A Hobby or a Job?

Transforming your Drag from an occaisional fun night out or a one-off show into a career is a serious step to take. For one thing if you want longevity, the job will be worth investing earnings back into at first - not only into a very high quality wig, for example, but also a proper wig cap, and some care products that you can use to extend it's lifespan. A look can be repetitive; you can be seen 10 times in the same getup, but as long as you have fresh acts the look will be secondary. A lot of Drag is character work, so a recognisable look can even work in your favour!

But if you are planning on repeating an outfit - or expecting a long career in the industry - maintaining it is key. Clean your lace, hang up your garments (in the sun if need be, to avast them of odours). Spot clean your clothes and polish your leathers - or moisturise them as the case may be. You need to be dependable to make it far in Drag, so make sure to appear presentably and follow proper etiquette (including while networking). It can be helpful to regularly perform at open-mics and show up in support to Drag Bingo/Trivia nights - if you are lucky, someone local will give you a guide to to doing Drag in your city. It will be through them, or your own leap of faith, that you will move into a 'producing' role - hosting often comes first, but sometimes they happen simulaneously. Someone may ask you to co-host, fill in for them for a show or two, or even retire. For tips on hosting, visit this page.

You may have to strike out on your own and conceptualise, market, and produce an event yourself. By the time you are producing, it would be pertinent to have an ABN, at least a year of consistent performances under your belt (roughly one per month), acquaintances with several other local artists, and a far reach through your chosen marketing method. If you are planning to drum up ticket sales through Instagram, for example, it would be worth it to be at least 100 followers in. Need tips on producing? Go here.