Female impersonators have long been popular on the English stage. Would it surprise you to know that in Shakespeare´s time, female parts were actually played by young men? Today we have their more flamboyant descendants in the form of drag queens. I love them! They are beautiful, entertaining and full of character. Here are some of the most famous drag queens and female impersonators.
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Divine
Divine is without a doubt the most wonderful female impersonator ever. She appeared in many of John Waters´ less mainstream movies (not for the fainthearted), and also had success as a club singer. Sure, Divine was not the most glamorous figure, but if you look at her and just see a fat guy dressed up, then you are completely missing the point of what she was about. Listen to the above song and you might just get it. Much missed.
RuPaul
You just have to love a six-foot drag queen with attitude! RuPaul shows us what glamour is all about. You may be familiar with her through the show ´RuPaul´s Drag Race´, which is full of tantrums, false eyelashes and enough sequins to sink the United States. She´s probably the most famous drag queen, and always looks simply stunning.
Frequently asked questions
Oh, this article is a gem! It showcases some amazing talent like RuPaul, Dame Edna, and Divine. You'll love it!
They're just so entertaining and full of life! They break boundaries, create art, and often have the best sense of humor. Plus, their performances are something you must see!
Great question! While many are performers, they can also be activists, singers, and even authors. They're multi-talented individuals who make a big impact!
Well, all drag queens are female impersonators, but not all female impersonators identify as drag queens. Some focus more on comedy or acting, while drag queens often perform in more elaborate, stylized shows.
YouTube is your best friend here! Search for names like Dame Edna or RuPaul, and you'll get an endless stream of fabulous performances. Enjoy the show!
Dame Edna Everage
Female impersonators sometimes create a character for comic effect. The marvellous Dame Edna initially began life as a dowdy Australian housewife, but morphed into the unstoppable Dame. Known for her extraordinary glasses, lilac hair and catchphrase ´Hello Possums!´, Dame Edna is now officially retired, but legends never die …
Dame Edna Everage, brought to life by Australian comedian Barry Humphries, was more than just a fictional character; she became an international icon. Flaunting her gladioli and delivering zingers with sharp wit, Dame Edna represented an amalgam of satire and showbiz, dazzling audiences with her larger-than-life persona. Humphries' alter ego toured the world, charming royals and commoners alike, and even had her own talk show. Despite announcing her farewell tour, the essence of her indomitable spirit continues to resonate in the world of comedy and beyond. Dah-lings, her legacy is as shimmering as her sequined gowns.
Danny La Rue
The late Danny La Rue is probably not well known outside the UK, but is one of the old-school female impersonators. Arguably he helped popularise female impersonation and make it mainstream, with countless appearances on TV in the 60s and 70s.
Danny La Rue was a British drag queen and female impersonator who rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s. He was known for his glamorous and comedic performances, often impersonating famous female celebrities such as Marlene Dietrich and Elizabeth Taylor. La Rue's success helped to bring drag into the mainstream and paved the way for future drag queens and female impersonators. He also broke barriers by performing in traditional male-dominated spaces, such as the London Palladium. La Rue's legacy continues to inspire and influence the drag community, and he is remembered as one of the pioneers of modern drag performance.
Florence & Emily
TV has definitely seen its fair share of female impersonators, and in comedy Little Britain the comedians include among their characters Florence and Emily, who try to pass themselves off as women. Unfortunately they are the world´s least convincing transvestites! Watch and you´ll soon see why …
Florence and Emily are two of the most iconic drag queens and female impersonators to ever grace the small screen. The characters, played by the British comedians Matt Lucas and David Walliams, first made their appearance on the popular sketch comedy show Little Britain.
The two characters, Florence and Emily, are portrayed as two of the world's least convincing transvestites. With their exaggerated makeup and outlandish wigs, they often draw attention to themselves in the most comedic ways. Despite their comedic portrayal, the characters have become beloved by fans of the show for their unique personalities and their ability to make light of a situation.
Florence and Emily have also made appearances in other media, including the Little Britain Live show, which toured the UK in 2009. The characters have also been featured in various books, including The Little Britain Book of the Year and Little Britain: The Game.
Florence and Emily have become two of the most beloved drag queens and female impersonators in the world. They are a reminder that drag is not just about comedy, but about embracing one's own unique identity. As such, they have become an important symbol of freedom and acceptance for many people.
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Lily Savage
Following in the footsteps of her illustrious predecessors came Lily Savage, the acid-tongued creation of comedian and presenter Paul o´Grady. Sadly, he´s now retired Lily, who truly seemed to have a life of her own, and took no prisoners. Bring back Lily!
Lily Savage, created by comedian and presenter Paul o´Grady, was a beloved drag queen and female impersonator. She was known for her acerbic wit and no-nonsense attitude. Her performances were often outrageous and memorable, with her signature catchphrase “Hello, darlings!” becoming a hallmark of the character.
Lily Savage was a popular figure in the drag and female impersonation scene, and she enjoyed a successful career on television and in the theater. She appeared on the British comedy series "Blankety Blank" and was the subject of her own show, "The Lily Savage Show". She also starred in the West End production of "Grease" and was a frequent guest on "The Paul O'Grady Show".
Lily Savage was a beloved figure in the LGBTQ+ community, and she was an inspiration to many. She was an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and she used her platform to speak out against discrimination and prejudice. Though Paul o´Grady has since retired the character, Lily Savage will always be remembered for her iconic wit and her dedication to the LGBTQ+ community.
The Girls in ´Priscilla, Queen of the Desert´
There are plenty of famous drag queens to be found in cinema. If you have not seen ´Priscilla´ then it´s time you did. It´s a very entertaining film about two drag queens and a transsexual performing shows in Australia, with wonderful performances. Now a VERY exuberant musical!
It’s a very entertaining film about two drag queens and a transsexual performing shows in Australia, with wonderful performances. Now a VERY exuberant musical! Priscilla offers a wild ride full of laughs, glitter, and unforgettable moments. The dynamic trio, Bernadette, Mitzi, and Felicia, embark on a journey that showcases their resilience and charisma. The film’s blend of comedy, drama, and stunning costumes makes it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the art of drag. The character arcs and the heartwarming storylines will leave you both entertained and inspired, reminding us of the power of self-expression and acceptance.
Lola in ´Kinky Boots´
If you think that the British film industry now consists of nothing more than low-budget gangster films, then search out this witty and warm film. One of the main characters, Lola, is a drag queen, and it truly is a wonderful performance. Entertaining from start to finish.
I love drag queens for the way they celebrate the feminine, their exuberant characters and their wonderful outfits. Wouldn´t we all like a bit of that confidence! Female impersonators have always been a part of stage and screen, and there are countless more drag queens performing in clubs everywhere. Can you think of any other famous drag queens?
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Drag queens have been part of the entertainment industry for centuries, from the days of vaudeville to modern day performances. Drag queens are typically male performers who dress up in women's clothing and makeup and perform in clubs and other entertainment venues. They often perform lip-syncing or singing, as well as comedy and other acts. In addition to their performance, drag queens are known for their outrageous costumes and makeup, often featuring heavy eyelashes, bright colors, and glitter.
Drag queens have been portrayed in films, television shows, and plays, such as the musical Kinky Boots, which features the character Lola. Lola is a drag queen who helps a struggling shoe factory by creating a line of gender-bending footwear. The film won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Drag queens have also been featured in reality television shows such as RuPaul's Drag Race, which has aired for over a decade and has become a popular show around the world. The show features drag queens competing in challenges to become "America's Next Drag Superstar." The show also features celebrity guest judges, including Lady Gaga and Michelle Visage.
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