Drag artistry, in which performers don clothing and personas typically associated with a different gender, has a long history spanning centuries and continents. Here is a list of drag artists from various regions and time periods:
- Rome: In ancient Rome, men performed in women’s clothing in theatrical productions.
- Japan: The kabuki theatre tradition in Japan has a history of male actors playing female roles, known as onnagata.
- Europe: During the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe, women were not allowed to perform on stage, so men often played female roles in theatre productions. This tradition was known as breeches roles.
- Paris: The French can-can dance was performed by women, but some male performers would also dress in women’s clothing to perform the dance.
- America: The drag scene in America has a long history, with performers like Julian Eltinge, who became famous in the early 20th century for his female impersonations.
- England: In the UK, drag artist Danny La Rue was a prominent figure in the 1960s and 1970s.
- Australia: Australia has a vibrant drag scene, with performers like Dame Edna Everage, who became a popular character in the 1970s.
- Asia: In Thailand, there is a long tradition of male performers known as kathoey or ladyboys, who perform in drag.
- South America: The drag scene in South America is also thriving, with performers like Pabllo Vittar from Brazil and La Prohibida from Spain.
- Africa: In South Africa, drag performers like Manila von Teez and Odidiva are gaining popularity.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it gives a glimpse into the long and varied history of drag artistry around the world.
And should shut the bigots and empty-headed noise makers who dislike different things and like to cause trouble…
Long live drag and plays and pantomimes, that had coloured our history and brightened up our world. As long as there is mutual respect for art and appropriate handling there should never be any issues.
Always check Snopes for information. ALWAYS look before you post!
Don’t be a dummy and spread unnecessary hate!
Julan62 