For those looking to explore different facets of themselves through performance, Yorkton Pride has a new workshop that promises to open your mind. The Yorkton Drag Performance Workshop is an innovative new program allowing people who identify with any gender to embrace themselves through stage.
Mya Fantasy, who is conducting the workshops, explained the history.
“Drag, we we call it now, actually has its roots in medieval times,” she said.
“Historically, women were not allowed to play the parts of women. Even going to the 1500s, when Shakespeare’s plays were first being performed, the roles of women were actually played by boys. Acting was considered sinful and improper. Of course, now we know better – and we still get to have the fun of performance.”
Adora Diamond, who also conducts the workshops with Mya, agreed.
“The power of drag is finding and celebrating power in femininity in a world that, traditionally, in the past has seen the concept of ‘feminine’ as being ‘weak’.”
You’ll learn how to develop a performance, your character, how to pick your outfits, and, laughs Mya, “How to accessorize! We’ll teach you how to deal with make-up...pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know.”
Laura Budd, who runs Yorkton Pride, points out that drag has a long and storied history, with an endless amount of opportunities for styles and looks.
“There’s all different styles of drag,” said Budd. “There are no rules, and there is no right or wrong. It is about strengthening feminine identity. That identity could take many forms; whatever means the most to you. You could develop yourself as an identity with your performance and look...or, it could be a character that allows you to more freely express yourself. We have an extremely culturally diverse community in Saskatchewan. We celebrate each other.”
Drag performances have also raised tens of thousands of dollars for charitable causes through performances. “Over $25 000,” Laura beams.
If you’d like to try it yourself, contact Laura Budd at (306) 795-5044 or laura@moosejawpride.ca. The workshop is held at the Yorkton Boys and Girls Club, located at 54c Smith St. West.
