Queen of the Capital

“With an engrossing lens on Muffy and the people she loves, QUEEN OF THE CAPITAL is genuinely poignant, gleeful, and honest.” - Film Threat

Josh Davidsburg’s vivacious and inspiring documentary follows Muffy Blake Stephyns, a drag performer with high aspirations. Muffy and her everyday persona, Daniel, navigate the drag and bureaucratic worlds of Washington, D.C., while following her dream to lead a colorful group of philanthropic drag performers. Using skills from a former life as a campaign consultant, she runs for Empress of the Imperial Court of Washington, D.C.

“In a time when many LGBTQ films choose to focus on tragedy, homophobia and death, QUEEN OF THE CAPITAL stands out by centering on the cheerful day-to-day life of LGBTQ people interacting with their chosen family and friends. And the positivity is not artificial—it’s clear that the community has known severe hardship. The film touches on HIV/AIDS, disabilities, abusive relationships, homophobic religions, loss and more. But it always returns to the strong personal bonds interwoven throughout the Imperial Court.” - Katie Fleischer, Ms. Magazine

“A compelling narrative through the caring lens it shines on the nature of drag to bring people together.” - Ian Thomas Malone