Hello my darlings! Emma here, back from another fabulous jaunt through the annals of drag history! This month, I've sashayed my way back to 4th April 1936, a date bursting with history and glamour. Let me tell you, darlings, this was a time where drag was truly a subversive art form. Think daring and dangerous. 🤫
Now, picture this. I'm standing in the heart of London, my dazzling pink tutu sparkling in the fading light of a late afternoon. I've just popped out of my trusty time-travelling tutu, a bit breathless after that time-slip. I’m ready to soak up the vintage atmosphere.
First stop, a spot of afternoon tea! (One simply cannot resist, darlings!) A vintage tea shop called the "Tea Cozy" beckons. A cuppa and a slice of Victoria sponge – just delightful! All whilst planning my drag-venture. I decide to see a real show! Back then, drag was an underground, thrilling spectacle, mostly enjoyed in secret cabarets, and underground clubs. Imagine! A little peek into history, so much more clandestine!
This era, as I mentioned, was a thrillingly clandestine period for drag. It wasn’t yet on a glamorous theatrical stage like it is today. Yet, even back then, queens like this were already pushing the boundaries of social norms, celebrating their individuality and art form.
So, imagine this, darlings, I head over to a place called the “Rainbow Room" (Yes! I think this must have been the origin of our fabulous drag family!) - think, speakeasy-style nightclub. It's a dark and smoky space, with hidden secrets in every corner. Music spills out onto the streets - bluesy rhythms, a little jazz. A true underground haven, darlings.
Inside, a world of revelry unfolds. A dazzling display of sequins and feathers - quite the scene. I take a seat at the bar, swirling my champagne, taking in the crowd. There's this beautiful lady, hair styled into glamorous waves and she's performing! With a bold stage persona, and a voice that vibrates with soulful conviction, she captivated the crowd.
Even though these acts weren’t technically “drag” like what we know today, they’re clearly part of the larger landscape. These were people dressing in a way that pushed boundaries, playing with identity and challenging convention, daring to be different. It’s these queens, though little-known now, that pave the way for today's vibrant drag scene.
Oh, my darlings! The energy of this time, you just have to see it! Just imagine the courage needed to dress as you wanted and perform for those who looked down upon your style. A celebration of defiance, beauty, and artistic expression!
But here's a funny thing. This time travel isn’t just about the history. This journey back to the '30s reminded me, more than ever, how far drag has come. Now, the stage lights of drag are so bright! Think, “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” those fierce competitions! Now, it's mainstream! That makes my heart so proud.
As for myself? I've got my eye on this vintage tutu for next month’s travel! It’s pure velvet, darlings, and such a stunning shade of deep burgundy. I know you all adore seeing me in my bright pink, but even I need a change of pace.
Of course, there’s always time for a new pink tutu – and my quest to get everyone wearing one. (We’ll never stop striving for that! 🌸)
Don’t forget to check out my social media pages, darlings, for my adventures. You can see me on Instagram at @emmaspinktutu. Follow me! You know I'll keep on posting pictures and videos from my time travels - those glorious moments in the history of drag.
Until next time, darlings, and always remember - a little pink goes a long way! 💕
