This October, The Gentlemen’s Club—India’s first drag king show—makes its international debut at London’s Soho Theatre. Running from 1st to 12th October 2024, the production, created by the Patchworks Ensemble and co-presented by the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai, explores gender fluidity through Mumbai’s vibrant underground drag scene. This thrilling cabaret-style show promises a bold, Bollywood-infused celebration of masculinity, marking a key moment for queer theatre on the global stage.

A Bold, Ground-Breaking Performance

Set in a fictional club night, The Gentlemen’s Club introduces audiences to a troupe of drag kings—women performing as men—who challenge traditional notions of masculinity. Leading the charge is Rocky, also known as Shamsher Kapoor, played by Puja Sarup, co-founder of Patchworks Ensemble. Rocky’s character is a tribute to Bollywood icon Shammi Kapoor, blending nostalgic film references with the bold swagger of drag performance. Audiences are immersed in an energetic mix of music, dance, and visual projection, while witnessing an inventive reimagining of gender on stage.

Premiering in India in 2015 while Section 377, a colonial-era law criminalizing queer identities, was still in effect, The Gentlemen’s Club became a trailblazer in India’s LGBTQIA+ scene. The show toured the country, performing at alternative venues, bars, and festivals, offering audiences a novel perspective on drag culture. Now, with its international premiere at Soho Theatre, the show has been updated to resonate with modern audiences, showcasing India’s evolving LGBTQIA+ landscape.

A Cross-Cultural Collaboration

This international debut represents more than just a performance—it marks a significant cultural exchange between India and the UK. Soho Theatre has long championed South Asian talent, and The Gentlemen’s Club reflects this commitment. Pooja Sivaraman, Creative Associate at Soho Theatre, describes the show as “a rambunctious exploration of urban masculinity in Mumbai, infused with a glittery energy that is distinctly Soho.”

Bruce Guthrie, Head of Theatre and Film at the NCPA, highlights the importance of the collaboration: “This show offers a brilliant mix of comedy, storytelling, and celebration of Mumbai’s underground drag king culture. It’s an exciting introduction to an emerging form of queer performance for UK audiences”.

A Must-See Queer Performance

Featuring an ensemble cast including Sheena Khalid, Rachel D’Souza, and Ratnabali Bhattacharjee, The Gentlemen’s Club has earned critical praise in India. Verve India called it “fierce and unapologetic” Verve India, while The Hindu lauded its experimental fusion of dialogue, music, and dance, labelling it a standout theatrical experience The Hindu.

Now in London, the production brings a fresh perspective on gender and identity. Audiences can expect to be transported to the heart of Mumbai’s club scene, where bold performances and cultural commentary blend seamlessly. The show’s roots in India’s LGBTQIA+ history, particularly its connection to the fight against Section 377, add depth to this vibrant performance.

Share Your Thoughts

How are drag kings shaping the future of queer performance? Have you experienced the cultural impact of drag shows in your city? Join the conversation on social media, and don’t miss the chance to experience The Gentlemen’s Club at Soho Theatre this October.

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The Gentlemen’s Club at Soho Theatre