Word of the Gay: "Drag Show"

A "drag show" is a production put on by males dressed in female attire, and females dressed in male attire. The actors are commonly referred to as drag queens and kings. These shows are a form of entertainment and celebration of gender bending and expression. Shows can consist of singing, modeling, comedy routines, and different skits.

Open Forum: A Drag for Trans Liberation?

Drag shows are becoming increasingly popular throughout the country especially on college campuses. Gays and straights alike are getting involved by participating in the shows or coming to watch as part of the audience. Many Gay-Straight Alliances throughout the country are hosting drag shows at their schools which are being celebrated as a fun time to kick back and have a good time.

What are the political ramifications of drag shows? Are they a positive or negative step in the fight for transgender liberation?

On one hand drag shows are an opportunity for someone who is transgender and closeted to feel safe and affirmed with the opportunity to express their true gender identity in a setting where it is accepted (atleast for the day). It is also an opportunity for gay and straight folks alike to see that gender expression is varied and cross dressing is not as taboo as society has made us think it is. Drag shows help break down barriers of gender dichotomy, and celebrate the exploration and experimentation with toying with our respective gender identities.

On the other hand drag shows are also looked at by many as simply freak shows. They attend such celebrations much like they attend Halloween and Mardis Gras as an attempt to have a good time and laugh at their friends. Or dress up themselves for the fun of it. These people are not viewing drag shows as an opportunity to break down the barriers of gender or to promote acceptance of gender variance but more as an attempt to make fun of the opposite gender from which they identify.

Thoughts? Do you feel drag shows help or hurt the movement for transgender lib?