Do you have what it takes to be a star?
NL Next Drag Superstar is a local drag competition series spotlighting the next wave of drag talent in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Newfoundland and Labrador is clearly a drag talent HOTSPOT. Inspired by competition formats that have successfully launched in other cities, this series brings runway, performance, comedy, creativity, and nerve together across a multi-show season — all while centring community, growth, and professional development.
Whether you’re brand new to drag or a seasoned performer looking to sharpen your competitive edge, NL Next Drag Superstar is designed to challenge artists, build résumés, and create unforgettable moments on stage.
The Competition Format
- 7 contestants will be selected to compete
- 5 live shows taking place in March and April (Sunday evenings) at the Bella Vista
- 1 elimination per show, leading to a final 3 showdown
- Each contestant receives $50 honorarium per show (in which they’re competing)
- Contestants receive free admission + 1 guest for each show
- Eliminated contestants may continue attending remaining shows for free + 1 guest
Eligibility
Any drag artist who is a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador for the past six months and who has performed locally in public at least once (paid or unpaid opportunity including open stages). Must be 19 years of age on or before March 14, 2026. Drag queens, kings, and things welcome.
After the application process closes, 8 contestants will be selected by a public vote and announced live at the Newfoundland Drag Awards at the Rock House on Saturday, March 14 (and later made available online).
Applications close Sunday February 22, 2026 at 11:59pm NT.
The Challenges
Next Drag Superstar will have contestants participate in the following challenges.
Show 1: Design Challenge
Sunday, March 29 (evening)
The Bella Vista
Show 2: Lip Sync Competition
Sunday, April 5 (evening)
The Bella Vista
Show 3: Snatch Game
Sunday, April 12 (evening)
The Bella Vista
Show 4: Makeover Challenge
Sunday, April 19
The Bella Vista
Show 5: Talent Show (Finale)
Sunday, April 26
The Bella Vista
Judges & Hosts
NL Next Drag Superstar features a rotating panel of respected local drag leaders, including:
- Misty Manifest (Creative Director of Drag is Art)
- Crystal Queer (Owner of CQ Events and event sponsor of NDS)
- Guest judges from the Drag Advisory committee
- Season pass holders (selected at random draw)
Hosted by beloved local performers, including Tara Nova, Gravy, and Trish Bish.
Prizes
Minimum guaranteed prizes:
- Winner: $750 + $50 honorarium per show
- Runner-up: $200 + $50 honorarium per show
- Third place: $100 + $50 honorarium per show
Note: These are minimum prize values. A grant application is currently pending, and if additional funding is secured, prize amounts will increase.
Sponsors
Drag is Art is thankful to the following sponsors:
Interested in being a sponsor? Email Dill at dill@dragis.art to discuss sponsorship opportunities.
Why Compete?
NL Next Drag Superstar is an ideal opportunity for artists interested in:
- Gaining experience in large-scale competition formats
- Building a strong artist CV
- Receiving professional exposure, feedback, and mentorship
- Pushing creative limits in a supportive, high-profile environment
Drag is Art is committed to supporting the professional and artistic development of local drag artists, and this series is designed with that goal at its core.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out the answers to some of these frequently asked questions.
What is Drag is Art?
Drag is Art is an organization dedicated to uplifting Newfoundland’s 2SLGBTQIA+ drag artists through performances, workshops, and community initiatives.
How frequently will the shows take place?
We’re still finalizing the schedule, but we are hoping the shows will be on Sunday evenings. They may happen once per week, once every two weeks, or a a mix of biweekly/weekly depending on venue availability. The finale will happen before April 15, 2026.
Is this just for experienced drag artists?
Drag artists at any stage of their career are eligible to apply.
I want to watch the competition. How much will tickets be?
Season Pass: $45
- Entrance to all 5 shows included
- Opportunity to be entered into a draw to be a community guest judge for one show
Shows 1, 2, & 4:
- $15 at the door
- $10 presale
Snatch Game (Show 3) & Finale (Show 5):
- $20 at the door
- $12.99 presale
Is there a minimum age requirement?
Due to venue requirements, drag artists must be 19 years of age by February 15, 2026 to compete.
Questions?
If you have questions, please email us at opportunities@dragis.art.