I know both trans drag queens and kings. A lot of younger people are more into the idea of it (say a ftm person decides to do drag queen work or even both, or a mtf does drag king work, or both). I will warn you, however, that some of the older drag troops don't always allow for that type of expression, yet, meanwhile younger ones do because they see gender and expression as more fluid, etc.
The drag king group here, for example, is completely accepting of the concept (made up of mostly younger people, and put on shows to raise money for LGBT youth), and not being allowed to perform at the gay club, they book one night a month at a small, local, arts club -- basically, the only club in town that allows people to have their own shows, rather than owners controling everything... thus, they have everything under the sun, and every night is different. It's a really cool concept and allows for a lot of art shows, new bands, goth nights, and non-mainstream music with new Dj's to show their talent.
The other main group is 99% drag queens, is mostly older, works at the local gay club, and generally thinks the idea of a trans person doing drag is "weird" and somewhat wrong in some sort of fashion (although, some individuals in the group might be okay with the idea, but I've heard that they aren't so into the idea). They do, however, have a couple of mtf persons that have a drag queen stage persona.
Different area's might have different rules, and same with different clubs. I think that we're just lucky to have an open concept type of club around here that allowed new ideas to flourish.
One little caveat about doing a drag persona of the opposite gender on stage (Ie mtf doing drag king and ftm doing drag queen, or people doing both drag and queen work), is that you will have some people who will not like it -- including the trans community. So, be prepared for that.
Also, when you're transsexual and decide to do drag in the opposite gender, it's important to have a good grip on who you are and confidence.
--natalie
Posted on: April 21, 2008, 01:56:42 PM
Quote from: Nero on April 19, 2008, 10:56:47 AM
Oh. My bad. Never heard of one either. But don't see why not either. I seem to remember a lady here who did drag king shows after transition.
Natalie/Gothique? Am I right hon?
Yep, that's me. I have my first "official" show on May 1st. I was going to do it earlier, but couldn't because of some health issues. I'm going as a drag king (and yes, I'm mtf). My stage persona is
Jonny Havok Isakk Jak Kingovphf, and I'll doing "I hate everything about you" by Three Days Grace. My persona is very rock-star-ish.
Doing this, of course, is a missed blessing. In one turn, I've gotten a lot of respect by some people; and others have completely despised me. It takes a lot of confidence and
knowing who you are 110%. I think that my confidence, knowing who I am, and being FT and on hormones for a long time all factor in to respect from doctors (as some doctors/gatekeepers might take doing drag as a form or regret). Luckily, my gatekeeper has worked with people like me in the past... we really have to prove ourselves, perhaps more so at times, because it's not very common. But the thing is that I know I'm a woman. I'm also a dyke. I'm also lot of things.
It's not for everyone, but it's a way that I can express a part of myself, be at peace with my past, and have a good time. It can be difficult to explain to some people, as some people -- no matter how much you blabber on about it -- don't get it and won't get it. Which is fine... it's just not for them.
Personally, I think it's made me a better person in the end, and that's all that matters, really, no matter how you do it.
--natalie
