A History of Drag | Panto and Shakespere

Growing up, Drag Queen Misty Monique thought it was a bit unfair that at the weddings she went to, men wore suits while women could wear a variety of outfits and costumes.  Discovering drag opened a whole new world of expression and also a means to entertain.   Misty heads to the stage at Smallhythe Place, Kent, where she uncovers the history of drag and its roots in British theatre and pantomime. And she even puts on a show of her own.   To find out more about Smallhythe Place please visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/smallhythe-place   Thank you for listening to Series 7 of the National Trust Podcast. Look out for special episodes soon. And we’ll be launching a new series in early 2024.    If you’d like to get in touch with feedback, or have a story connected with the National Trust, please contact us at [email protected]  Auto Generated Additional Information Introduction: - The episode explores the history of drag and its connection to the LGBTQ+ community. - The host, Misty Monique, visits Smallhythe Place in the Kent countryside to learn about the history of drag and put on a special drag performance. Main Topics Discussed: 1. Drag Performances Throughout History: - Drag performances have existed for centuries worldwide, with each country having its own style and story to tell. - In the UK, drag has been a mainstay of British entertainment on stage, in cinema, and on TV. - Drag shows can be seen live in theaters, bars, and clubs, as well as through TV and streaming platforms. - Misty Monique performs regularly in an old 17th-century barn in Cheltenham, and she explores the idea of bringing drag to a more rural setting at Smallhythe Place. 2. Drag in Theatre: - In Shakespeare's time, women were forbidden from performing on stage, so men and boys played all the female roles. - Gender play, disguise, and self-expression through cross-dressing have always been important to the LGBTQ+ community in British theatre. 3. Smallhythe Place and Drag History: - Smallhythe Place is a Tudor building that houses a collection curated by Ellen Terry's daughter, including costumes and jewels. - Ellen Terry and her colleagues would cross-dress both on and off stage, considering clothing to be genderless. - The house features an exhibition on how Edy, Tony, and Chris lived, as well as a costume room with over 200 costumes, some designed by couturiers. - Vesta Tilley, a male impersonator, was a prominent figure in the 1900s. 4. Drag Show at Smallhythe Place: - Misty Monique plans to put on the first drag show at the Smallhythe Place theatre. - The costumes for drag shows have become more elaborate over time, reflecting changing tastes and trends. - The show day arrives, and Misty Monique and her drag partner, Miss Demeanor McCall, prepare for their sold-out event. Key Takeaways: - Drag performances have a rich history worldwide, with the UK being a significant hub for drag entertainment. - Cross-dressing and gender play have always been important to the LGBTQ+ community in British theatre. - Smallhythe Place showcases the history of drag through its collection of costumes and exhibits. - Misty Monique's drag show at Smallhythe Place is a celebration of drag as a form of self-expression and entertainment. Guests: - Misty Monique (Host) - Dr. Sophie Duncan (Theatre Historian, Magdalene College, Oxford University ) - Susannah Mayor (Smallhythe Place Curator) - Simon Sladen (Pantomime Historian, V&A Museum) Additional Information: - The episode features discussions, interviews, and on-site visits to explore the history of drag and its significance in British theatre. - Misty Monique's drag show at Smallhythe Place is a culmination of her exploration of drag history and her personal journey as a performer. - The episode highlights the inclusive nature of drag and its ability to bring joy and entertainment to diverse audiences.