#DragQueenHistory during 1930 07 July

Darling darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travel, your monthly dose of fabulous drag history with your girl, Emma! As the sun shimmers and the teacups clink, it’s time for another escapade in the time machine!

This month, my lovely, our magical pink tutu has whisked me away to 7th July 1930, a date ripe with glamorous goings-on! Oh, darling, you won't believe what I discovered in the bustling streets and glittering theatres of the era!

Picture it: London, 1930. The streets hum with the rhythmic rumble of cars, and the air is thick with the intoxicating scents of tobacco smoke and jasmine. A sea of flapper dresses, cloche hats and slicked-back hair flows down Piccadilly. It's a time when men donned suits and women twirled with panache. But amongst the glamorous throng, there's something else…a whispered secret that sends a thrill down my spine: Drag.

We are, my dears, in the midst of a glittering golden age for drag, an era where entertainment was king, and performance, divine! I discovered this through a fascinating find, a news article I unearthed - "Drag Ball Raises £500 for Local Charity". Can you believe it, darling? Not only were these queens fundraising with their dazzling shows, but they were also doing it in stunning outfits! The report talked about 'elaborate costumes', 'gleaming sequins' and 'bold colours' – oh darling, imagine the extravagance!

You might be thinking, "Emma, what are the chances of getting to see one of these legendary drag shows? " Well, I'll have you know, darling, that our pink tutu had other plans. She transported me to the stage of the legendary Palladium, a haven for some of the most flamboyant performers of the day.

The energy was electric. My jaw dropped, literally, at the costumes! Think flowing gowns with layers upon layers of feathers, sparkling tiaras perched upon powdered wigs, and some truly eye-catching make-up! The acts ranged from singing and dancing routines, complete with comedy interludes that had the audience roaring with laughter! It was pure magic!

The true highlight of the evening was meeting the show's headliner, a charming and witty queen named "Lily". She was everything a 1930s drag icon should be - larger than life, with an uncanny talent for entertaining, and a laugh that could shake the very foundations of the Palladium. She was gracious enough to give me some makeup tips – she insisted that a 'heavy hand' was the key to 1930s glam. She said, “Darling, if they can't see your brows across the room, then you're not wearing enough blush!”

Oh, and my darlings, have I got a scoop for you! The Palladium even featured a "Tutu Surprise", an unexpected interlude of three fabulous dancers performing a delightful ballerina routine with delicate tutus – the most glorious vision, all pinks and pastels! That's when it struck me. We must carry on this tradition! Can you imagine, darling, if every show included a dazzling tutu moment? What a joy!

So, you're all caught up on what drag was like in 1930. Let's get to the fun part, darling – fashion! The '30s had a signature elegance to it, a streamlined grace and a hint of sassy glamour. If you're thinking of recreating a 1930s look, there are some simple tips for that timeless elegance. Think high-waisted, figure-hugging styles. Play with ruched silk gowns or elegant beaded numbers. Flaunt those feathers – a good show girl should always have a feather boa at hand.

As for your signature tutu, embrace a whimsical vibe – it's time for that delicate tulle! Picture it, my dears: a soft, pale pink tutu with cascading layers, or maybe a bright fuschia with a smattering of sequins. Let your pink tutu become your pièce de résistance, the finishing touch that makes you stand out from the crowd.

But the magic of the '30s didn't stop with London. As my tutu carried me through the streets, I was greeted by bustling cities across the globe! From the roaring 20s-inspired jazz clubs of New York City to the flamboyant cabarets of Paris, the spirit of drag and performance lived vibrantly throughout the world! It is an age that teaches us that fabulousness has no boundaries, and creativity is truly universal.

So my lovely readers, do you dare to step into the world of pink tutus and time travel? Take a stroll back in time, research those glittering shows of the past, and get ready to dance to the rhythm of your heart! And who knows, you might find inspiration for your next dazzling look – who am I kidding? It's practically guaranteed! Remember, darling, the most fabulous you is the you who embraces pink tutus and dares to be different.

Until next month, darlings, keep shining bright!

Yours truly,

Emma.

www.pink-tutu.com