TAKES THE CAKE: SEASON 1

In the summer of 2021, Takes the Cake took the stage for the very first time. A drag competition for drag king, things, and other non-binary & queer performers, the 5 week competition brought out 40 new performers from all through New York.

Judged by local nightlife staples, such as God Complex, Uncle Freak, C'etait Bontemps, and Untitled Queen, the performers were not eliminated, but instead given intentional feedback to further their drag. Not only was this competition the first chance for new performers to lipsync, but it was the first opportunity for the Cake Boys to combine our live shows with our digital presence. Livestreamed for the masses, the Cake Boys were able to present the competition for those at home - with animation and graphics to bring the show viewing to a new level.

In a grand finale packed at Brooklyn’s 3 Dollar Bill, the competition crowned its first winner: the multitalented visionary artist and musician, Klondyke. Alongside Klondyke, the competition has heralded an alumni of drag kings such as Themme, Lucky Pierre, Mx. Lestrange, and Tuna Melt, who have all continued to storm stages throughout New York as producers and performers.