The Art Of Drag A Practical Performers’ Handbook by Michael Twaits

The Art of Drag A Practical Performers’ Handbook is for kings, things, queens and queers who want to finesse their performance skills and conquer the world. Prior to writing Twaits looked at the existing books and drag and noticed everything was either documenting history, exploring aesthetics or a themed coffee table book with gorgeous pictures. No one had written about what to actually do when you’re stood on stage and the spotlight is shining! Whether you are an experienced performer looking at how to take things further, become more professional, or a first timer looking for some inspiration prior to entering Drag Idol – The Art of Drag is here to help.

While drag may sparkle on the surface, it’s also serious art!  

This isn’t just about how to glue on a lash, the book takes the reader on a backstage tour through the full creative process: developing a persona, crafting a look, writing and rehearsing a set, and, most importantly, finding your unique voice. Whether you’re a baby queen, a drag king in training, or a non-binary performance artist wanting to explore gender expression, this book has something for you. It acknowledges drag’s rich history while championing its rebellious, ever-evolving future.

What makes this book especially exciting is its roots

The Royal Vauxhall Tavern, London’s oldest LGBTQ+ venue, has long been a cradle for cutting-edge queer performance. Twaits took their experience running the drag course at the RVT and shaped it into a handbook that feels like being in the room, soaking up wisdom and listening to the advice of other performers. The book features interviews with seven very different performers all of whom use The Art Of Drag in very different ways – Adam All, Son Of A Tutu, Le Fil, Hugo Grrrl, Simply Barbra and Me The Drag Queen!

The Art of Drag is a teaching book

But the tone is fun, cheeky but sincere, informative without being preachy, and always inclusive! There’s space in these pages for all genders, bodies, and styles of drag. Twaits champions authenticity over perfection and encourages readers to play—to make messes, to take risks, and to love every second of it.

Expect practical tips on everything from comic constructions to stage presence, alongside interviews, personal anecdotes, and exercises to help bring your alter ego to life. It’s part manual, part memoir, and part motivational manifesto. Whether you’re planning your first number or looking to level up your drag career, Twaits offers both technical know-how and the kind of spiritual pep talk that will have you sashaying out the door with purpose.

The Art of Drag is about performance

The Art of Drag is as much about performance as it is about self-expression, empowerment, and queer joy. Michael Twaits has created a book that belongs on the shelf of every performer, dreamer, and lover of fabulousness.

So if you’ve ever thought, “Could I do drag?”—Twaits’ answer is a resounding YES. With this book in hand, all you need is a little nerve, a little time  and a whole lotta love.

The course, The Art of Drag, is also back at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern in September – limited spaces still available. Ten weeks of Monday evening sessions reaching a crescendo with a showcase at the iconic RVT!

The Art of Drag is published by Routledge.