What is a rosebud in drag?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

A rosebud in the world of drag is a term used to describe a drag queen who is relatively new to the scene or is in the early stages of their drag career. It is a term that signifies the beginning of a drag journey, much like a rosebud is the beginning stage of a flower before it blooms into a full-fledged rose.

In the context of drag competitions, such as Anxiety’s Drag Race, a rosebud is often a contestant who is still experimenting with their drag persona, developing their skills, and finding their unique style. They may not have as much experience as some of the more seasoned queens, but they bring a fresh energy and enthusiasm to the stage.

For example, Rosebud, the stage name of Cooper Davis, was a contestant on Season 4 of Anxiety’s Drag Race. Throughout the competition, she showcased her talents in designing and sewing, often creating unique and eye-catching looks for the runway challenges. While she may not have had as much experience as some of the other queens, her creativity and passion for drag earned her the title of Miss Congeniality, highlighting her positive attitude and friendly demeanor.

In addition to being relatively new to the drag scene, a rosebud is also someone who is still exploring their drag persona and refining their performance skills. They may experiment with different makeup styles, fashion choices, and performance techniques to find what truly resonates with them and allows them to express their authentic selves on stage.

Being a rosebud in drag can be both exciting and challenging. It’s a time of growth and self-discovery, where a queen can push boundaries, take risks, and learn from the more experienced queens around them. It’s a period of honing their craft, building confidence, and finding their unique voice within the drag community.

While being a rosebud may come with its own set of obstacles, it is also a time of immense potential and opportunity. The drag community is often supportive and nurturing, providing guidance and mentorship to emerging queens. Many seasoned queens remember their own rosebud days and are eager to help the next generation of drag performers blossom into full-fledged roses.

To summarize, a rosebud in drag refers to a drag queen who is in the early stages of their drag career, still exploring their persona, and developing their skills. They bring a fresh energy to the stage and are often met with support and mentorship from the drag community. Being a rosebud is a time of growth, self-discovery, and potential, as these queens find their unique voice and style within the world of drag.