Drag queens are prominent LGBTQ+ figures both within the queer community and outside of it. In fact, over the last fifteen years drag culture has notably come into mainstream media largely thanks to RuPaul’s addictive RuPaul’s Drag Race series, and their presence at Pride Events worldwide.

But how did drag queens transform from men playing female characters in ancient Greek theatre to a way for LGBTQ+ individuals to channel queer rights in the mainstream media? Keep reading as we delve into the history of drag and discuss the importance of drag queens in queer culture and language today. It’s time for us to spill the tea…

Drag in Ancient Theatre

The origins of drag can be traced back to ancient civilisations, notably in cultures and religions where cross-dressing was prevalent. Many historians cite early examples of drag in ancient Greek theatre; since women weren’t allowed to perform on stage, men would have to play female characters and dress up to deliver a convincing performance. This tradition was also heavily relied upon in the Shakespearean era and the playwright even used this to write entertaining plays centred around gender swapping. Linguists have since traced the word ‘drag’ back to these familiar theatre origins, a consequence of the dresses men wore to play female characters always dragging along the floor.

Modern Drag

Drag, as we recognise it today, has roots in the late 19th and early 20th century vaudeville and burlesque scenes. Female impersonators would portray exaggerated femininity for comedic effect, calling themselves drag queens in their craft. Such performances offered LGBTQ+ individuals an opportunity to explore their identity in a society that was hostile and intolerant to queer people.

Outside of these shows, England’s first drag queen can be traced back to 1730s London. Gentleman’s servant John Cooper would visit the city’s molly houses, the equivalent of gay bars, as Princess Seraphina. It’s important to note that while historians often cite Seraphina as England’s first drag queen, there’s a chance that Cooper would describe themselves as a
trans woman today, particularly as Princess Seraphina was known in the local area to dress in women’s clothes regularly. Such shows the importance and influence of language in queer identity!

Ballroom Culture

While drag can be traced back hundreds of years, the majority of modern drag queens actually credit 20th-century ballroom culture as the true inspiration for their art. The peak of this thriving subculture took place in the early 1970s when black and Latino gay, trans and queer individuals performed in front of audiences and “houses” - chosen family units created by house “mothers” or “fathers” where marginalised people could find acceptance in their identities. In ballroom, the world of drag pageantry (which often favoured white contestants) was completely turned on its head with various performance categories, including “vogue” battles.

RuPaul and Drag Slang

Often called the “Queen of Drag”, RuPaul Charles is one of the most famous drag queens in the world. RuPaul catapulted to international fame after the release of his debut single "Supermodel (You Better Work)" in 1993, however, his hit reality TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race well and truly brought drag culture into the mainstream. The show continues to be a success with both queer and straight audiences, giving rise to a new generation of drag queens and inspiring everyone to live as authentically as they can.

And the effects of Drag Race cannot be understated. Not only does this programme create a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ individuals, but it has also introduced drag slang into the vernacular, such as:

• Shade: To “throw shade” is to insult someone verbally or through your body language.

• Read: The act of “reading” is to take down another drag queen with the cleverest insults (in good faith).

• Realness: When a drag queen “serves realness” she has successfully met the outfit and theme brief.

• Sickening: Ironically, it’s good to be “sickening.” This means you are fabulous and other queens are nothing but envious of you.

• Tea: The gossip. If someone asks you to “spill the tea,” they’re asking you to tell them everything you know.

How Are Drag Queens Important in Queer Culture?

Despite drag culture transforming through the years, drag has always remained a pivotal and important part of the LGBTQ+ community and its culture.

Drag Is a Powerful Tool for Self-Expression

Through drag, many queer individuals have found a safe space to express themselves and explore their identity. Whether it’s through designing extravagant outfits, performing lip-syncs and comedy sets, or even starting a social commentary on a topic close to their heart, drag is an accessible way for the LGBTQ+ community to live in a way that’s authentically theirs.

Drag Allows Performers to Address Political and Social Issues

Beyond its entertainment value, drag can be used to question political and social norms - and act as a catalyst for dialogue. Many performers use their drag platform to address social issues such as discrimination, inequality and LGBTQ+ rights, and others perform to bring visibility to overlooked communities and issues.

Drag Creates a Sense of Belonging for LGBTQ+ Individuals

Drag performers provide representation for anyone around the world who feels they don’t fit in. They can act as role models and mentors to younger members of the LGBTQ+ community, and give them guidance and support. Their recent shift into mainstream media has also helped to break down stereotypes and make queer people feel more accepted for who they are.

The Importance of Drag Queens: Further Resources

• Watch RuPaul’s Drag Race on World of Wonder or Netflix.
• Read about drag culture with these books about drag.
• Make your way through this list of drag films and movies.
• The website, The Drag Queen is Born, is full of articles, news snippets and interviews with drag queens throughout history