'Dragtastic' Doc Hits DVD and VOD May 7

In in his debut feature film, UK director Colin Rothbart rips off the wigs and wipes away the mascara to find the real people behind the figureheads of East London's much-hyped alternative drag scene. Following in the tradition of Paris Is Burning and The Cockettes, "Dressed As A Girl" paints a compelling London portrait that pulls audiences beyond the performances into a mesmerising and previously inaccessible underworld.

Filmed over six years and following six cult stars as they swim against the tide (Jonny Woo, Holestar, Scottee, Amber Waze, Pia Arber and John Sizzle). The film follows the literal highs and graphic lows of this popular tribe, revealing the personal struggles of each heroine. Dressed as a Girl demonstrates how the power of friendship can ensure survival against all odds, and how individualism is a group activity. These radical, iconic, players come together to form a sturdy house of cards, and no matter how high the tide is - there's always a laugh to be had.

Director's Statement

As RuPaul says - "You're born naked and the rest is drag." Drag is often about creating an alternative persona which frees you up to do/say things you might not feel comfortable doing in daywear. It's about dressing up and having fun - being the person you want to be. Seven years ago, I was on holiday with Holestar (one of the stars of the documentary) discussing the vibrancy of the East London scene, when she pointed out there had never been a British "Paris is Burning" - even 25 years later. Why didn't we make one? Or at least attempt to document the lives of the fabulous performers of East London both on stage and off. And so the idea was born - though I think I've made a very different documentary with that British twist of self deprecation, pathos and humor.

I didn't want this doc to just be a "puff piece," it had to be a film full of universal truths - love, desire, insecurity, ambition, community, personal demons, family and familiar life experiences. And anyone who knows me knows I'm prepared to ask the difficult questions to get to the heart of the matter! I was brought up in an Orthodox Jewish family in NorthWest London where being gay wasn't ever an option. Once I came out in my early twenties, I felt I could truly be myself. When I started going out on the gay scene, I'd always had loads of fun when I'd gone out in drag. Everyone should give it a go. Though, up until the age of 30, if you'd have asked me if I could flick a switch and be straight, I'd have said "Yes," as I wanted to do what my straight friends were doing - get married and have kids, etc. But now I wouldn't change it for the world and really do view it as a gift.

People misunderstand drag performers as seemingly superficial drama queens, but they often have something important to say and aren't afraid to say it. Let's not forget that the Stonewall riots were started by drag queens and trans people! While performance is a huge part of these people's lives, I wanted to find stories that everyone could relate to, diving beneath the wit and banter to unveil the human side behind the glitter spray of East London's vibrant alternative drag scene. As one of the performers states in a show: "Behind the flawless maquillage, a broken facade." I'd definitely like to make more films about counterculture movements, give a voice to people who often don't have one and dive deeper into the important issues of our times - hopefully with a touch of humor. Fundamentally, I hope this film appeals to gays, lesbians, trans and straight people everywhere - even my parents - an inspirational story of survival and being true to yourself. - Colin Rothbart

Producers' Statement

"Dressed As A Girl is an amazing, authentic documentary of a scene that mashes up drag, punk, 'carry on', performance art and the avant-garde to create a Rabelaisian cocktail that is simply jaw-dropping. Uniquely British, it's extra-anarchic and extra- outrageous. Alcoholism, gender reassignment, sexual abuse, drug addiction, HIV, depression and fabulous outfits are all in the mix...not handled either with sentimentality or righteousness. Only people who are showing up for Life, fighting the good fight to bring joy to themselves and their audience through their art." - Exec. Producers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato ("Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures," "RuPaul's Drag Race," "Party Monster")