Hello my gorgeous darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Time Travel Blog, your one-stop shop for all things fabulous, and most importantly, pink tutu-rific! Your girl Emma here, fresh from a time travel jaunt, and trust me, this one was a right hoot!
So, buckle up buttercups, grab a glass of bubbly (or a cuppa if you're feeling a bit "prim" today!), and let's sashay back toā¦drum roll pleaseā¦September 9th, 1939!
Now, before I get swept away by the glitter and glamour, I have to admit, the air felt a tadā¦heavy. You know that kind of unspoken tension you feel right before the curtain goes up? Yep, that. 1939, as you may know, marked the start of a tumultuous period, but don't worry my dears, we're going to keep things light and positive. We are fabulous creatures after all!
I made my entrance in my most magnificent, and I mean MAGNIFICENT, pink tutu - think shimmering sequins, a billowing net, and feathers that would make a peacock weep with envy! Just the thing to inject some sparkle into a rather dreary world!
My first stop? A tiny, unassuming pub tucked away in a Derbyshire village, the same place where my grandmother ( bless her soul! ) told me her drag alter ego "Shirley Shimmer" was once known to entertain the troops during World War One. I tell you, that woman had moves! She even got the lads singing "Daisy, Daisy" while doing the Charleston - truly iconic!
Stepping into the pub was like entering a time capsule. It was warm, filled with the aroma of sawdust and Guinness, and full of locals telling stories over pints and pints! The regulars, who at first looked rather dubious of a pink tutu-wearing stranger, soon warmed up to my charming persona, especially after my "A Little Less Conversation, A Little More Action" number. The place went wild, I tell you!
That evening I ventured out to one of the London Theatres. Let me tell you, 1939 had some brilliant performers - it was the golden age of cabaret and vaudeville. The costumes alone were worth a trip! Imagine a swirling blend of flapper fashion with glamorous Parisian styles! It was like watching a "Great Gatsby" themed ball. They say drag originated with theatrical makeup. There was so much theatrical style back then! My makeup brush just about went into a frenzy with excitement!
After the show, I snuck a peek at some of the performers backstage. It's a real honour meeting someone who's on their own creative journey - whether it's someone new in the world of performance or someone well established, thereās always so much to learn. I had a good chat with one performer named āBlossomā, who shared his tricks for applying eyeliner, a true professional!
One thing that surprised me was the strong presence of ādragā in the daily lives of ordinary people. I mean, think about it! From the flamboyant and stylish hats, the use of makeup, and the performance aspect of everyday lives, all these things, even today, continue to fuel the power and creativity within the art of Drag.
But it wasnāt all glamorous gowns and champagne bubbles. As I was waltzing back to my hotel after a delightful afternoon tea ( oh my god, those clotted cream scones!), I was met with an ominous radio broadcast. War was declared!
For a fleeting moment, the dazzling lights and melodies seemed to fade, replaced by a sobering silence. It's a stark reminder that even in the midst of sequins and laughter, life throws curveballs. But, just like then, we have the power to bring back the glitter! Letās stand strong and embrace the light! We need more pink tutus and more sparkle than ever!
You know what my motto is? "If life throws you a war, grab your biggest pink tutu, your best friend, and turn that tragedy into a flamboyant ball of happiness!". Thatās what Iām all about.
Now my darlings, it's time for me to hit the studio for my next drag show ( think "glitter cannons", disco balls and of course, the best tutu London has ever seen). Until next month, keep spreading the love, rock that pink tutu, and remember, life is a performance!
See you next month!
Lots of love and sparkles,
Emma xoxo
P.S Don't forget to check out our website, www.pink-tutu.com! Weāve got amazing pink tutus, beauty tips, drag performance schedules, and so much more. Youāre in for a right treat, lovelies!
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Remember, a little glitter and glam goes a long way!