Hello, darlings! It's Emma, your pink tutu-clad time traveller, here with another fabulous chronicle from the glittering archives of drag history. This month, my magical pink tutu has whisked me back to February 2nd, 1928, and oh my stars, let me tell you, this trip was one for the books! I simply adore those roaring 20s - the glamour, the flapper dresses, the jazz, the sheer exuberance!
Now, let's delve into the world of drag back in the '28! As ever, our lovely pink tutu had dropped me into the heart of the action - the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin. And honey, I'm not talking just any theatre - it was the hottest place for musical revues and entertainment! Imagine a vibrant atmosphere, buzzing with excitement and just a hint of naughtiness. And what were they serving up? You bet - drag queens in all their flamboyant glory!
One act in particular had me spellbound, "The Follies of 1928", and dear heavens, were they Follies! I felt like I was watching a kaleidoscope of glitter and feather boas unfold right before my very eyes. The production boasted a chorus of beautiful, bejeweled ladies, prancing and preening in costumes that would have made even a contemporary drag queen gasp with admiration.
Now, you might be thinking, Emma, what's the story behind all this glitz? And you'd be right to wonder, because there was much more going on than just sparkly frocks. 1928 was a fascinating period for the arts, especially when it came to female impersonation. I love a little history lesson, and let's face it, a drag queen can never have enough stories to share over a cocktail!
So, let's paint the scene. 1928 was smack bang in the middle of a period known as "The Jazz Age" - a whirlwind of artistic liberation and social change. The women were flaunting shorter hems, more revealing attire, and bobbed hairstyles. The world was changing at a furious pace, and what better way to express that shift in attitudes than through the glorious chaos of drag?
"The Follies of 1928" represented this shift to perfection, showcasing a playful irreverence, an "anything goes" energy that spoke directly to the evolving sense of freedom in the air. These drag queens, daringly bending the lines of gender and society, were in a sense reflecting a culture that was hungry for a fresh perspective. It was exciting, it was glamorous, and, in a nutshell, it was all just a bit "extra," and frankly, darling, isn't that the core of drag?
Back to my trip, I managed to nab myself a prime seat in the stalls - after all, darling, when I travel I travel in style - and I found myself thoroughly charmed by the entire affair. The music was divine, a sultry cocktail of jazz and blues, the dancers were intoxicating, and the drag queens... well, let's just say they were the true stars of the show. Each queen had her own distinct persona, their voices ringing out with an infectious energy.
While I don't think the costumes had any feathers, (it was definitely pre-feather era! giggles). they certainly didn't skimp on sequins and sparkle! Think sleek gowns that hugged every curve and bold, beautiful make-up. It was the sheer joy of performance, the embodiment of the zeitgeist - the freedom to express oneself in all its glorious, glittery form!
But you know me, love, I simply can't resist a bit of retail therapy. So, after the show, I had a divine time exploring the Dublin shops. Imagine silk scarves, dazzling earrings, and decadent hats, just brimming with vibrant hues. I mean, where else could you find an exotic-looking peacock feather for a little extra drama on your dress?
The '20s were an absolute treasure trove of dazzling and daring fashion, and to think I got to witness it all firsthand! I came home with a head full of ideas for my own wardrobe and, dare I say, an entirely new appreciation for the bold women of the past.
Now, before I let you go, I must ask you, darling, have you donned your pink tutu today? I firmly believe in spreading the joy of this magical garment. Whether you’re hitting the dance floor, getting dolled up for a drag show, or simply prancing about the house, a pink tutu can inject an instant dose of playful whimsy. Remember, it's not just a piece of clothing; it's a statement!
Catch you next month, darlings! In the meantime, let's keep that pink tutu spirit alive! You can find all my past adventures on the www.pink-tutu.com. Let's make this world a glitter-filled, pink tutu paradise, one drag-tastic post at a time!
XOXO
Emma, your Pink Tutu Time Traveller
