After a three-year hiatus, RuPaul DragCon U.K. One of the biggest drag conventions in the world – returned to London this past weekend. The three-day event. Which drew an estimated 150 drag performers and thousands of fans of all ages from around. The world, has come as the art form has become embroiled in controversy in the United States.
Although drag has gained mainstream popularity across the United States. Thanks to the successful RuPaul Drag Race” franchise — critics have argued that children should not be exposed to it. And lawmakers across the United States have proposed bills to keep children away.
But many of those who attended RuPaul DragCon U.K. held at Exhibition Center London. Said drag, , generally creates a safe space where kids can enjoy over-the-top performances and, in some cases, freedom. themselves.
Diggory Alberts, an 11-year-old from the UK, says he lives. And breathes RuPaul Drag Race” and prides himself on perfecting. His dancing skills so he can excel as his drag personality, Ruby Rose. .
On the second day of the conference, while drag icon RuPaul was DJing. Digory showed off his best dance moves on stage — including death-drops and cartwheels. As hundreds of spectators cheered him on. He said the experience was “amazing,” especially because there were “a bunch of other young kids. Who are living and enjoying their lives here.”
Diggory, who attended the conference with her 25-year-old sister. Said she struggles with the idea that adults. And especially lawmakers, want to keep kids away from drag.
“You can be whoever you want to be,” she said after criticizing lawmakers. Who are trying to prevent minors from attending drag events.
Lady Camden, a drag performer and finalist on season 14 of RuPaul Drag Race.” Said she had no outlet to express herself when she was younger. And would have loved to access something like a DragCon event (also DragCons were New York and Los Angeles).
“I wish I’d let myself be gay and feminine when I was younger,” she said. “If I could go back in time and let myself play with Barbies and wear pink, I’d love to talk, love who I love.”
Many parents bring their children to DragCon U.K. not only. Because they are huge fans of the franchise. But also to expose their kids to the diversity and people of the industry firsthand.
“I want her to be able to accept people from all walks of life. And think in an open-minded way and embrace all diversity.” Said Trish, a Londoner who brought her 5-year-old daughter Maxine.
Daniel Gostling, who lives in Kent, England, brought his daughter Dorothy, 6, to the conference. He said there was “nothing graphic” about the art form.
“It’s about fun and expression and love and equality, and that’s so important for kids to know,” she said.
“This is wrong,” Dorothy Gostling said of the proposed bill. “You can’t stop pulling!”
Gemini, an 18-year-old drag performer based in Surrey, England. Who has been practicing the art form since the age of 12, says drag is “empowering”. The teenager, who attended DragonCon UK’s kids fashion show on Sunday in a pink velor tracksuit. Has drawn on drag to help her overcome emotional difficulties and boost her confidence.
“As a young gay person in school, you’re often bullied. But for me, the pull and stuff helped me through it and made me think, ‘I can be me, and I can be whoever I want,'” she said.
Kitty Scott Claus, a contestant on the third season of RuPaul Drag Race U.K.” Summed up the sentiment that permeated the convention.
“Drag is for everyone, and it should be enjoyed by everyone,” he said. “If you enjoy drag, it doesn’t matter your age.”
