What Is Drag?

Drag has gone from being something subversive, or even illegal, in its earliest days to becoming mainstream in the present day. Drag combines different components of performance to create a unique and entertaining experience of art. Although drag looks like a performance, it is also a cultural movement that celebrates different types of gender expression.

Drag Queens

The term “drag queen” refers to a man who performs as an exaggerated form of a woman. Drag queens often have lip-synching routines, fashion shows, and comedy acts, using theatrics to perform an exaggerated version of a woman’s behavior. Drag queens usually use fabrics, makeup, and elaborate costumes to femme-up their performance. The costumes and accents used by drag queens are often campy and unconventional, which is part of the appeal of drag performances.

Drag Kings

Drag kings are typically assigned female at birth (AFAB) and perform as a exaggerated version of a man. Like drag queens, drag kings use makeup, costuming, and may even indulge in lip-synching routines or comedy to accentuate their manly side. Drag kings may imitate traditional masculine behavior, such as aggression, drinking beer, and even spitting. While drag kings may be imitating traditional male behavior, this is often done by exaggerating and making fun of these types of behaviors.

The World of Drag

Drag has become increasingly popular in the mainstream in recent years. The popular TV show Ru Paul’s Drag Race has helped to bring drag culture to the forefront of pop culture. The show features drag queens from all over the world competing for the title of America’s Next Drag Superstar. This show has pushed drag forward, not just in the United States, but around the world. There are now many different drag shows, performances, and underground drag clubs in cities all over the world celebrating independent drag culture.

Drag is so much more than a performance. It is a form of art, a form of self-expression, and a form of celebration. It can be used to convey messages that everyone can relate to, while also entertaining audiences with outrageous performances. With rigorous routines, intricate costuming, and powerful performances, drag gives life to the persona of the drag queen or drag king. Drag performers are learning, growing, and always bringing new ideas to the stage.