John and Stephanie Lind
(Work in progress)
Images curtesy of Blekinge Museum
I’m researching the life of John Lind (1877-1940), Sweden’s most forgotten female impersonator (drag queen) and his wife Stephanie Lind nee Klein (1882-1973) who was his dresser, manager, and no 1 fan.
John Lind grew up in Karlskrona, Sweden, and performed on stages around the world, but only very seldom in Sweden.
He created stage acts which included dancing (including ballet), singing, impersonations of celebrities – all which included dresses chosen by him and made by fashion houses in cities like Paris. He built his act on passing as a woman, and did quick changes between female and male roles.
His wife Stephanie helped him get into the gowns and corsets, as well as worked as his impressario.
I’m currently hoping to recreate his acts, with a dancer playing John and myself in the role of Stephanie.