Sequins, Survival, and Selfhood: An Emergent Theory of Drag as a Lifelong Identity Process Among Older LGBTQ+ Drag Performers

Laura K. M, Brian G. Chapman, Nels P. Highberg, Alexis B. Bernhardt, Debra F. Tomasino, Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Department of English and Modern Languages, University of Hartford, Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut

Research on Aging: An International Bimonthly Journal

Published online on July 29, 2026

Abstract

Research on Aging, Ahead of Print.
Older LGBTQ+ drag performers remain largely understudied within gerontology and LGBTQ+ aging scholarship. This qualitative study explored how older LGBTQ+ drag performers make meaning of drag expression across the life course. In-depth interviews were ...