Hello, darling darlings! It's Emma, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, time-traveling, drag-obsessed blogger, back with another sparkly chronicle of history's fabulous moments. Welcome to the 140th edition of my digital diary, where I bring you the best in drag history from across the ages! This month, let's shimmy back to August 8th, 1931 – a date that might sound boring, but I assure you, the world of drag was sizzling!
Before we take a dive into this time capsule, remember, dear readers, to grab your favourite shade of pink, throw on your most glamorous tutu, and follow me on this fabulous journey through history! And for those who haven’t already, why not pay a visit to my fabulous website www.pink-tutu.com. I'd absolutely love to hear your thoughts on the adventures we've been having so far!
Now, where were we? Ah yes, August 8th, 1931. A year after the Wall Street Crash, things were still a bit turbulent. However, the spirit of the roaring twenties wasn’t down for the count! It was a time of vibrant music, sassy dances and audacious fashion, perfect breeding grounds for our fabulous drag icons. And speaking of iconic...
This month, I’ve got my heart set on New York City. Imagine – glittering jazz clubs, smoke-filled speakeasies and an electric, almost intoxicating atmosphere – that's what awaited me as I twirled my pink tutu through the heart of Manhattan's underground scene!
It was like a time warp back to a legendary drag queen from this very era – Julian Eltinge, a legend who wowed audiences in both Broadway and vaudeville with his incredible impersonations of elegant women, proving the art of drag transcends the decades.
Julian was all the rage in the twenties. His success proved a massive leap forward for drag. His shows were elaborate productions with extravagant costumes and glamorous dances. Just thinking about him is enough to get me practicing some old-timey fan dances in the mirror, darling!
Back in 1931, the dance floor of The Cotton Club was buzzing with excitement. It was considered the heart of Harlem's vibrant jazz scene. Now, as any self-respecting drag aficionado knows, where there’s music, there's drag, right?
It was here, in this steamy cauldron of music, dancing and joy, that I witnessed a different kind of performance, the kind that would influence generations of queens – The Original Harlem Rennaissance. Imagine, the rhythmic call and response of soulful music weaving its magic with dance and movement, every expression raw and full of heart. It was revolutionary then, and still inspiring today. It wasn't just about being glamorous; it was about liberation and pushing boundaries.
In this whirlwind of vibrant art forms, I discovered a connection – one of fierce individuality and joyous expression that echoed the spirit of drag today. It was a powerful reminder that drag is more than just dressing up – it's about finding your own voice and claiming your own power, and what could be more liberating than that?
And what was the most important aspect of these captivating performances? You guessed it, darling – the costumes! This era embraced fashion. It wasn’t just about covering the body; it was about celebrating its form! Long beaded gowns shimmering under stage lights, flapper dresses that moved like the jazz itself, and shoes so impossibly high they defied gravity. The very concept of ‘drag’ as a performance was still fresh and evolving, but its power to entertain and challenge was undeniable!
But even beyond New York, the spirit of drag was thriving. It wasn’t just in the cities, it was everywhere! This is what I love about drag history, you can't put it in a box! You've got the glamour of the Broadway stage, the intimate settings of a dive bar, and the electrifying street shows – every corner held a spark of artistic expression, a defiance of norms, a love of fun!
Oh darling, and the music! Imagine – the intoxicating jazz of Duke Ellington, the sassy swing of Ella Fitzgerald, and the legendary vocals of Bessie Smith. Imagine them on a bustling New York street! Imagine the sounds that shaped this time! Each beat and melody, a reflection of an era ready to dance, laugh, and embrace everything and everyone! I can only dream of that!
Now, I know you’re itching for a time travelling pink tutu adventure too! But unfortunately, I’ve got to stop for now. My magical tutu, whilst incredible, only allows for a once-a-month journey, and my next stop is a world away from the jazzy vibes of New York, so I have to pack! But fear not, I'll keep you updated every month with more adventures, and more history! Remember, darling darlings, drag is forever!
Until next time, remember – be fabulous, be yourself, and don’t forget your pink tutu!
Emma xoxo
