Dorian Corey facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Dorian Corey
Dorian Corey in Paris Is Burning
Born	Frederick Legg June 6, 1937 Buffalo, New York, U.S.
Died	August 29, 1993 (aged 56) Manhattan, New York City, New York, U.S.
Alma mater	Parsons School of Design
Occupation	Drag queen, fashion designer

Dorian Corey (June 6, 1937 – August 29, 1993) was an American performer and fashion designer. She was well-known for her amazing drag performances. Dorian also appeared in the documentary film Paris Is Burning.

Early Life and Learning

Dorian Corey was born in Buffalo, New York. She grew up on a farm in Buffalo. In the 1950s, Dorian worked as a window dresser. This means she designed store window displays. Later, she moved to New York City. There, she studied art at the Parsons School of Design.

Her Career and Style

In the 1960s, Dorian Corey toured with the Pearl Box Revue. This was a special cabaret show. She was one of the performers on their music album in 1972.

Dorian was also the founder of the House of Corey. This was a famous group in the world of voguing balls. Voguing is a unique dance style. Her "house" won over 50 grand prizes. She was also a "house mother" to other performers. This meant she guided and supported them. One of her "children" was Angie Xtravaganza. Angie later became a house mother herself. Both Dorian and Angie were in the film Paris Is Burning.

Dorian also had her own clothing brand. It was called Corey Design. She designed many beautiful clothes. One of her acts included a huge feather cape. It was about 30 by 40 feet! She would shed the cape to show a sparkly body stocking. Then, two helpers would lift the cape on poles. It would become a feathered tent. This tent covered half of the audience.

Her Legacy

Dorian Corey passed away on August 29, 1993. She was 56 years old. Her remains were scattered near City Island, New York.

Dorian's impact on the drag and ballroom communities is still very important. She helped develop voguing into a key part of New York's ballroom culture. People remember her for her simple idea: "Everybody wants to make an impression, some mark upon the world. [...] You don't have to bend the whole world. I think it's better just to enjoy it. Pay your dues, and just enjoy it."