College students show up with tote bags, earphones, and matcha lattes for a chance to participate in the “Performance Men” contests cropping up at universities across the nation.
The aim of these events, which include both male and female participants, is to imitate men who adopt certain beliefs and hobbies to gain female attention. This can involve everything from gift cards to literature by women.
“Performing men tend to like women, as well as unique individuals, aligning them with a particular aesthetic,” noted Gabby IQ, a Temple University student. “But for many, it’s a surface-level thing rather than a commitment to a lifestyle. If you’re drawn to something, it should genuinely resonate with you, not just be a way to seek validation.”
The contest has gained significant traction online, with countless viewers pretentiously feigning political stances or showing off their reading habits, often laughing at those who truly don’t understand these nuances.
Other institutions that have observed “performance men” this month include the University of Pennsylvania, UNC, William & Mary University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Though the formats of these contests differ, encompassing fundraising and community engagement, they are generally intended to offer enjoyable experiences.
The event held on September 5 in North Carolina lasted about an hour and attracted over 100 audience members who were fans of various artists. Reports indicate that.
During the contest, one participant displayed a sign that read, “My culture is not your outfit,” defending the authenticity of performance on campus.
Women were also encouraged to join the contest. They argue that since they understand what attracts them best, they should have an advantage in winning.
“You can embody a performance man, but, conversely, you can also be a performance woman pretending to be a performance man,” said one contestant.
While these competitions create a lighthearted vibe, some people express that the community really benefits from such events.
“I love this quirky space… it’s crucial to have more areas like this on campus,” commented Auxmary Valdez, a sophomore at the University of Central Florida.
Students mention that the “performance mask contest” at Central Florida has been quite popular, with many participants bringing props to engage in the competition.
“There was something wonderful about the joy in that space. It’s unlike anything I’ve seen before. If you gather a group of diverse individuals, it creates a lively and engaging atmosphere,” Valdez added. “It was heartwarming to witness and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”
At Temple University, funds were reportedly raised for women affected by abuse during a contest featuring over 25 participants.
At William & Mary, the winner receives a $50 Starbucks gift card, and around 100 students were in attendance.
The overarching themes of these contests often focus on menstrual advocacy and discussions around women’s hygiene products.
“This competition emphasizes the importance of recognizing women’s desire for visibility and respect,” said Ag Yurkutat, a spectator at the William & Mary event. “We also poke fun at those who rely on consumerism to attract women instead of being sincere and compassionate individuals.”
