Celebrating Kings of Joy: A Year of Leadership, Dedication, and Community

As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the incredible humans who make Kings of Joy the vibrant, empowering, and joyful community it is. For the very first time, we’re acknowledging some key players with special awards—recognising leadership, creativity, dedication, and community spirit.

From creating choreography to amplifying Drag King visibility across the globe, these Kings have shown what it means to step up, shine, and inspire us all. Let’s give a round of applause to our award recipients, as well as the behind-the-scenes stars who make it all happen!

Special Recognition Award

Becks Blake aka Jim Junkie

Awarded for serving as Assistant Deputy Coach for Kings of Joy Gold Stars and All-Stars. Becks empowered each performer to shine in their Drag King persona, offering encouragement, guidance, and heart.

Special Recognition Award

Max Vickers aka TEABOI

Max has been a rock as the Kings of Joy Assistant Choreographer, supporting Gold Stars and All Stars in rehearsals and assisting me as King Coach with choreography. Their energy and skill have been vital in bringing performances to life.

Kings of Joy Community Award

Jay Harthun aka Holden Cox

Jay made something truly special happen—securing the Kings of Joy Drag King float for the 2024 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras! And they did this last minute, in an airport, on their way to the US. That bold move amplified visibility and pride for Drag Kings everywhere. Because of Jay, the Drag King community is set to march next year with 80 Drag Kings. Unbelievable!

Kings of Joy Community Award

Katie Lambert aka Randy Rootrat

Randy Rootrat brought Kings of Joy’s artistry to a whole new level with a stunning exhibition at the Tap Gallery in June. Through Randy’s vision and dedication, the exhibition showcased the creativity, courage, and talent of our Kings of Joy community. Randy reminds us all:

“Find yourself, find your truth, and put it out there.”

Certificate of Dedication

Leesh Tetley aka Dustin Le Rugrat

Leesh’s commitment to Kings of Joy All-Stars is unparalleled. Having participated in seven consecutive rounds, Leesh mastered choreography in seven group routines, delivered an unforgettable duo, and debuted her first solo performance—all achieved remotely online. Truly extraordinary!

Certificate of Excellence

Anna Shepherd aka Ragnor the Ravishing

AJ created magic far beyond our stages this year. By travelling to Kenya, AJ brought love, hope, and the spirit of joy to the Block 13 queer refugee family through an in-person Mardi Gras celebration. AJ’s work created extraordinary moments for a community that needed it most.

Behind-the-Scenes Superstars

Natalie Reid aka Rex McCooch

Natalie is our Kings of Joy Assistant—the powerhouse behind setting up blog posts and social media content. She is also our music producer, mixing tracks and ensuring every performance hits just right.

Natalie is a joy to work with. Funny, raw, and real, she brings a grounded energy that I can always count on. Honestly, I couldn’t do my job as well without her incredible support.

Sasha Defaux aka Mr. Jones/Loverman

Sasha is our Kings of Joy Concierge, heading up our incredible team of event volunteers on the door. Whether it’s Queers of Joy or Drag Kingdom, Sasha has been an unwavering rock, showing up time and time again with kindness and dedication.

Beyond her role, Sasha is an inspiring Drag King performer in her own right, a true leader who models generosity, strength, and community spirit. We are so lucky to have her.

To all of you—on stage, behind the scenes, and everywhere in between—you make this community magic. Kings of Joy isn’t just about performing; it’s about showing up for one another, owning your truth, and lifting each other higher.

Here’s to every award winner, leader, performer, and supporter. Your contributions this year have built something extraordinary. Let’s carry this momentum into the new year—bolder, brighter, and more joyful than ever.

With deep gratitude,

Danica Lani

The King Coach

P.S. Wanna be a Drag King? Learn how to become a Drag King. Click here to join the Kings of Joy community

Photo credit: 📸 Sarah Malone