Hello lovelies! Your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveler is back with another blast from the past! I’m Emma, and this is Pink-Tutu.com, where we delve into the glittering history of drag! Grab a glass of bubbly and your fanciest feathered boa – it’s time for another time-traveling adventure!
Today, we’re taking a whirl through time and landing in a very special date, September 9th, 1940! This particular day marks an important point in history, not just for the world, but for the world of drag. Hold onto your fabulous wigs, darlings, because this story is a real stunner!
I zipped into my magical, time-traveling pink tutu this morning – it's such a cinch to use these days – and I’ve found myself right in the heart of New York City! The air is buzzing with excitement, a hint of war-time tension hangs heavy, but you know, my lovelies, life goes on!
Now, for you history buffs out there, you might be wondering, why the 9th of September? Well, this is the very same day the "Mermaids of Mars" had their big debut in the famous "Gay Nineties Revue" at the Casino Theatre! I mean, darling, “Gay Nineties Revue" – the name says it all! It's a celebration of the era! This show featured all sorts of spectacular talent, but let me tell you, "The Mermaids" stole the show!
For those unfamiliar, “Mermaids” was an act with three beautiful performers: Lily St. Cyr, a gorgeous redhead, Sally Rand, renowned for her feather fan dances, and Rose Marie, known for her sassy vocals and comic timing! Imagine, these ladies dressed to the nines, a spectacle of glamorous artistry! I'd give my sparkly shoes for a front-row seat to their performances, wouldn't you, darling?
As I explored the buzzing streets, I found myself enchanted by the era. Imagine, glamorous shops filled with exquisite gowns, flamboyant hats, and shoes that would make any queen faint. A bit of a throwback compared to the simple fashions of the wartime, don't you think?
The energy of 1940 was captivating, my dears! New York felt like a stage, a vibrant canvas of glamour, where the performers were like living works of art, pushing the boundaries of style and entertainment.
The streets themselves felt like a grand fashion show! It was an incredible contrast, seeing all the glamour in the midst of wartime anxieties. Imagine the escapism these performances offered! Imagine, during a war, a place to forget, to laugh, to celebrate. The power of entertainment in wartime is so inspiring.
And wouldn't you know, my little angels, just as I was starting to get a feel for this particular world of drag, my pink tutu gave a little shimmy and signaled the time to head back!
But before I left, I found myself right next to a gorgeous drag performance happening right outside the theatre! And let me tell you, it was divine! A beautiful young woman dressed to the nines with some show-stopping moves was performing for the crowd! She had a fierce energy, and the whole audience was roaring with laughter and applause! It was a reminder that drag has always been about pushing boundaries, being creative, and spreading joy!
That was it, darlings, my 1940 trip! I'm back to the good old present, with a renewed sense of appreciation for our ancestors in the world of drag, and the endless talent, history, and heart they brought to the stage!
I just love this journey of exploring drag history, don't you, love? It reminds us where we've come from and just how much drag has changed and evolved. We all owe it to our sisters of the past who paved the way.
And let's not forget my mission, my loves! Pink is my power color, and let me tell you, nothing, not even the power of a magical pink tutu, makes me happier than seeing a room full of fabulous queens rocking a stunning pink tutu. This month's challenge: get as many lovely drag performers rocking that beautiful pink shade. Go for the pinkest of pink! I'm going to share pictures on Pink-Tutu.com all month – get your camera ready!
Remember, honey, with a touch of sparkle and a generous sprinkle of pink, the world becomes our stage!
Until next time, stay fierce and wear that pink tutu with pride!
Yours in sequins and sashes, Emma xx
