In this episode of Talking Hospitality, we delve into the fascinating world of drag and what lessons the hospitality industry can learn from them.

Summary

The Covid-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the drag queen community, with performers losing their primary source of income.

Many drag queens turned to digital platforms to perform for their fans, but it wasn't always enough to make ends meet.

As the pandemic continued, drag queens found new ways to adapt, such as starting their own businesses or hosting outdoor events. The drag scene has evolved over the years, especially with the influence of RuPaul's Drag Race.

During lockdown, drag queens used social media to create content and connect with their audience. Advice for those going through difficult times includes finding joy every day, surrounding yourself with good people, and maintaining a positive attitude.

Whilst lockdown seems a distant memory, how are Drag Performers managing now?

To help answer this question hosts Timothy R Andrews, Tracey Rashid, and Sarah Kettel explore the resilience and creativity of drag artists and the challenges they face.

They are joined by the effervescent drag performers Mary O'Kart, Stephanie Von Clitz, and Linda Bacardi in one of our most of the wall episodes yet.

Takeaways

• The Covid-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the drag queen community, with performers losing their primary source of income.
• Drag queens turned to digital platforms to perform for their fans, but it wasn't always enough to make ends meet.
• Drag queens found new ways to adapt during the pandemic, such as starting their own businesses or hosting outdoor events.
• The drag scene has evolved over the years, especially with the influence of RuPaul's Drag Race.
• During lockdown, drag queens used social media to create content and connect with their audience.
• Advice for those going through difficult times includes finding joy every day, surrounding yourself with good people, and maintaining a positive attitude.

Titles

• The Evolution of the Drag Scene
• Using Social Media to Connect with Fans

Sound Bites

• "The Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the drag queen community."
• "Drag queens found new ways to adapt, such as starting their own businesses or hosting outdoor events."
• "Drag started as a necessity centuries ago when plays needed female characters, but they were played by men."

Chapters

00:00 The Impact of Covid-19 on the Drag Queen Community

02:05 Adapting and Finding New Ways to Perform

05:43 The Evolution of the Drag Scene

08:06 Using Social Media to Connect with Fans

11:56 Surviving and Continuing to Perform During Lockdown

20:50 Supporting local drag artists

25:12 The power of drag in bringing joy and inclusivity

26:07 Advice for those facing difficult situations