Masters of Drag
In this digital series, New York's sweetest drag diva Peppermint tells the story of pioneering American drag artists. In the process, she demonstrates how drag is a performance art form that has thrived in this country for generations, entertaining LGBTQ+ and general audiences alike, and providing the former with an important outlet of self-expression.
William Dorsey Swann: The first "Queen of Drag"
Born into slavery, Swann was the first known person to identify as a “Queen of Drag.”
William Dorsey Swann: The first "Queen of Drag"
Crystal Labeija: The Queen Who Reinvented Ball Culture
Crystal was a proud Black trans woman, a drag mother and, a pageant girl.
Crystal Labeija: The Queen Who Reinvented Ball Culture
Jean Malin: Queen of the Pansies
Jean Malin was one of the first openly gay performers in the Prohibition era.
Jean Malin: Queen of the Pansies
Flawless Sabrina: Queer Icon and Star of 'The Queen'
She was an artist, activist, gay mother and mentor to hundreds of queer youth.
Flawless Sabrina: Queer Icon and Star of 'The Queen'
Joan Jett Blakk: The drag queen who ran for president
She ran for president in lipstick, heels and eyeshadow.
Joan Jett Blakk: The drag queen who ran for president
Jose Sarria: Legendary Drag Queen and Queer Activist
Sarria was a legend of the San Francisco drag scene.
Jose Sarria: Legendary Drag Queen and Queer Activist
Gladys Bentley: Drag King of the Harlem Renaissance
Gladys Bentley was a musician and drag king who was a part of the Harlem Renaissance.
Gladys Bentley: Drag King of the Harlem Renaissance
Julian Eltinge: Female Impersonator of the Vaudeville Era
Julian Eltinge was a female impersonator who was once America's highest paid performer.