Unleash Your Royal Identity: 10 Top Tips for Finding Your Perfect Drag King Name

[Maggot Banks, Goondiwindi Jones, Dario di Bello, Dustin le Rugrat, ShaMan]

Embracing your Drag King persona is an exhilarating journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and creative expression. Your Drag King name is the key to unlocking your royal identity and stepping into the spotlight with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting your Drag King adventure, finding the perfect name is a crucial step. Here are 10 top tips to help you discover a name that embodies your essence and reigns supreme on stage.

1. Play with Word Puns:

Get those creative juices flowing by playing with word puns and clever language. Combine words related to masculinity, power, and your personal interests. For example, "Max Power," "Sir Swift," or "Duke Dynamite" can ignite your imagination.

2. Embrace Alliterations:

Alliterations are catchy and memorable, making them perfect for a Drag King name. Try pairing the same letter with a strong-sounding word, like "King Kai," "Macho Micah," or "Gentleman Greg."

3. Channel Your Persona:

Your Drag King name can be an extension of your persona, embodying the qualities you wish to explore on stage. Consider what characteristics you want to showcase – charismatic, fierce, or humorous – and let that guide your choice.

4. Draw Inspiration from Icons:

Pay homage to your favorite historical figures, fictional characters, or pop culture icons who inspire you. Modify their names to create something unique, like "Alexander the Great," "Captain Courageous," or "Romeo Rebel."

5. Seek Word Translations:

Explore translations of powerful words or phrases in different languages that align with your vision. "Fuerza Fenix" (Phoenix Force) or "Roi du Coeur" (King of Hearts) can add an international touch to your Drag King name. But remember to only draw from your own cultural heritage.

6. Incorporate Your Birth Name:

Incorporate elements of your birth name to maintain a connection with your identity. Play with variations or rearrange the letters to craft a new moniker that feels authentic, like "Dan the Man" for Danica. (But please never call me that. Lol)

7. Consider the Pronunciation:

Ensure that your Drag King name rolls off the tongue easily and has a strong presence when spoken aloud. A name that's easy to remember and pronounce will help you make a lasting impression.

8. Consult Your Kings of Joy Community:

Share ideas with your fellow performers in the Kings of Joy community. Brainstorming with others can lead to surprising inspirations and help you gauge which names resonate the most.

9. Research Historical Titles:

Dig into history books and discover historical titles or noble names that align with your Drag King persona. "Emperor Elio" or "Marquis Mason" can add a regal touch to your performance.

10. Check for Originality:

Once you've narrowed down your options, ensure that your chosen name is unique and not already taken by another performer. Originality is key to standing out in the Drag King world.

Consider using your Drag King name as an opportunity to reclaim parts of your identity and express yourself authentically. Embrace your queerness, ethnicity, or personal experiences through your name.

Don't rush the process. Finding the perfect Drag King name is a deeply personal process. Don't rush it; take your time to explore different options and let the name come to you organically. It took 6 years for me to find a name I really loved and resonated with - Dario di Bello.

Be true to yourself. Above all, let your Drag King name reflect the most authentic version of yourself. It should be a name that fills you with pride and joy, empowering you to conquer the stage and live your best life as a Drag King.

Your Drag King name is more than just a stage alias; it's a crown that represents your journey of self-exploration and empowerment. By following these 10 top tips, you'll uncover a name that celebrates your unique identity and allows you to reign as a sovereign force of talent and creativity. Embrace your Drag King persona, step into the spotlight, and let your Kings of Joy community support you every step of the way on your path to living your best life. 

Long live the Kings!

Xx

Danica Lani

The King Coach

P.S. If you wanna be a Drag King, join the waiting list for Kings of Joy here.