Post #22
Hello darlings! Your favourite Derbyshire drag queen is back, Emma, your pink tutu-wearing guide to all things fabulous in drag history. This month, my magical time-traveling tutu has whisked me back to October 10th, 1921. I can already tell you this trip's gonna be extra, as it marks the start of one of the most significant events in entertainment history: the "first night" of the legendary Ziegfeld Follies.
Get ready, because this journey’s gonna take us on a dazzling dance across the Atlantic, from the bustling streets of New York to the elegant stages of London. Trust me, the outfits alone are gonna have your heart singing!
A Little About Those Legendary Follies…
Now, those of you who know your drag history are already squealing in delight, but for the newbies, the Ziegfeld Follies was a truly monumental, all-singing, all-dancing spectacular. Imagine hundreds of gorgeous chorus girls dressed to the nines, shimmering like diamonds in the spotlight, showcasing their incredible skills – from tap dancing to elaborate showgirl numbers - it was like a Broadway dream!
What's truly fascinating is the Follies became known for its incredible integration of theatricality, musical talent, and jaw-dropping visuals. And guess what? Drag Queens were a HUGE part of the magic. Even though they didn't officially claim the title "Drag Queen" back then, let me tell you, these ladies weren't afraid to put on a fabulous show and push the boundaries of what was considered "appropriate" for female performers at the time. Think burlesque queens, stunning chorus girls, and vaudeville stars!
But how does it relate to Drag?
Now, it’s true, drag back then was very different, more subtle. But the Follies gave birth to some of the biggest names in vaudeville like Josephine Baker - she really took the concept of "dressing up" to the next level and became an icon, inspiring drag queens all over the world! Imagine performing with those costumes and those show-stopping numbers – iconic, darling!
On the Road in a Pink Tutu...
Right, before we delve deeper, we have to chat fashion! And this is where my love for pink tutus comes in. It's a big year for all things glamour. In 1921, flapper dresses were all the rage, short and free-flowing, and it's truly a style that transcends time. Think of all the feather boas, sequin-encrusted dresses, and flamboyant hats! Those girls definitely had some extra when it came to their accessories, and you better believe my magical pink tutu felt right at home!
London's Fabulous Side Show...
As we hop on a boat to London, it's a journey of glittering theatres and incredible shows! I have a sneaking suspicion the London Palladium was already hosting a spectacular drag scene! Imagine those gorgeous cabaret acts, those big band numbers – pure glamor! I just can't wait to experience it myself!
A Time Traveller's Diary
- Day 1: The grand opening of the Follies in New York – OMG! The costumes are absolutely out of this world! It’s like everyone has gone all out on the sparkles! I spotted the famous "Showgirl", all feathered and dazzling. She's truly a pioneer of drag. I must add this style to my upcoming drag collection!
- Day 3: A whirlwind tour of Harlem’s legendary nightlife. The drag scene is amazing – the energy, the music! I can practically see the roots of ballroom in the street drag performers. They have a unique style – think bold colors, elaborate hair, and that confidence!
- Day 5: A spectacular show at the London Palladium. They have the best tap dance routines and chorus numbers! There's so much history on that stage. The audience is completely mesmerized – what a privilege to experience it all in person!
- Day 7: My heart is full. *This journey has taught me that the history of drag is a story of constant reinvention, of challenging societal norms and pushing creative boundaries. This is truly *an era where dressing up meant expressing your individuality and making a statement! My pink tutu just knows we need to keep on dazzling and inspiring with our outfits!
Stay Fabulous!
My time here in the past has been simply enchanting, but my pink tutu beckons me to another adventure in drag history! I'll be back with another pink-tutu fuelled journey, but for now, don't forget to subscribe to www.pink-tutu.com. Don’t be afraid to put on a fabulous outfit, channel your inner queen, and make a statement – be bold, be brilliant, be you!
And always remember… Pink is for life, darlings! 💕 💖
