Hello my darling dears! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back again with another sparkling slice of drag history. This month, I’ve pirouetted my way back to a most fabulous era: September 1936! Imagine, my loves, the roaring 20s have given way to a new decade of glitz and glamour, and I’m here to give you the lowdown on what’s hot in the world of drag!
Firstly, let me tell you about my sensational travel outfit for this escapade. I donned my most majestic, hot pink, sequined tutu, sparkling like a thousand tiny disco balls. My custom-made bodice, complete with strategically placed ruffles, was crafted from the most luxurious pink silk I could find – just picture an actual cloud but in the most fabulous shade of pink imaginable, and that’s what I was rocking! My feather boa, the epitome of avian elegance, fluttered as I traversed through the time stream, sending shivers of excitement down my spine (and who knows, maybe down a few other spines too – I never fail to make an entrance).
Now, imagine, darling, the vibrant atmosphere of 1936! The world was captivated by the sounds of jazz, swing, and the whispers of impending war. Yet, in this turbulent landscape, the world of drag and vaudeville thrived. Let’s dive in, shall we?
A Whirlwind of Vaudeville:
Across the pond in New York City, my fellow queens were holding court on stages both grand and humble. I found myself swept up in the captivating world of the Palace Theatre. This legendary vaudeville haven played host to an extraordinary array of talent, including legendary drag performers like Julian Eltinge. Just picture a handsome gent, dapper and debonair, in the most ravishing gowns imaginable. He’s singing, dancing, cracking jokes, and turning heads - all whilst seamlessly navigating the tricky waters of gender identity! That’s true vaudeville glamour at its finest, my lovelies!
Across the US, Julian Eltinge was a force of nature, commanding attention with his flawless impersonations of women, and I, being a HUGE admirer of the art of illusion, found myself mesmerised by his masterful performances! His presence in drag was undeniable – a stark testament to the enduring power of artistry and performance in a world that wasn’t quite ready for such captivating spectacle!
And speaking of captivating spectacle, how about the iconic Dame Nellie Melba in Australia?! Her career spanned decades, reaching its peak right here in 1936, and let me tell you, this woman’s voice was divine, echoing through grand opera houses with its crystalline clarity. The woman could command a stage and she did it all in the most extravagant, feminine attire! Dame Nellie Melba was, in essence, the drag queen of the opera world! A true queen of camp!
Drag Across the World:
In Britain, I felt the magic of the burgeoning drag scene at a Music Hall in London. I felt a thrill down my pink-tutu-clad spine! It was brimming with performers pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and delighting audiences! There was "Little Tich", who had everyone in stitches with his unique brand of physical comedy, complete with hilarious dance routines, and “Dan Leno”, a legendary figure who had audiences rolling in the aisles with his cheeky charm and quick wit! Both these men were pioneering the landscape of drag in London!
From the heart of Derbyshire, my humble roots, I felt a surge of pride to witness how British audiences embraced this incredible art form, making it a vibrant part of their culture. These legendary acts paved the way for generations of performers, including myself, darling, and they hold a special place in our hearts, right alongside our love for the color pink!
Drag on the Street and in the Theatre:
You see, darling, it's not just on the grand stage, the glamour unfolds. I popped into the most delightful shops on Oxford Street in London. There, I witnessed the true glamour of street style: from the dapper young gents flaunting the latest trends to ladies with impeccable hats and the most stunning flapper dresses!
And then I took a seat in the charming atmosphere of a tea room, my darling, a little slice of London's social scene, where I was lucky to overhear snippets of conversation about everything from the latest music, and theatre productions to gossip, fashion, and love.
These were truly fabulous times to be a queen, a drag queen, and just a woman living her truth! It's a testament to the power of art, self-expression, and the unwavering belief that life is a grand performance! Remember my lovelies, the world is a stage! You can put on your biggest and brightest, and never forget the ultimate power of pink!
My next stop will be a glittering time, my dearies, but for now, I hope I've brought you a bit of sparkle from 1936. Remember, I post my time travel chronicles once a month here on www.pink-tutu.com, and make sure you check out the latest blog, my darlings!
Until next time, keep it fabulous and remember to never underestimate the transformative power of a pink tutu!
XOXO
Emma
P.S Don't forget, darling, that you can join my vibrant pink tutu world, my lovelies. Get out there and spread the message. PINK is the power of love, beauty, and, most importantly, glamour! Get ready to spread your wings and dance!
P.P.S I’ve been looking into funding options to support the drag queens and the vibrant scenes that have helped make the time traveling in this pink tutu possible, so don’t be surprised if there is an “Emma’s Pink Tutu Fund” fundraiser in your area soon. This fundraiser aims to bring a sprinkle of drag history and glamour to all, making everyone a star in their own right! This would bring more joy, laughter and, dare I say it, more pink to the world!
