Hiya darlings! Emma here, back again from another time travelling adventure, and this month, Iâm whipping up some glamorous history for you all. Get ready for some fabulous February fun, because we're heading back to the roaring 1920s! I popped my magical pink tutu on and time-travelled back to February 2nd 1922, a day jam-packed with drag delights! I had a ball!
But first, letâs take a quick trip back to the present, or what you'd call "present," for me, as you lovely lot know I travel to a whole different timeline! I'm so proud to say my most recent drag show "Pink Power Hour" sold out! You can bet I was shimmying, strutting and glittering to a full house - and everyone had such a brilliant time! So glad people were enjoying the performance, my drag performances always make my travels worthwhile! I mean, whatâs a fabulous fashionista on a quest to spread the pink tutu joy, to do without a little financial support?
Well, with my pockets overflowing and the joy from "Pink Power Hour" still warming my soul, it was time for another grand trip, so I dusted off my feather boa, pulled on my shimmering pink sequins and whoosh⌠here I am, 101 years in the past!
Welcome to the 1920s!
Oh darling, where do I even start?! It was SO different back then. Imagine! It was a time when drag was really, really hush hush - and in a different way than how we use "hush hush" nowadays! You're not gonna believe what I saw: Drag shows were almost a total secret, performed mostly in clandestine settings and backrooms in places like New York's famous Greenwich Village. I was in a bit of a shock when I saw the signs âprivate" and "men only" at places which looked to be packed. They called the queens "soubrettes," or "theatrical ladies", oh my word - we need to bring back these names! They had a distinct way of presenting themselves, and they performed mostly comedic vaudeville and cabaret routines with just the right blend of campy charm and wit! It really gave you an insight into the power of self-expression back then.
And speaking of vaudeville, the world was captivated by the most exciting musical performance, starring no less than the fabulous Fanny Brice. She was absolutely making waves on Broadway in âZiegfeld Follies,â her comic and witty act wowed all, just incredible! I imagine Fanny Brice was truly a force of nature - you could say she was one of the ultimate queens in early 20th century entertainment. We still remember and love Fanny Brice's legacy to this day, with so much influence and inspiration, especially for me, when it comes to our wonderful, drag family!
While the world of entertainment buzzed with talent and fun in New York, a similar energy filled the air in the United Kingdom. My goodness! The capital city of London was totally bustling with a blend of theater and glamour. I was able to find my way into an amazing performance at the intimate theater, The Savoy. The whole night sparkled with energy and glitz as I watched âThe Goldfish.â Just hearing that title sends chills down my spine! It was a totally hilarious show and I'm telling you it totally reminded me of my favorite cabaret show, "Moulin Rouge"! It really brought me back to my French, burlesque-inspired drag roots - if only it was more "pink-tutu"!
As I'm sure youâre all wondering: I totally indulged in a little bit of shopping while I was there. Oh my gosh, there was such an amazing collection of beautiful fabrics. The shops were positively overflowing with gorgeous, flamboyant styles. The fashion world was just a wonderland of silks, velvets and jewels and just a little hint of a 1920s "flapper" vibe! You know I couldnât resist trying on some fabulous hats â they had a really special "pink" shade which I bought! Of course! I'm pretty sure I just snagged the last one â such a rare find. Iâve had my eyes set on a little number of 1920s feather boa - itâs my mission! The vibrant colors and the incredible texture - drools. I feel my style is evolving in so many fun ways!
You know, as much as I loved seeing all the fabulous costumes and designs around me, itâs been really important for me to be present in the 1920s and realize the incredible struggle and sacrifice for those who had to hide who they really were to experience a kind of drag. The journey from 1922 to the current year has been long â a journey that's made so many sacrifices so that I can feel so open and celebrated. It's such an incredible honor to walk the path they carved out. I am forever inspired by my sisters in the 1920s, and it reminds me how important it is for all of us to support each other!
Remember that we can make a real difference just by doing our best to love ourselves and to keep creating spaces where every one feels free and encouraged to be their authentic self! You know what they say âWhen you look your best, you feel your best!â
Well darling, time travel is tiring, so I must say âbye for now, " but don't forget â our journey together isnât over, just a temporary "pause". Keep checking in to the www.pink-tutu.com website. Donât forget I'll be back here next month with another fabulously fun chapter in our pink tutu adventure. And be sure to follow me on all my social media pages to get a glimpse into the behind the scenes. I am sending you love, kisses and lots of sparkle! And never forget that you can always achieve your dreams if youâre willing to take the jump and make the magical happen!
With all my love Emma.
