Drag Performer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the vibrant world of entertainment, the spotlight on drag performers has never been brighter.

As society grows more accepting, the demand for talented individuals who can creatively express, embody and challenge our notions of gender intensifies.

But let’s strip off the sequins and wigs: What’s truly expected from a drag performer?

Whether you are:

• A performer seeking to understand the essence of this role,
• A talent scout outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the artistry behind drag performances,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable drag performer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or talent sites.

Let’s strike a pose and dive right into it.

Drag Performer Duties and Responsibilities

Drag Performers are artists who use clothing, makeup, and performance to play with traditional gender roles, often performing in theatrical shows, nightclubs, and special events.

They combine skills in acting, singing, dancing, and comedy to entertain audiences.

The duties and responsibilities of a drag performer include:

• Developing a unique persona and character for performances
• Designing, creating, or sourcing costumes and props for performances
• Applying makeup and styling wigs to transform their appearance
• Performing various acts including lip syncing, singing, dancing, and comedy routines
• Engaging with audience members to create a lively and interactive performance
• Rehearsing and memorizing scripts, songs, and routines for performances
• Promoting their shows on social media and other platforms
• Attending events and networking within the drag community
• Maintaining a high level of physical fitness and stamina for demanding performances
• Adhering to all health and safety regulations during performances

 

Drag Performer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a creative and dynamic Drag Performer to entertain and engage our patrons.

In this role, you will be expected to perform a variety of acts ranging from singing, dancing, and comedy routines.

The Drag Performer will be responsible for developing their own costumes and stage persona, while demonstrating a deep understanding of the art of drag.

Our ideal candidate is a seasoned performer with a passion for the craft and a flair for theatricality.

 

Responsibilities

• Create and develop a unique and engaging stage persona
• Develop, rehearse, and perform various acts including but not limited to lip-syncing, dancing, and comedy routines
• Design and create your own costumes and makeup looks
• Engage with the audience and promote positive audience participation
• Maintain high levels of energy and enthusiasm during performances
• Participate in promotional events and public appearances as needed
• Follow all safety guidelines and respect all equipment and props

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a performer, preferably in drag
• Exceptional singing, dancing, and comedic skills
• Ability to design and create unique costumes and makeup looks
• Excellent communication and audience engagement skills
• Ability to maintain high energy levels during performances
• Flexible schedule, including availability for evening and weekend performances

 

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Opportunity to express creativity and entertain
• Chance to become an influential figure in the drag community
• Positive, inclusive and diverse working environment
• Opportunities for career growth and development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Drag Performer
• Work Environment: This role involves working in a lively performance environment, often late into the night. Travel may be required for performances at different venues.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Performance Director or Manager.
• Salary: Salary varies depending on individual performances and events.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if travel is required)
• Employment Type: This role is typically part-time, with the possibility for full-time employment based on performance and availability.
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our team. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a portfolio or video of your performances, and a cover letter outlining your experience and passion for drag to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Drag Performer Do?

Drag performers are entertainers who typically cross-dress, often for the purpose of challenging gender norms, providing commentary on identity, and offering entertainment through performance art.

They can be of any gender or sexual orientation.

They design and create their own costumes, often requiring skills in sewing, makeup, and hairstyling.

These costumes are typically extravagant and often play with exaggerated versions of femininity or masculinity.

Drag performers also develop their own characters, complete with a stage name and unique personality traits.

This can involve building a backstory and portraying specific attitudes and behaviours while in character.

They often perform in venues such as nightclubs, bars, and special events.

Performances can include lip-syncing, live singing, dancing, and comedy.

They engage with the audience, often with humor and wit, to create a captivating performance.

In addition to performances, drag performers often participate in photoshoots and promotional events.

With the rise of social media, many drag performers also create content for platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to reach a wider audience.

Drag performers often take part in competitions, locally, nationally, and internationally, where they showcase their talents and compete against other drag performers.

These competitions can involve a range of challenges, from costume design to performance skills.

Finally, many drag performers engage in community outreach and advocacy work, particularly in relation to LGBTQ+ rights.

This can involve participating in Pride parades, charity events, and awareness campaigns.

 

Drag Performer Qualifications and Skills

An accomplished drag performer should possess qualifications and skills that align with the demands of the role, such as:

• Exceptional performance skills to captivate audiences with entertaining and engaging performances.
• Creativity and artistic ability to design and implement unique costumes, makeup looks, and performance concepts.
• Interpersonal skills for interacting with diverse audiences, event organizers, and fellow performers in a respectful and professional manner.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to execute demanding performances, often involving dancing and/or lip-syncing, while wearing elaborate costumes and high heels.
• Communication skills to effectively collaborate with event coordinators, communicate performance requirements, and interact with fans and followers.
• Critical thinking skills to adapt performances to different venues and audience types, troubleshoot performance issues, and continuously improve the performance quality.
• Resilience and adaptability to handle the changing demands of the role, frequent traveling, and potentially late-night performances.
• Knowledge of the history and culture of drag to respect traditions and contribute to the evolution of the art form.

