Drag show

Drag show at the Stonewall Discotheque in Miami Beach, Florida, in 1972

A drag show is a form of entertainment performed by drag artists impersonating men or women, typically in a bar or nightclub. Shows can range from burlesque-style, adult themed nightclub acts to all-ages events with sing-alongs and story times.

The modern drag show originated in the speakeasies and underground bars of 1920s and 1930s Prohibition America, in what was known as the Pansy Craze. Drag became a part of gay culture and a form of entertainment usually enjoyed by adults in bars.[1]

Typically, a drag show involves performers singing or lip-synching to songs while performing a pre-planned pantomime or dancing. There might also be some comedy, skits, and audience interaction. The performers are often given cash tips by the audience members.[2] The performers often don elaborate costumes and makeup, and sometimes dress to imitate various famous opposite sex singers or personalities. Young male dancers have often been included. Some other events are centered around drag-show type entertainment, such as Southern Decadence where the majority of festivities are led by the Grand Marshals, who traditionally are drag queens.[3]

  1. ^ "The Evolution Of The Art Of Drag In 33 Stunning, Historical Images". allthatsinteresting.com. 2018-12-15. Retrieved 2023-02-24.
  2. ^ "How to Navigate a Drag Show When It's Your First Time". Study Breaks. 2019-04-09. Retrieved 2020-12-17.
  3. ^ "Southern Decadence Official Website". Southerndecadence.net. 2013-09-03. Retrieved 2014-03-01.