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What Do You Call a Woman Who Dresses in Drag?

Published in Female Drag Performers 3 mins read

A woman who dresses in drag is commonly referred to as an AFAB queen, a diva queen, or a hyper queen. They are also broadly known as drag queens.

Understanding Women in Drag

The art of drag is a vibrant form of entertainment where performers often create exaggerated personas through elaborate makeup, costumes, and mannerisms. While drag queens are traditionally associated with male performers, women and non-binary individuals assigned female at birth also participate actively and prominently in the drag scene.

Key Terminology for Female Drag Performers

Several terms specifically recognize women who perform in drag, distinguishing them while still affirming their place within the broader drag community.

  • AFAB Queen: This term stands for "Assigned Female At Birth Queen." It refers to a drag queen who is a woman or a non-binary person who was assigned female at birth. It highlights their biological sex assigned at birth while recognizing their identity as a drag queen.
  • Diva Queen: This term emphasizes a strong, powerful, and often glamorous stage persona. It's used for female drag performers who embody a commanding presence and exceptional artistry.
  • Hyper Queen: Similar to "diva queen," "hyper queen" often suggests an amplified, intense, or highly stylized approach to female drag performance.

These performers are integral to the diversity of the drag world, showcasing that drag is an art form accessible and expressive for individuals of all gender identities.

Performance Style and Presence

Female drag performers, whether known as AFAB queens, diva queens, or hyper queens, typically present themselves with the same artistic flair and techniques seen in other drag queen performances. Their shows often feature:

  • Intricate Makeup: Exaggerated and creative makeup designs that transform their appearance.
  • Elaborate Costumes: Glamorous, theatrical, and often custom-made outfits.
  • Dynamic Performances: High-energy acts that can include lip-syncing, dancing, comedy, and live vocals.
  • Distinct Personas: The creation of unique stage characters with their own names, backstories, and performance styles.

Their artistic style and techniques are generally indistinguishable from those of male or transgender female drag queens, contributing equally to the richness and excitement of the drag scene.

Comparison of Terms

Term Description
AFAB Queen A drag queen who is a woman or a non-binary person assigned female at birth.
Diva Queen A term for a female drag queen, often emphasizing a powerful, glamorous, or commanding stage persona.
Hyper Queen A term for a female drag queen, sometimes implying an exaggerated, intense, or highly stylized performance.
Drag Queen The overarching term for any performer who uses drag as an art form, regardless of their gender identity.