Drag performance - Kitty Tray

One of Nottingham's most popular drag queens, Kitty Tray, will be in the Dining Hall from 5.30pm onwards, performing and interacting with students. 

Drag Shows and Be A Drag Superstar workshop.

Drag shows hold significant cultural and historical importance within the LGBTQIA+ community, serving as a form of empowerment, self-expression, and resistance against societal norms. Here's a look at the significance of drag shows and the history of drag as empowerment for the LGBTQIA+ community:

1. Visibility and Representation: Drag shows provide a platform for LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly those who are gender nonconforming or identify as transgender, to express themselves authentically and visibly. By donning extravagant costumes, makeup, and performances, drag queens and kings challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes, affirming the diversity of gender expression within the community.
2. Celebration of Creativity and Artistry: Drag is an art form that celebrates creativity, performance, and theatricality. Drag performers often showcase their talents through lip-syncing, dance, comedy, and fashion, captivating audiences with their charisma and charisma. Drag shows serve as spaces where LGBTQIA+ artists can showcase their skills, express themselves creatively, and celebrate their identities.
3. Cultural and Historical Legacy: Drag has a rich cultural and historical legacy within the LGBTQIA+ community, dating back to underground drag balls and cabarets in the early 20th century. These spaces provided a refuge for LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly those of colour and transgender individuals, who faced discrimination and violence in mainstream society. Drag shows became a means of survival, empowerment, and community building during times of oppression.
4. Resistance and Subversion: Drag has long been a form of resistance against societal norms and expectations regarding gender and orientation. By exaggerating and subverting gender stereotypes through performance, drag queens and kings challenge the gender binary and assert their right to self-determination. Drag shows become acts of defiance and liberation, reclaiming spaces traditionally denied to LGBTQIA+ individuals.
5. Social and Political Commentary: Drag shows often incorporate elements of social and political commentary, addressing issues such as LGBTQIA+ rights, equality, and social justice. Drag performers use their platform to raise awareness, challenge prejudice, and advocate for change within the community and society at large. Drag shows become spaces for education, dialogue, and activism, empowering audiences to confront and dismantle systems of oppression.
6. Community Building and Support: Drag shows serve as important community-building events within the LGBTQIA+ community, bringing together people of diverse backgrounds and identities in celebration and solidarity. These events provide opportunities for LGBTQIA+ individuals to connect, socialize, and find support within a welcoming and inclusive environment. Drag performers often serve as role models and mentors, offering guidance and inspiration to younger generations.

In summary, drag shows hold profound significance within the LGBTQIA+ community as spaces of empowerment, creativity, resistance, and community building. By celebrating the artistry, resilience, and diversity of drag performers, these shows affirm the visibility, pride, and strength of LGBTQIA+ individuals, while also challenging societal norms and advocating for equality and justice.

Location: Lenton and Wortley Dining Hall
Date: Wednesday 21 February 2024
Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm

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