This is an essay about my personal reflection of what motivates me and which methods I use to understand and maintain my motivation as a mask- and wigdesigner.

During December 2021-Feb 2022 I did makeup and wig design at Dalateatern and Örebro Teater for the play Jekyll vs Hyde. What I wanted to explore during production was: "How can I, as a mask designer, create something that is challenging and exciting to watch while requiring as little effort as possible from the actors to whom I am going to hand over the design?"  I wanted to find solutions where I could feel proud of my design while at the same time I wanted to feel confident that what I created could be managed in a simple and sustainable way.

This essay explores drag as an artform, guided by the lens of queer theory, offering insights into the nuanced expressions of drag. Exploring three theatrical productions across genres like modern dance, opera and musical theatre, the study focuses on character portrayal and design, seeking to understand the essence of drag and why certain cross- dressings are more closely associated with drag than others. By combining performance analyses with existing research on drag, this paper reveals the complex and dynamic nature of drag culture. With a particular emphasis on the exploration and subversion of gender norms, the study sheds light on how drag is portrayed and understood within the Swedish theatrical context through Matilda the Musical, Askungen and Everlasting Event. Through this investigation, the essay offers valuable insights into the evolving role of drag as a form of artistic expression and social commentary.