Drag as a Long-Standing British Tradition

Drag in British culture has a long history, stretching back to the Victorian era. It has entertained audiences from various backgrounds, including queer and straight individuals, conservatives and progressives, and people from all walks of life. Drag performances have been popularized through music halls, theater, film, radio, and other media platforms. While initially associated with male impersonation, drag is now considered a type of performance that comments on gender and can be more widely defined. From the late 19th to the mid-20th century, celebrated performers like Dan Leno and Arthur Lucan elevated the dam character in pantomime, imbuing it with not only slapstick humor but also pathos. Their artistic portrayals challenged stereotypes and showcased the complexity of dam characters. Throughout the years, drag has been influenced by and reflected cultural trends, such as the rise of theater, the growth of the musical, the dawn of film, and the emergence of radio. It became a mainstream form of entertainment accessible to diverse audiences.