Mr Kewl - A Trailblazer Reimagined
Nadia Cleo Baradi Returns as Mr Kewl
Melbourne’s iconic Deaf Drag King is making a triumphant comeback. Nadia Cleo Baradi, the creative force behind the legendary persona Mr Kewl, is set to dazzle audiences once again at the Deaf Queer Festival in May 2025.
A Pioneering Journey
From his debut performance at the ADGLA party in 2000 to electrifying nights at the Star Hotel’s King Vic, Mr Kewl quickly became a cornerstone of Melbourne’s drag scene. His groundbreaking presence was further cemented when he snagged 2nd prize at the Bent TV Gong Show in 2001—a win that led to unforgettable performances, including a standout appearance at King Vic’s 50th show. Throughout the early 2000s, Mr Kewl captivated audiences at marquee events such as the Melbourne Marching Girls’ Hot August Party and earned multiple spots on Deaf TV, leaving an indelible mark on the community.
Relive the Magic
As we celebrate this monumental return, we invite you to step back in time with a couple of exclusive clips from Mr Kewl’s storied career:
These archival moments not only highlight Mr Kewl’s unique style but also serve as a testament to the creative innovation that he brought to the stage.
A New Chapter Begins
Now, as Nadia Cleo Baradi returns under the mantle of Mr Kewl, audiences are invited to witness a rebirth of an era-defining performance art. His comeback at the Deaf Queer Festival symbolizes both a homage to the past and a bold step into the future, where the spirit of rebellion, creativity, and community continues to thrive.
Join us in celebrating the return of a true icon—where every performance is a reminder that art knows no bounds, and every stage is a platform for breaking barriers.
Discover the legacy. Experience the rebirth. Welcome back, Mr Kewl.
Watch the Exclusive Interview with Mr Kewl! 🎤✨
Join us as we sit down with the legendary Mr Kewl, a trailblazing Drag King who has captivated audiences with their charisma, creativity, and fearless performances. In this exclusive interview, Mr Kewl shares their journey to becoming a well-known Drag King, the challenges and triumphs along the way, and what it means to return to the stage after a long hiatus.
With anticipation building for their upcoming performance at the Deaf Queer Festival (DQF) in May 2025, Mr Kewl opens up about the thrill of being back, reconnecting with the community, and what audiences can expect from their much-awaited comeback.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! Watch now. 🎭🌟