Corsets are tightened, tutus are fluffed, and wigs are adjusted. Men apply heavy rouge and step into glossy high heels before entering stage left. The lights shine down and a line dance accompanied by singing ensues. While this may sound like it has all the modern day trimmings of a drag show, the year is 1942, and the performers are U.S. soldiers. The U.S. military has a rather lengthy history when it comes to drag shows, particularly during World War II, when cross dress events were not only sanctioned by the Army, but celebrated as a boon for morale. "From Broadway to Guadalcanal, on the backs of trucks, makeshift platforms, and elegant theater stages, American GIs did put on all-male shows for each other that almost always featured female impersonation routines," writes author Allan Berube. A now famous production known as "This is the Army" included all manner of soldiers in various costumes. In this production, cross dressing was not only encouraged by the military but became a nationwide sensation. Though it was originally a Broadway musical intended to fundraise for the troops, it was eventually turned into a movie.
展开▼
