About the Drag Summer Arts Program

In this two-week summer arts program at the BAX Annex, middle schoolers will explore the colorful and transformative art form of Drag through the principles of drama and creative movement. Participants will dive into dramatic play, character work, authentic expression, and community connection as they create unique drag personas. Using tools like facial expressions, body language, costume choices, and the art of lip syncing, students will build skills to bring their personas to life.

Each day will include a mix of group games, solo exploration, and collaborative creation exercises. Together, participants will develop a collaborative lip-synced drag performance that grows in depth as the week progresses. We will focus on Drag as an art form of transformation, highlighting its unique capacity to serve as a tool for self-discovery, collective storytelling, and political commentary, as well as its impact on social movements.

The two weeks will culminate in a celebratory performance party where participants will showcase their creations and share the stories they’ve been crafting for peers and families. This joyful event will honor the vibrant community and creativity cultivated throughout the program.

This program centers queer and trans wisdom and is open to all middle schoolers ages 11–14 who identify as queer, trans, gender-expansive, fluid, curious, questioning, or in allyship with the LGBTQ+ community. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to express yourself, connect with others, and embrace the magic of Drag!

Sample Daily Schedule

• 9-9:30 AM – Arrival, Community Building
• 9:30-11:30 AM – Technique Workshop (lip-syncing, make-up exploration, video/history review) 
• 11:30-1 PM – Lunch, outdoor time, including visits and lunch in Fort Greene Park, site specific field trips to public art murals and local cultural sites. 
• 1-2:30 PM – Devising Workshop 
• 2:30-3 PM – Show/tell shares and reflections
• 3 PM – Pick up

Tuition & Policies

BAX is a nonprofit organization committed to offering high-quality and accessible arts programs for all. As such, our two-week Drag tuition is priced at three public tiers ($1650, $1450 and $1250). Each family can assess the price that works best for their household. This is based on an honor system of your expressed need (we do not require financial documentation). Installment plans are available, and you can elect to enroll in one during online registration.

We have a limited amount of financial assistance available beyond these public tiers. Applications for Summer Financial Assistance will be available beginning February 4. 

Brooklyn Arts Exchange (BAX) is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all participants, staff, and community members. As of our 2025 Summer Arts Program, in alignment with NYC Department of Education standards, we require documentation of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccination or a valid exemption.

If your child has a medical exemption from these vaccines, we will require documentation of this exemption. We do not accept religious exemptions. Please read more about our Registration & Policies.