Aymond’s fancy wardrobe: gender performance as work (1920-1950)

ABSTRACT

This paper is an effort to promote dialogue between the fields of labor and gender studies through an analysis of the professional career of the cross-dressing artist Norberto Aymonino and his character Aymond. The Argentine artist, who performed on Brazilian stages between 1920 and 1955, had recognized talent, beauty, and style, and he signed contracts with Brazil’s leading entertainment companies. Nevertheless, he won less recognition and was paid less than other variety artists. This article uses Aymond’s experience to analyze such contrasts between the careers of professional drag queens and other performers.

Keywords:
cross-dressing artist; gender; labor