Drag Queen Names

Our resident blogger Desiree Sweet recently posted an article entitled “Secret Identities”. However applicable to all, let’s take this opportunity to divulge into the world known exclusively by the LGBT community, men who cross-dress, and their friends: Drag Queens.

There are, of course, many famous drag queens of past and present. From those who paved the way like Dame Edna Everage, Margo Howard-Howard, and Divine to Ru Paul and gender bending myspace sensation Jeffree Starr; the evolution of drag has been a progressive one. Still, without such stylish, well crafted stage-names, dressing in women’s clothing could not have come so far!

While it’s not as scientific an approach as choosing your porn star name, there are still some rules that can be followed. As with most beginnings, the starting point should include sufficient amounts of beer, wine, or spirits. A refresher viewing of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert or To Wong Fu might help. Some may recommend the Queen of the Night music video, but don’t be fooled by Whitney Houston in a bad wig.

Drag Names consist of 3 main types, according to my friend Wikipedia. The first are satirical plays on words like Peaches Christ or Candis Cayne. My favorite that I’m sure I didn’t write but like to pretend I did is “Anita Labotomy.” The second type relates to glamour, extravagance, and even royalty. Dame Edna Everage, and The Lady Chablis come to mind. My friend Eliot came up with “Petifore Seasons” the other night. The third type generally has cultural or historical significance or an in-depth and usually familiar backstory. Ricky Reeves and Divine fall into this scheme. My friend Brian coined the offensive and clever “Krystal Nacht” as his drag persona.

But don’t let Wikipedia hinder your creativity. There really are no rules! Try experimenting by drinking more alcohol, as I did for this article. “Miss” is always a good place to start, but don’t get stuck in it. “Miss Appropriation”, “Miss Behavin’”, and “Miss Take” are old Queens, honey, and they’re not getting any younger! Capitalize on celebrities and try “Britney Rears”. Mess it up and try “Sarah Jessica Raphael”. Create an involved backstory about how you’re carrying the baby of the bell boy you met for that one night at the Sheraton, and voila, girl – “Uniqua Hotelbelboy”!

What’s your Drag Queen Name?

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