 

Drag Performer Experience Requirements

Drag performers typically begin their journey in the world of drag as amateurs, experimenting with makeup, costumes, and character development in a casual or hobbyist setting.

This initial period of exploration and self-teaching is critical to developing a unique drag persona and style.

Many drag performers gain more formal experience through participating in local drag shows, open-mic nights, or drag queen pageants.

These events give them a chance to hone their skills in front of an audience, gain performance experience, and learn from other more experienced drag performers.

Drag performers with 1 to 3 years of experience are typically considered intermediate level.

At this stage, they may have mastered basic performance skills, developed a strong stage presence, and started to build a reputation within their local drag community.

Those with more than 3 years of experience are often considered seasoned performers.

These individuals have likely spent considerable time perfecting their craft, have a well-developed drag persona and aesthetic, and may have a strong following within the drag community.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have branched out into hosting or organizing local drag events, mentoring less experienced performers, or even competing on a national or international level.

They may also have started to gain recognition outside of the drag community, such as through appearances in media or at mainstream events.

 

Drag Performer Education and Training Requirements

Drag performers typically don’t require a formal education, as the role is heavily talent and skills-based, and focuses more on creativity, performance, and personality.

However, a background in theater or performing arts, drama, or dance can be beneficial.

Courses or degrees in these fields can help performers understand the nuances of stage presence, costume design, and character development.

Knowledge in makeup artistry is also vital for a drag performer.

Many artists are self-taught, but attending cosmetology schools or makeup artistry courses can provide a structured way of acquiring these skills.

While not required, some drag performers may opt to participate in workshops or classes specifically focused on drag performance.

These offer an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of drag, explore different styles of performance, and gain practical experience.

A key part of the training process for a drag performer is often an informal apprenticeship, where less experienced performers learn from and work with seasoned drag queens or kings.

This often includes performing as part of a drag show or troupe.

Ultimately, practice, perseverance, and a passion for performance are crucial requirements for success in this role.

 

Drag Performer Salary Expectations

The average income for a Drag Performer can greatly vary depending on the popularity and frequency of their performances.

On average, a Drag Performer could potentially earn anywhere between $30 – $100 (USD) per show, with more established and well-known performers commanding higher rates or percentages of door sales.

These earnings may vary based on location, the performer’s experience, their reputation in the industry, and the venue of performance.

Additionally, many Drag Performers may also receive tips during their performances which can significantly increase their earnings.

 

Drag Performer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a drag performer need?

A drag performer needs various skills including singing, dancing, acting, and comedy.

In addition to these performance skills, a drag performer must also possess makeup and fashion design skills to create their unique characters.

Good communication and interpersonal skills are also necessary for interacting with audiences and networking in the industry.

 

Do drag performers need any formal education?

Formal education is not a requirement for a drag performer.

However, attending classes or workshops in acting, singing, dancing, makeup, and fashion can greatly enhance a performer’s skills.

Some performers may choose to pursue a degree in performing arts to hone their craft.

 

What should you look for in a drag performer resume?

A drag performer’s resume should highlight their experience in performing arts, such as roles in theater or film, performances in drag shows, and any awards or accolades they’ve received.

It should also indicate their skills in areas like singing, dancing, and comedy.

You may also want to look for evidence of creativity and versatility in their character development and performance styles.

 

What qualities make a good drag performer?

A good drag performer has a strong stage presence and the ability to captivate an audience.

They are highly creative, coming up with unique characters and performances.

Resilience is also key, as the world of drag can be competitive and demanding.

Additionally, a good drag performer is respectful of the history and culture of drag and is committed to supporting and uplifting their fellow performers.

 

Is it challenging to become a professional drag performer?

Becoming a professional drag performer can be challenging due to the high level of competition in the industry and the physical and emotional demands of the job.

However, with talent, perseverance, and a supportive network, it is certainly possible to build a successful career as a drag performer.

 

Conclusion

And there it is.

Today, we took a peek behind the glittery curtain to reveal what being a drag performer truly entails.

Guess what?

It’s not just about lip-syncing and dance moves.

It’s about creating an unforgettable spectacle, one sequin at a time.

With our indispensable drag performer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into the spotlight.

But why halt your journey here?

Take a further step into the dazzling world with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool to create meticulous job listings or polish your resume to a dazzling shine.

Remember:

Every sequin, every move, every moment, contributes to the grand performance.

Let’s create that spectacle. Together.

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