says Kohl. “They are complex, tough people doing their own thing, walking paths that haven’t been walked before, and opening doors for others in the process.”
Jess Kohl made a joyous short film (above) following Drag Syndrome on a day trip to RuPaul’s DragCon UK, the film is all about empowerment. “I wanted to change the ‘oh, they’re so sweet’ reaction that these individuals often receive,” Kohl tells British Vogue. “Drag Syndrome’s artists are radically challenging preconceived notions of sexuality, gender and disability, while being authentically themselves.”
Drag Syndrome demonstrate to the world that people with Down Syndrome aren’t just sweet and cute. They are fierce, versatile, hard-working, professional artists who know how to put on a spectacular show and are committed to honing their craft.
They are currently comprised of Horrora Shebang, Justin Bond, Lady Francesca, Nikita Gold, Lady Mercury, and Davina Starr.
Drag syndrome have collaborated with Vogue, Hulu, RuPaul’s DragCon, Tate Modern, Nina West, Tayce, O2 Music, Instagram for business, London Pride, Alternative Miss World, Royal Opera House, Milk Makeup, Wolf Blass Wines, the British Council and more.
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