Shapeshifting between various ethereal and alien forms, drag artist Coco Klein has forged a unique identity and secured a well-deserved place among the legends of the international drag scene.
Channeling a magical essence, Coco captivates and dazzles audiences through inspired, conceptual displays of gender-bending, psychedelic, and esoteric artistry, remarkably defying the status quo of modern drag. Their work challenges popular notions that drag artists must present feminine personas and adhere to conventional performance norms to achieve success. In a landscape where many cling to the security of blending in, Coco Klein authentically dares to stand out and embrace oddities. Proudly self-proclaiming as a 'drag artist'—rather than Queen, King, or even Thing—they reflect a continuous effort to create profound visual and performance art that resonates beyond the gig, all the while championing the unconventional, and remaining true to themselves.
Born in Ontario, Canada, Coco grew up immersed in dance and performance. As a praised lyrical dancer and young actor with a talent for evoking emotion, Coco's determination and commitment to performance from adolescence paved the way for the astute, creative life they lead and advocate for. After relocating to Vancouver, BC, Coco Klein evolved into a fully realized drag persona, a name known amongst the local drag enthusiasts, and local oddballs. Despite being conceptualized and brought to life years prior, Coco Klein experienced an artistic rebirth during a music festival. This event reinvigorated their creative spark and catalyzed the emergence of the innovative and original drag artistry that defines Coco Klein today.
Coco Klein has made a significant impact on stages at some of the world’s top music festivals, including Bass Coast (BC, Canada), Shambhala (BC, Canada), Burning Man (USA), WHOLE Festival (Germany), and Boomtown Fair (UK).
Their artistry and gift for self-expression transcend their identity as a drag artist, permeating every aspect of their life. Whether praised as a stylist on film sets, curating community events and inspired functions, or simply getting dressed in the morning with a fiercely eccentric look, Coco embraces every opportunity to create and revel in life’s joys. Sharing art with the world is fundamentally who they are—an artist.
Having relocated to Berlin to deepen their connection with art in all its forms, Coco continues to create with passion and remarkable individuality. Life in Berlin has propelled them further into a realm of boundless artistry and expression. Notably, Coco has become a regular host and performer at the renowned "Lunch Box Candy," curated a weekly "So You Think You Can Drag" workshop encouraging newcomers to explore drag regardless of experience, and weekly hosts a karaoke night.
Just when you think this multi-faceted artist has shown all their tricks, Coco has also taken up DJing. They craft a unique soundscape that keeps people dancing and coming back for more, blending North America's West Coast sounds with newly adopted German trends to create a distinct, original style.
Over the past year abroad, Klein has developed some of the most resonant work in their portfolio. They have collaborated with numerous peers and creatives on projects ranging from clothing and design to photo campaigns, magazine spreads, fundraising events, protests, and, of course, festivals.
