LONG LIVE THE QUEEN (A HER-STORY OF DRAG) To Be Presented As Part Of Theatre Exile Studio X-Hibition
Andrea Clearfield composed the score for the genre-defying cantata, set for a full premiere at ArtPhilly
Theatre Exile has announced the next installment of its Studio X-hibition new play development program, featuring a pay-what-you-wish reading of LONG LIVE THE QUEEN (A HER-STORY OF DRAG) on April 30, 2026, at 7 p.m.
ABOUT THE WORK
Created by drag artist, opera singer, and Costume Designer Cookie Diorio, who also wrote the libretto, with an original score by composer Andrea Clearfield, LONG LIVE THE QUEEN blends drag, opera, cabaret, multimedia oratorio, and performance art. The work is scored for drag soloist (tenor), chorus, opera quartet, and chamber orchestra, reimagining operatic form through a contemporary queer lens.
The piece explores the history of drag and its role in queer culture, addressing the impact of misinformation and policy on marginalized communities while positioning drag as an act of resistance and self-expression.
STUDIO X-HIBITION PROGRAM
The reading is part of Studio X-hibition, Theatre Exile’s development initiative supporting new works through staged readings and workshops. Since its launch in 2010, the program has supported more than 41 new works, with 26 progressing to full productions or premieres.
The program has served as an incubator for artists including James Ijames and R. Eric Thomas, as well as projects such as Girl Dolls: The American Musical, developed in collaboration with The Bearded Ladies Cabaret.
FUTURE PLANS
This presentation marks a development step for LONG LIVE THE QUEEN, which is scheduled to premiere in June 2026 as part of ArtPhilly’s citywide festival. Studio X-hibition offers audiences an opportunity to experience new work in progress as it evolves toward full production.
Tickets for the reading are available on a pay-what-you-wish basis.
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