HIV Awareness and Stigma Reduction Through Immersive Theatrical Drag Storytelling: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study of Community Members in Western United States

ABSTRACT: HIV stigma remains a barrier to testing, prevention, and health care access among LGBTQ+ communities. Theatrical drag storytelling is a promising, culturally relevant approach to HIV awareness, stigma reduction, and prevention. A convergent mixed-methods pre-post survey design was used. Of 70 adults attending a community theatrical performance, 51 completed matched preperformance and postperformance surveys assessing HIV knowledge, stigma, testing, and empowerment. An open-ended question explored participant experiences. Among 51 matched participants, 94.1% perceived HIV stigma and 41.2% had never been tested for HIV. Following the performance, 90.2% reported increased HIV prevention knowledge and testing empowerment, and 84.3% reported personal relevance. Qualitative themes highlighted authenticity, empowerment, emotional resonance, HIV education, and community belonging. Immersive theatrical storytelling and drag performance may be effective, culturally relevant approaches to increasing HIV awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting testing engagement among LGBTQ+ communities, complementing traditional nursing and public health strategies.