Drag queens throughout the years

In this century drag is seen as almost mainstream. DRAG dives into the history of drag in order to see how it became the sensation that it is today.

Drag queen Heklina attending Iceland Pride in 2004.

1. 1601-1700

During the Shakespearian era, only men were allowed to perform on the stages of the British theatre. If there was a female character, then the producer would cast men in their place and make them dress in traditionally female clothing and makeup in order to take on the role. This seems to be the first instance of unofficial drag.

Heklina with Ginger Snaps, Holotta Tymes and Cookie Dough at Seattle Pride 2014.

2. 1970

In 1970s America, drag balls came to life. At these events, only the finest drag queens would present themselves on the runway to 'wow' the judges and win the trophy. It was in this decade when 'drag mothers' came about.

Heklina with D'Arcy Drollinger in 2017.

3. 1970-1980

The Stonewall Riot in 1969 allowed drag queens to fight for acceptance and equality within 1970-1980.

Heklina and Joey Arias celebrating Sherry Vine's 69th birthday.

4. 2009

In 2009, the Ru Paul’s Drag Race franchise was born, bringing drag to the mainstream and giving it a diverse audience. Programmes like RuPaul’s Drag Race have helped to introduce drag slang such as ‘shade’ and ‘tea’.

While drag was once just a means of filling female parts within plays when women weren’t allowed to do so themselves, it's now a global practice. In the modern day, drag has found its own fan base and has become a passion for many.

All images are courtesy of Heklina.