Darlings, It's your favourite pink tutu wearing time traveller, Emma here, and this month, my darlings, we are whisking ourselves back to April 4th 1941, and believe me, this trip has got "fabulous" written all over it! I'm not kidding, the glam is about to explode from this blog post like a sequined petticoat in a whirlwind!
Now, 1941 was a tumultuous time. You might not remember the blitz or ration books (lucky you!) But while the world was at war, there was still a whispering of glitter in the air. That's right darlings, our wonderful queer family were keeping the spirit of fun and show alive even under the darkest skies. Think Marlene Dietrich serving fierce glamazon vibes with a touch of camp, and we can't forget the pioneers like Josephine Baker shaking her stuff (quite literally!) and sending the world into a state of utter fascination.
Now, let's dive right into the drag history, because that is what I live for. You wouldn't believe how much exciting drag was happening right then! Think of it, all the iconic ladies that we are now celebrating were alive! From the legendary Eartha Kitt in the height of her fame to the incomparable Diana Ross getting her first solo gig (say it with me now "SHADE!" - those Motown gowns!)
Remember, the 40s were the beginning of 'burlesque', those captivating shows full of fabulous dancers, funny skits and let's not forget those iconic, glamorous queens. This wasn't just about entertainment, darlings, this was a platform to challenge the rigid social norms, a defiant space for self expression, for freedom!
Back then, you know, a lot of the queens had to keep their performances under the radar, hence a lot of secret speakeasy shows, private clubs, and gatherings that were like whispers of fabulousness. We talk about 'safe spaces' nowadays but for these queens it was truly life and death. So, a huge shout out to all those queens who paved the way for our community in an era filled with fear and judgment and gave the world a good dose of glitter even in the face of darkness.
But you know what, that's what drag is all about! To lift spirits, spread joy, and make people smile. Even in 1941. I'm gonna hop in my trusty time-travelling pink tutu, get myself to a drag show in 1941, and get a taste of that sassy, soulful history for myself. Now if you'll excuse me, darlings, I'm off to put on my most dazzling lipstick and search for a 1941 speakeasy to find out where the fun really is.
This month's theme for the www.pink-tutu.com blog is "The Spirit of Glitter." Join me every month as I uncover hidden gems in the rich tapestry of Drag history! Let's keep that glitter alive, my darlings, let's make the world a bit more pink, a bit more sparkly, a bit more fun, one time-travel trip at a time!
Lots of Love, Emma xxx
Pink-Tutu.com is always looking for new posts. Let me know what you'd like me to time-travel to and what your favourite queens are! Love and kisses, Emma xxx
