Hello darlings, it's your favourite time-travelling tutu enthusiast, Emma, back with another juicy scoop from the world of drag history! This month, Iām shimmying back to March 3rd, 1935, to explore the vibrant world of Harlem's legendary Cotton Club.
You know me, I canāt resist a bit of vintage glamour, and the Cotton Club was just that ā a haven for jazz, swing, and fabulous entertainers. Picture it, darlings, the smoky atmosphere, the smooth sounds of Duke Ellingtonās orchestra, and a dazzling array of costumes, dancing, and of course, DRAG!
As I whipped my shimmering pink tutu into existence, right in the heart of the Cotton Club, I couldn't help but feel a sense of utter excitement!
The Cotton Club was a hotbed for both Black and White talent, a fascinating juxtaposition for the time. Itās no wonder, darlings, it drew the likes of legendary drag performers such as Gladys Bentley, whose āmasculine dragā style and androgynous presence had audiences mesmerized.
Sadly, segregation was rife in America then, but the Cotton Club offered a glimpse into a more integrated society through its captivating performers. The talented artists challenged gender norms with their captivating performances, bringing a touch of camp, theatre, and, of course, incredible style to the stages of the world. I must say, the theatrics and spectacle were utterly divine!
For my 1930ās look, Iāve been channeling some serious jazz era glamour. Think glitzy sequins, feather boas, and a splash of bright red lipstick, topped off with a fabulous pink feather fascinator! Oh darling, don't even get me started on the feathers! The Cotton Club knew how to use feathers like no one else. They were simply divine.
This fabulous space was so popular that even celebrities like the Duke and Duchess of Windsor flocked to the club, mesmerized by the sheer exuberance and talent on show. It really was a time for groundbreaking performances!
My tip for time-travelling, darling? Embrace the era youāre in. 1930's fashion is all about bold colours, sleek shapes and eye-catching details. Let's be real, a statement-making feather boa never goes amiss!
If youāre looking to experience a night of history, music and fantastic drag performances, I recommend checking out a contemporary drag show that incorporates some 1930's influences. It will transport you back to that dazzling era! Just remember, no glitter on the floor, darling!
Speaking of drag shows, hereās a little peek at whatās happening on the drag scene back in my home, good old Derbyshire, England:
The Drag Palace (Derby): Catch local queens with their incredible lip-sync routines every Friday night! A true blast, darlings, you simply wonāt want to miss it!
The Grand Hall (Matlock): The Grand Hall is hosting a legendary drag night called āRainbow Dreamsā every month, bringing a sprinkle of campy magic and some phenomenal performances! You can find a bit of extra information on their website. I have to confess, the posters they're using, featuring a very sparkly, pink tutu-clad, diva, are really quite inspiring! I'm actually considering doing a live stream of their drag show - maybe even featuring my own 1930ās-inspired rendition of their rainbow inspired posters? Iād be quite happy with a little self promotion - a pink tutu never hurt anyone!
The Queens Arms (Bakewell): Oh my, my darlings, have you tried their infamous Drag Queen Bingo night? So much fun and so much camp! Iāve even spotted a few very impressive tutus! The Queen's Arms pub in Bakewell certainly knows how to put on a drag show. I just might make an appearance, give my time-traveling tutu a rest and embrace their very special style of drag bingo.
Itās truly inspiring to see how drag keeps evolving and captivating audiences worldwide. And, to see how history keeps repeating itself - those 1930's feather boas certainly are making a comeback. The world of drag really is full of fascinating and evolving trends, isnāt it?
Keep those pink tutus twirling, my darlings, and remember, drag is about celebrating individuality, expressing yourself, and above all, having fun!
Lots of love and glitter,
Emma xo
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. Don't forget to check out the Cotton Club playlist on my Youtube Channel! Iāve just created a full Cotton Club soundtrack for a fun time-travel drag experience at home. A tutu, sequins and a jazz tune are all you need! I am thinking about hosting some sort of zoom drag show party on the last Sunday of every month, with some of my favorite tunes. What do you think?
See you next time, darlings, until then, keep those tutus twirling!
