Welcome to the glittering intersection of sequins and equations, where the art of performance meets the precision of mathematics. In Math in Drag, Kyne Santos, a world-class drag queen, math educator, science communicator, and social media influencer who competed on the first season of Canada's Drag Race, peels back the curtain on the dazzling world of drag culture, revealing the unexpected hero behind the spotlight: mathematics.
Picture this: A drag queen takes the stage, her costume a kaleidoscope of symmetrical patterns that play tricks on the eyes, her makeup a masterclass in the golden ratio. Math in Drag dives into the heart of this spectacle, illustrating how drag performers wield mathematical principles as tools for creating their show-stopping looks. The book explores the transformational magic of symmetry, proportion, and geometry, showing how these mathematical principles are not just for textbooks—they're for the runway, too.
But the math doesn't stop at visual aesthetics. Kyne takes us through the rhythmic world of drag performance choreography, where mathematical patterns and sequences ensure that every dip, twirl, and sashay is executed with precision. This book will have you viewing the art of dance through a whole new lens—one with a glittering mathematical filter.
Beyond the sparkle, Kyne explores something deeper: the power of self-expression and empowerment. Mathematics becomes a tool for challenging stereotypes and pushing boundaries, a language that speaks volumes in the quest for individuality and acceptance in the drag community and beyond.
The impact of drag culture on mainstream fashion and entertainment cannot be overstated, and Math in Drag showcases this influence. Through vivid examples and engaging narratives, the book highlights how drag performers have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
Kyne celebrates the creativity, innovation, and diversity that thrive within drag culture. It's a testament to how both mathematics and drag can be tools for empowerment, self-expression, and artistry. If you're ready to have your mind expanded and your perceptions challenged, Math in Drag invites you to embrace the unconventional and discover how the precision of math can blend with the fluidity of drag to create something truly extraordinary.
Born in Manila, Kyne received a Bachelor of Mathematics with a major in Mathematical Finance at the University of Waterloo. She began her drag career while at school in Ontario. In 2020, she appeared on the first season of Canada’s Drag Race, and began sharing her passion for math education and scientific literacy online. She hosts the Think Queen podcast and was named among Forbes's 30 Under 30 in Toronto. With an audience of over 2 million followers across platforms, Kyne brings STEM education to the queer community and queerness to STEM.