TL;DR
- 28% of drag artists feel unsafe traveling to gigs.
- 29% report harassment and inappropriate touching.
- 98% say their pay hasn’t increased with living costs.
- Equity launches London Nightlife Network for support.
- Urgent action needed to protect performers.
In a shocking revelation that’s sending waves through London’s vibrant nightlife, a recent survey from Equity has unveiled that nearly one in three drag performers feel less safe working with audiences than they did before the pandemic. Yes, you heard that right! The glitter and glam of drag are being overshadowed by rising fears of harassment and aggression.
According to the survey, a staggering 28% of respondents reported feeling scared traveling to their gigs, citing a surge in homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, racism, and far-right sentiment as the culprits. And if that’s not alarming enough, 29% of these fabulous performers have experienced inappropriate touching and aggressive behavior while trying to entertain. Talk about a buzzkill!
One particularly brave performer went as far as suggesting that venues should be charged an additional fee if they can’t provide security – a clear indication of just how unsafe many feel on the job. With an average annual income of just £12,411, it’s no wonder these artists are juggling multiple gigs just to make ends meet. Typical fees range from £100 to £199, which is hardly enough to cover the cost of living in London’s pricey landscape.
In response to this alarming situation, Equity has launched the London Nightlife Network, aimed at improving pay and working conditions for performers. Nick Keegan, Equity’s variety organizer, didn’t hold back in expressing his outrage. “London’s nightlife culture is world-famous, but it’s being built on the backs of performers who are earning a fraction of a living wage,” he stated. “It is a disgrace that 98% of performers responding to our workforce survey say their pay is stagnating while they worry about their safety.”
With the nightlife scene under siege, it’s crucial that we rally behind our drag performers and demand better conditions. Equity is not just a union; it’s a lifeline for the 500,000 members fighting for better pay and working conditions across the UK’s performing arts landscape.
As the London Nightlife Network kicks off, it’s time for our community to stand up and support those who bring joy and color to our lives. Whether you’re a fan of drag or just someone who believes in the right to perform safely, let’s make some noise for our performers. Because no one should have to fear for their safety while doing what they love. It’s time to turn up the volume on this issue and ensure that our nightlife remains a safe haven for all!