Classic Drag: Dorian Wayne

The female impersonators of the 1950s and ’60s were often flawless in their emulation of the glamorous female stars of the day. Most impersonators specialized in a few characters that were well known to the public. Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland, Bette Davis; all were portrayed by men on the stages of female impersonation clubs, theaters and even places like the local Moose Hall. Many of the photos of the queens of impersonation have disappeared over the years but now and then we come across some documentation that brings one of those old classic impersonators back. One of them was an Anita Ekberg (or possible Lauren Bacall?) look-a-like who performed under the name Dorian Wayne. Dorian was the creation of Rick Colantino. He performed with The Jewel Box Review and at the 82 Club in the late ’50s and early ’60s. He also starred in several “B” (or more like “D”) movies. Here is a short film about Dorian Wayne that includes film and still photos. It’s narrated by Rick Colantino.

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Tags: Dorian Wayne, drag, featured, History, impersonation, Rick Colantino

Category: Drag Queen, Impersonation, Transgender History