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Growing up in South Korea, a homogeneous country where more than fifty percent of the population believes homosexuality is not justifiable (World Values Survey 2017-2020), I am unfamiliar with the history and significance of drag shows. So, after I received an email from Dr. Gonzalez about Q&A Drag Show, I searched about its history and development. It was interesting to find out that the first instances of drag were during the Victorian period when English actresses impersonated men in theater, after the long history of theater and stages excluding female participation. The impersonation of the opposite sex was popular until 1933 when Hollywood’s production code banned the culture. After that, drag balls, what we know now as a drag show, mainly featured homosexuals and people of color impersonating the other sex that provided space for marginalized people in society.

Going to the event was a new and interesting experience for me, both the performances and the audiences (students). Each performer impersonated a character with a story and message they want to deliver to the audience, for instance, the first performer was a pop star, and the last performer portrayed body positivity and self-love. Each stage was more than just impersonating the other gender, it was also about expressing themselves through dance, music, and engaging with the audience. Students, including me, were excited and attentive. I loved the confidence performers had and the energy I could feel from the crowd that everyone was enjoying and appreciating the moment.