Dorian Corey

Dorian Corey (circa 1937 – August 29, 1993) was an American drag performer and fashion designer. She is best known for her appearance in the 1990 documentary film Paris Is Burning, which chronicled the ball culture of New York City and the African-American, Latino, gay, and transgender communities involved in it.

Early Life

Dorian Corey was born in Buffalo, New York. She attended Buffalo State College, where she studied art. After college, she moved to New York City, where she became involved in the drag and ball culture scene.

Career

Corey was a prominent figure in the Harlem drag balls, where she was known for her elaborate costumes and performances. She was a member of the House of Corey, one of the many "houses" that competed in the balls. Corey won over fifty grand prizes during her career in the ball scene.

In addition to her performances, Corey was also a talented fashion designer. She designed many of her own costumes and also created outfits for other performers. Her work was characterized by its intricate detail and glamorous style.

Paris Is Burning

Dorian Corey gained widespread recognition for her role in the documentary Paris Is Burning. The film, directed by Jennie Livingston, explored the lives of several drag queens and the ball culture in New York City during the 1980s. Corey provided one of the film's most memorable quotes: "You shoot an arrow into the air. Where it lands, I do not care: I know where it lands, not you."

Legacy

Corey passed away on August 29, 1993, from complications related to AIDS. After her death, a mummified body was discovered in her apartment, which led to much speculation and media attention. The body was later identified as Robert Worley, and the circumstances of his death remain unclear.

Dorian Corey is remembered as a pioneering figure in the drag and ball culture. Her contributions to the art of drag performance and her role in Paris Is Burning have left a lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

See Also

• Paris Is Burning (film)
• Ball culture
• Drag queen
• House of Corey
• LGBT culture in New York City