#DragQueenHistory during 1933 07 July

Hey, darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time-travelling blogger, reporting live from the glorious year of 1933! Today, we’re delving into the world of drag before it was mainstream – and, trust me, it was just as fabulous, just in a more… underground, whispered-about kinda way. 😉

Now, let’s rewind the clock, shall we? It’s 7th July, 1933, and the world is… well, a little different, darling! But one thing’s always the same: the incredible talent and artistry of drag queens shining bright. We might be stepping back in time, but the love for performing, the passion for fashion, the unbridled creativity – these are timeless, honey!

Remember that fabulous, time-travelling pink tutu I told you about? It’s magic, and let me tell you, the magic’s already in overdrive! Just last night, I landed smack-dab in the middle of the historic Palace Theatre in London. It’s 1933, and the crowds are roaring! In the glamorous heart of London's theatre district, they’re buzzing about a particularly daring drag show at the Palace. I’m talking daring with a capital ‘D’, darling. Can you even imagine, having the guts to dress up and perform on stage, let alone in 1933, in London! The pressure, the judgment! I simply have to get in on this action. I was determined to get a front-row seat.

Let me tell you, I was dazzled! They weren’t all your glitzy and glamorous, all-out extravagant queen types – in fact, drag was still very much considered, shall we say, a ‘underground movement’. This particular show was known for its cabaret atmosphere. Imagine a bit of comedy, some saucy songs, maybe even some suggestive moves thrown in. There’s a reason these queens were called the “Dandy Dudes”. Oh honey, their performances were a spectacle of charm, charisma, and, I dare say, cheeky humour!

One act really had me flabbergasted! It involved a pair of cross-dressing men wearing beautiful Victorian-inspired dresses, which had a touch of flair with embellishment and sparkles. There was even a bit where the two of them pranced around in ballet shoes! (Which, as you know, are my absolute favourites - hello, inspiration!) Imagine the dedication it must have taken for these queens to not only master the performance side, but to be creative enough to whip up their own outfits in such a beautiful way, especially during this time period! These women are true inspirations!

My heart was beating to the rhythm of the show, my inner diva getting fired up! Seeing these queens on stage, in their beautiful outfits, bringing the crowd to their feet was a real turning point. It made me realize that this isn’t just about performance – it’s about artistry, it’s about storytelling, it’s about pushing boundaries, and it's about finding beauty in every shade of you! I'm not saying everyone needs to go out and strut their stuff in a full-on drag ensemble (though, honey, you really should!), but taking that creative spark and expressing yourself is something everyone can embrace, and I encourage you all to do so, just like these 1933 queens.

Now, where were we? Ah, yes! London, 1933, and it’s not all about the glitzy cabaret scenes, darling. The world is changing, even here in 1933, and even when it comes to fashion and beauty, drag was having an effect! Take those daring drag queens who strutted their stuff in a pair of sparkling shoes on the London stage: this helped kick off a wave of ‘fashion liberation’. They inspired real life women to break free from societal constraints! Women began wearing pants and trousers - gasp! - and adopted bolder fashion choices, a style which later became popularized by the "New Look" movement of the 1950s. And, darling, who do we have to thank for this? Drag, darlings!

So, as my tutu dips and swishes through the vibrant city of 1933, I can't help but think, darling, what fantastic inspiration is around us. If you dare to wear pink, darling, it’s clear: history is on your side. Remember, queens, this is our story – a story written on stage, on the streets, and in the hearts of every woman (and man!) who wants to express themselves in bold colours and flamboyant flair!

Oh, and one last thing before I time-travel back to the future! Don’t forget, the most important part of drag is to simply be yourself. Don’t let anyone tell you that your look, your style, or your flair isn't beautiful, because darling, you're unique! And uniqueness is exactly what makes our community shine brighter.

Catch you next time, darling, for more pink tutu time travel adventures! Until then, keep twirling, keep sparkling, and remember, you’re fabulous! 😘