The world of drag is as dazzling and multifaceted as the outfits and personalities it showcases. Many people, including myself, have stumbled into the realm of drag in the most unconventional ways. For me, it was filming music videos for fundraisers during COVID. But if you’re sitting there wondering how to start doing drag, the simplest answer is just to start. There’s no universal path to launching a drag career, but here are 6 of 13 crucial considerations to help you carve out your niche in the drag universe.
Disclaimer: This guidance reflects my personal journey and insights into drag, two years in. While I offer advice based on my experiences, drag’s vast, evolving nature means there’s always more to learn. I’m still refining my artistry and consider this post a starting point for discussion and reflection, not an exhaustive guide. May it inspire and encourage exploration among both experienced performers and newcomers alike, as we navigate this ever-changing art form together.
1. First, A Reality Check
Ah, the bright and glittering world of drag, as seen through the rose-tinted glasses of Hollywood. Before you throw yourself into this whirlwind of sequins, sass, and stiletto heels, let’s pop that bubble of illusion, shall we? The drag you’ve been served on a silver screen is akin to being shown the icing without the cake, or worse, the cake without the countless hours of baking, frosting mishaps, and kitchen disasters that led to its creation.
Beyond the Glam
- The Real Drag: Far from Hollywood’s glittery portrayal. It’s art, expression, and community, mixed with hard work and less constant partying.
- Beauty Hurts: Corsets that could reshape continents, wig glue that’s a forehead’s nemesis, and stiletto heels as a medieval torture device.
- Expensive Hobby, Uncertain Career: Building your persona costs a fortune before it pays. Experimentation is pricey, and the drag scene’s competitive nature means you’re splurging on outfits and makeup with no immediate returns.
- Crowded Spotlight: The drag scene is overflowing with talent. Standing out is tough, and snagging gigs even tougher, slowing down any dreams of quick profits.
- A Passion Project: Drag demands more than just financial investment. It’s a commitment. The returns aren’t immediate. Reflect on why drag appeals to you before taking the plunge.
In essence, consider drag as less of a spontaneous sprint in heels and more of a marathon… in heels, over cobblestones, during a thunderstorm. Still interested? Good. Buckle up (or lace up those corsets), and let’s dive into the next consideration.
2. Forge Your Own Path
Ah, the quest for individuality in the sea of sequins and false lashes. If you’re aiming to be the next big thing in drag, blending into the background is a no-go. Let’s dive into how you can become the unforgettable star of the show, not just another face in the crowd.
- YOU-niqueness Your drag persona should echo your inner uniqueness. It’s about channeling your distinct identity, not copying someone else’s homework. Remember, imitation might be the sincerest form of flattery, but in drag, it can be the quickest route to obscurity.
- Be the Unforgettable Sight: Being visually distinctive can be your best bet for memorability. That “girl with the big blue wig” or “the one with glitter lipstick” tag? That’s gold. It means you’ve left a mark. After all, in a world that adores visuals, being the vivid dream (or delightful nightmare) that no one can forget is your aim.
- A Name to Remember: Sometimes, it’s not just about the look. A distinctive, catchy name can be just as powerful as a head-turning outfit. Think of it as your personal brand slogan. It’s sticky, it’s memorable, and it’s entirely yours. So, while “Dragatha Christie” might not recall your exact outfit, they’ll never forget to whisper your name in awe.
3. What’s Your Act?
So, you’ve sculpted your look into something unforgettable, but what’s a stunning visual without substance? A beautifully wrapped present with nothing inside—a disappointment, darling. Your act, the essence of your performance, is where you truly shine. Let’s unwrap that, shall we?
The Heart of the Performance
- Entertain, Entice, Engage: Remember, at its core, drag is about entertainment. Your act is more than just a visual feast; it’s a performance that should captivate, entertain, and even provoke thought. What can you do that will have the audience eating out of the palm of your hand?
- Passion on Display: Whether you’re a master of lip-sync battles, a vocal virtuoso, or a comedy queen, make sure your act is something that lights a fire in you. Passion is not just an accessory; it’s your main outfit. If you’re doing what you love, it shows. And when it shows, it glows.
- Vibe with Your Audience: The energy you bring to the stage is infectious. It’s a two-way street; what you give is what you get back. A performance that radiates joy and passion is a performance that’s remembered. When you enjoy your act, the audience does too. It’s about creating an experience, a moment in time that you and the audience live and breathe together.
4. Commit to Lifelong Learning
Alright, you’ve crafted an unforgettable persona, nailed your distinct aesthetic, and fine-tuned your act to perfection. But guess what? The glittery world of drag isn’t one to stand still, and neither should you. Welcome to the ongoing masterclass that is your drag career.
The Art of Evolution
- Stay Sharp, Stay Shiny: Just as fashion cycles and music trends evolve, so does the art of drag. To stay on the crest of the wave rather than being swept under, you’ll need to be as adaptable as your most versatile outfit. Continuous learning is not just recommended; it’s essential.
