How to become a drag performer

Is becoming a drag performer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do drag performers do?

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How to become a Drag Performer

Becoming a drag performer involves a combination of self-expression, artistic development, and community engagement. Here are steps you can take to pursue a career as a drag performer:

  • Explore Drag Culture: Start by immersing yourself in drag culture and familiarizing yourself with the diverse styles, personas, and performances within the drag community. Attend drag shows, festivals, and events in your area to gain exposure to different types of drag and connect with local drag performers.
  • Discover Your Drag Persona: Experiment with different looks, styles, and personas to discover your own unique drag identity. Consider aspects such as your drag name, aesthetic, personality, and performance style, and explore ways to express yourself authentically through drag.
  • Develop Your Skills: Hone your performance skills in areas such as lip-syncing, singing, dancing, comedy, and improvisation. Take classes, workshops, and lessons to improve your technique and confidence on stage, and practice regularly to refine your craft.
  • Build Your Drag Wardrobe: Invest in costumes, wigs, makeup, and accessories to create your drag persona and develop your signature look. Experiment with different styles, colors, and textures to express your creativity and enhance your stage presence.
  • Network with Drag Community: Connect with other drag performers, organizers, and fans in your local drag community to build relationships, seek advice, and find opportunities for collaboration and performance. Join online forums, social media groups, and drag organizations to stay connected and informed about drag-related events and activities.
  • Perform in Drag: Start performing in drag at open mic nights, talent showcases, and amateur drag competitions to gain experience and exposure as a performer. Embrace opportunities to perform in diverse venues and settings, and use each performance as a chance to refine your skills and connect with audiences.
  • Seek Mentorship: Find experienced drag performers who can mentor and guide you in your journey as a drag performer. Learn from their experience, wisdom, and advice, and use their support and encouragement to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities of the drag world.
  • Promote Yourself: Create a professional online presence, including social media profiles, a website, and promotional materials, to showcase your drag persona and promote your performances. Utilize online platforms, local media, and word-of-mouth referrals to attract audiences and build your fan base as a drag performer.

Helpful Resources
There are several helpful resources available to drag performers that will help support their journey and development in the drag community. Here are some recommendations:

  • Local Drag Communities: Joining local drag communities can involve attending drag shows, events, and meetups in your area. For example, you might find drag shows at LGBTQ+ bars or clubs, attend drag brunches, or participate in drag-themed fundraisers organized by local LGBTQ+ organizations.
  • Drag Workshops and Classes: Look for drag workshops and classes offered by drag performers or organizations in your city. For instance, Drag Academy in Los Angeles offers classes on makeup, performance, and costume design taught by experienced drag queens.
  • Online Drag Resources: Websites like Dragaholic feature articles, tutorials, and interviews with drag performers. Reddit's r/Drag community provides a platform for discussion and sharing tips, tricks, and experiences related to drag.
  • Drag Competitions and Events: Participating in drag competitions and events can provide valuable exposure and experience. Look for events like "Amateur Drag Night" at local venues or regional drag pageants like Miss Gay [Your City] or Mister [Your State].
  • Drag Mentorship Programs: Some drag performers offer mentorship programs for emerging talent. For example, the "Drag Mentorship Program" by a local drag collective might pair new drag performers with experienced mentors who provide guidance and support.
  • Drag Publications and Media: Drag magazines and online publications like Drag Magazine or Out Magazine often feature articles, interviews, and reviews related to drag culture and performance. Following drag-related accounts on social media platforms like Instagram or Twitter can also keep you updated on drag news and trends.
  • Drag Conventions and Conferences: Attending drag conventions and conferences can provide opportunities for networking and learning. RuPaul's DragCon, held annually in Los Angeles and New York City, features panels, workshops, and performances by drag artists from around the world.