Monsters Aren’t Born. They’re Forged.
New cities. Deeper growth. Real evolution, live on stage.
Monsters in the Making is a multi-tier performance pipeline that helps emerging monster performers evolve into powerful, bookable artists.
Registration is only complete after payment. Eligibility rules apply (18+, state residency, one city trial per season).
Why Join Monsters in the Making?
Who Can Compete?
- Open to new drag performers of all genders and drag styles.
- Do not currently hold any other Michigan drag titles.
- Contestants may register for multiple events but can only win once during the series.
- Registration Fee: $60 (non-refundable)
- Monsters in the Making Rules and Terms can be viewed here!
- Spots are limited to 10 contestants per event.
Don’t wait—register today!
2025 City Trial Winners
Winner
Mutter Maggotte
1st Alternate
SirGin
Grand Rapids ’25
Winner: Creature Type Human
1st Alternate: Lexxi Pro
Both Competed in the Grand Finale
Lansing ’25
Winner: Ravenna
1st Alternate: Sasha Scissors
Both Competed in the Grand Finale
Flint ’25
Winner: SirGin
1st Alternate: Damian Darko
Both Competed in the Grand Finale
Audience Participation at Each Event
Be more than a spectator—be part of the action!
Experience bold and boundary-pushing artistry as drag monsters bring their most creative visions to life.
Witness Michigan’s next alternative drag legend claim the crown and title of Monster in the Making 2026.
Be part of an inclusive, electrifying atmosphere where creativity and diversity shine.
Vote for Your Favorite: Each guest receives tipping tickets to vote for their favorite performers. Additional tipping tickets can be purchased at the event.
HOW MONSTERS IN THE MAKING WORKS
Monsters in the Making (MITM) is a three-tier performance pipeline designed to develop emerging monster performers into professional artists through structured competitions, category evaluations, and advancement opportunities.
City Trials
10 monsters compete live in each city, evaluated across overall.
State Ascension
Top performers from each City move to the state championship.
Next Stage
The details for the next phase will be revealed on February 28, 2026.
Performers grow through experience, feedback, and competitive pressures — not just luck.
What You’re Judged On
Your monster is evaluated as a complete artistic force, not just a single moment.
Each City Trial features four core category rounds plus one overall design score — all designed to test different elements of your monster identity:
Rise of the Creatures
Judged on overall design, originality, technical execution, and presentation of an original monster.
Monster Lip Sync Challenge
Bring your Monster to the arena. Spin the wheel, receive a song from the announced list, choose an opponent, and battle live on stage. TOP 4 ONLY
Creature Feature
Your primary performance showcasing storytelling, movement, and stage command within the monster aesthetic.
READY TO REGISTER TO COMPETE?
Register below to rep your city!
Lansing
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
MAY
To be announced February 28, 2026
Only 10 competitors per city
Registration closes when all spots are filled.
Detroit
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
JUNE
To be announced February 28, 2026
Only 10 competitors per city
Registration closes when all spots are filled.
KALAMAZOO
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
JULY
To be announced February 28, 2026
Only 10 competitors per city
Registration closes when all spots are filled.
Registration Details
- $60 registration fee is required to secure your spot.
- Registration is only complete after payment.
- Competitor spots are limited — only 10 per city!
- Eligibility rules apply (must be 18+, state residency minimum, no competing in more than one city trial per season).
- After submitting the registration form, you will be redirected to the payment page.
- This ensures your registration is secure and your spot is confirmed.
Quick FAQ
Who can compete?
How many competitors per city?
What is the registration fee?
Is the competition judged?
Yes — across three core category rounds plus overall design.
What is Roulette?
What happens after City Trials?
Sponsor Monsters in the Making
Are you a brand looking to align with bold creativity and a passionate, engaged audience? Explore our sponsorship tiers for Monsters in the Making and leave a lasting impact.