- More Tools, More Triumphs: Think of each new skill you acquire as another feather in your cap (or another sequin on your gown). From sewing your own show-stopping outfits to mastering the art of makeup transformation, every new talent you add to your repertoire not only enhances your performance but sets you apart in a crowded room of queens.
- Unique Skills, Unique Spotlight: In the drag community, being a jack-of-all-trades can truly be your ace. Every new skill isn’t just a personal victory; it’s a professional advantage. Whether it’s incorporating acrobatics into your act, becoming a wig-snatching stylist, or mastering the art of comedic timing, each ability you master makes your spotlight shine that bit brighter.
Me, dressed as the Titanic, for a performance of "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion.
Me, dressed as Ariel from The Little Mermaid, covered in "pollution".
5. Craft your Signature Performances
Quality Over Quantity: A Philosophy
- Audience Amnesia? Myth Busted: The fear of repetition is one that haunts many a performer. Yet, in the realm of drag, a killer number twice is better than fifty forgotten ones. Audiences revel in the familiarity of a beloved performance, especially when it’s delivered with passion and precision.
- Memorable, Not Mundane: Casting a wide net with an arsenal of lip-sync songs might seem like a good idea, but it’s the depth that truly captivates. Focusing on crafting a few mind-blowing performances can elevate your act from being just another drag queen to becoming a legend. Think quality, not quantity.
The Signature Staples: Your Show-Stoppers
- Identify Your Blockbusters: Knowing your real crowd-pleasers is like having a secret weapon. These are the performances that not only highlight your unique talents but leave the audience gagging for more. What makes your heart sing and the crowd go wild? That’s your goldmine.
- Iconic is as Iconic Does: Take, for instance, the brilliance of reimagining “Part of Your World” with a modern twist. Dressing as Ariel, not in her pristine princess form, but adorned in the detritus of today’s oceans, sends a powerful message. It’s clever, poignant, and memorable. It’s not just a performance; it’s a statement. This is the kind of creativity and unique spin that turns a good number into an iconic one.
6. Pursue Drag for the Joy of It
Navigating drag can be as complex as a sequin pattern on your favorite gown. But at the heart of it all, the reasons why you step into those fabulous heels can define your journey. Let’s sift through the rhinestones and find the gold—why do drag at all?
The Right Reasons to Do Drag:
- To have fun and laugh.
- To get involved with the community.
- To act stupid with your friends.
- To express yourself.
- To balance out an otherwise boring life.
- And, yes, to get attention.
- Common Thread: Each of these motivations shares a fundamental truth—they make the art of drag deeply personal and rewarding. From the fun of transformation to the thrill of performance, the heart of drag is in its capacity to bring joy, not just to you but to those around you.
The Wrong Reasons to Do Drag:
- Drag is Easy. If you’re stepping into drag with the idea that it’s an easy ticket to fame, fortune, or love, you’re likely in for a rude awakening. Drag is an art form that demands continuous learning, growth, and, yes, sacrifice. It challenges you, pushes your creative boundaries, and yes, it can be downright exhausting. It’s a labor of love, not a walk in the park.
- Drag Won’t Affect Your Dating Life: Your dating life might just get more interesting—or complicated. The commitment to drag can be as consuming as any passion. Scheduling dates will require approval by your drag persona’s booking schedule. Hosting hookups? Good luck explaining the wigs on mannequin heads in full display to your guest. That is if you manage to clean up the piles of clothes and makeup that were left out while you were rushing to finish gettting ready!
- Financial Fantasies: While drag can be lucrative for some, it’s a road paved with glitter, sweat, and tears. Success in drag, like any artistic endeavor, requires dedication, passion, and a pinch (or pound) of luck. To quote Dolly Parton: “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap.”
Wrapping Up Part 1
As we wrap up the first chapter of our guide to the glittering world of drag, it’s clear that the journey is as multifaceted as the finest gemstone. From confronting the raw realities and forging your unique path to mastering your act, committing to lifelong learning, and crafting those signature performances, each step is a stride towards finding your place in the dazzling universe of drag.
Yet, at the core of it all, is the pursuit of joy. The radiant joy that comes from expressing your truest self, entertaining an audience, and being part of a vibrant community. This intrinsic joy is what fuels the long nights, the endless rehearsals, and the moments of doubt. It’s what makes the art of drag not just a performance, but a profound act of love and expression.
As we curtain close on Part 1, remember, the journey into drag is ongoing, a never-ending road of discovery, challenge, and triumph. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll delve even deeper into the essentials of becoming not just a drag artist but a drag icon. From navigating the complexities of community dynamics to the art of self-promotion and beyond, the adventure continues. Join us as we explore the next steps in your drag odyssey, where passion meets performance, and dreams take flight on the wings of glitter.
— XOXO. Luz Lips
