RuPaul’s Drag Race UK has undeniably transformed the landscape of drag culture, propelling it into mainstream awareness. La Voix, a notable contestant on the show’s sixth series, offers a unique perspective on its significant impact.
Reflecting on her journey, La Voix shares how the show has broadened the audience for drag, bringing in people from different backgrounds who might not have otherwise experienced it.
The Rise in Popularity of Drag
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK has played a pivotal role in revitalising the world of drag. According to La Voix, a contestant on the sixth series, the show has brought drag performances to audiences who might have never attended such events before. This increased visibility has led to a broader acceptance and appreciation of drag culture.
La Voix commented on the show’s impact, stating, “This is a massive resurgence thanks to that show. It is appealing to people who have never seen a drag show, who never dreamed of going to a drag show, but it has opened their eyes to something that is absolute fun.” Her words resonate with how mainstream media can influence societal perceptions.
The Experience on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK
Describing her experience on the show, La Voix mentioned it was both exhilarating and terrifying. She humorously noted her initial confusion, “I thought it was Bargain Hunt I was applying for.” Despite her apprehensions, La Voix embraced the challenge and found great joy in participating.
“It was such fun, but absolutely petrifying, it was the most petrifying thing I’ve ever done,” she admitted. The combination of fear and excitement encapsulates the unique pressures and thrills of being in the spotlight on such a popular show.
The Evolution of Drag Audiences
In her performances, La Voix has observed a significant change in the demographics of her audience. The excitement generated by the show has attracted diverse groups, not just those from the LGBTQ+ community.
“People think it’s going to be predominantly a gay community audience, it’s not,” she shared. This diversification points to the broader cultural shift that drag has undergone, transforming into an art form appreciated by a wider audience.
La Voix’s remarks reflect the universal appeal of drag performances. She noted, “Whether they’re truckers, miners, butchers or farmers – they are the ones that come out having had a better night than their wives who booked the ticket.” This shift in audience demographics underscores the growing inclusivity of drag shows.
Global Touring and Performances
Originally from Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham, La Voix has taken her drag performances worldwide. She has performed on more than 80 cruise ships, bringing her art to a global audience. This international exposure has further broadened the reach of drag culture.
Her touring schedule includes regular performances in pantomimes across various locations, including Aylesbury and High Wycombe. Such tours highlight the increasing demand for drag entertainment in different regions.
Rise in Drag’s Mainstream Acceptance
La Voix has credited shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race for the heightened mainstream acceptance of drag. She highlighted the transient nature of drag popularity, mentioning, “There’s these little windows where [drag] has been really popular, then it goes underground for a little while.” This cyclical nature was disrupted by the sustained popularity driven by the show.
The visibility provided by television and social media platforms has created an environment where drag can thrive continually. This sustained visibility contributes to a more stable and lasting acceptance of drag performers.
Future of Drag
As drag continues to gain momentum, performers like La Voix remain optimistic about its future. The increased visibility and acceptance of drag are likely to foster even greater creativity and innovation within the community.
La Voix’s positive outlook on the future of drag underscores the potential for continued growth and mainstream integration. Her experiences reflect a broader trend towards diversity and inclusion in entertainment.
The influence of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK on drag culture is evident through the experiences and observations of performers like La Voix. The show’s ability to attract diverse audiences has contributed to the mainstream acceptance and appreciation of drag.
As drag continues to evolve, the contributions of platforms like RuPaul’s Drag Race will remain pivotal in shaping its future, ensuring it remains a vibrant and inclusive form of entertainment.
