Hello darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, back with another episode of Pink Tutu Travels! As always, I'm coming to you live from my sparkly time-travelling tutu (it's got a new sequin trim, by the way! Darling, it's a stunner!)
This month, we're hopping back in time to 1 January 1943. Fancy a trip back to the forties, my dears? Hold on tight, because we're about to step into a world of war-time rationing, jazz, and of course, the fabulous world of drag!
Now, I know what you're thinking - 1943? World War II was still raging, darling! You'd think it wouldn't be the most fabulous time for a bit of drag, wouldn't you? But let me tell you, the human spirit is a fierce and sparkly thing, and those queens of the 40s, they didn't let a little thing like a global conflict stop them from expressing themselves, my darlings!
Just think of it! While the world was grappling with the darkness of war, the drag scene was blossoming in its own way. And honestly, if we needed a bit of dazzling escapism, well, who better to deliver it than those flamboyant and fantastic queens!
First stop, my dears, we're off to New York City, the fabulous heart of the American drag scene! You see, despite wartime hardship, the gay underground scene continued to thrive in New York City. There were places like the "Cafe Society," known for its underground, integrated shows and a welcoming atmosphere. The shows may have been small and intimate, but those drag performers, they packed a powerful punch. They were bringing colour and joy into a world that desperately needed it.
The wartime atmosphere even saw an increase in the popularity of drag acts in other cities too, darling. Places like Los Angeles and San Francisco also had thriving gay underground scenes, full of sassy performers pushing the boundaries of expression and using their talents to raise spirits.
Speaking of pushing boundaries, it was also in 1943 that the American drag icon, "Jackie Coogan", achieved notoriety. He became known for his incredible comedic routines in his "Woman in drag" persona. This was groundbreaking! He even performed at The Rainbow Room in New York! A testament to the sheer audacity of those who dared to challenge the status quo. What an inspiration!
But of course, the drag world wasn't limited to America, darling! Over in my beloved London, despite wartime blackouts and rationing, drag was very much alive! While many drag balls and performances were held in private, hidden away in safe spaces, the true spirit of the drag world shone through in these clandestine gatherings. Imagine, all those lovely ladies in their glamorous gowns, meeting under the dim lights of wartime London, with a wink and a giggle! Simply fabulous!
We've also got to acknowledge those brave queens performing at cabarets and shows in the military camps and basements during this time! These incredible performers were keeping those spirits up, giving a bit of joy and escapism to the men serving on the front lines!
So you see, my dears, the 1940s, despite the hardship, were a testament to the strength of drag! These early drag queens, they really paved the way for us today, using their wit, their creativity, and their love for the spotlight to inject a dose of fun into a sometimes harsh world. And darling, that is something worth celebrating!
As for me, darling, I'm off to add some glittery sparkle to a time machine in my local Derbyshire craft store. It needs a makeover, it's not glamorous enough to be spotted by the locals. Then, it’s off to my monthly show - I’m performing at a fabulous new local drag night, “The Tutus & Tiaras Takeover”! So if you fancy joining me for an evening of laughter, sequins, and sparkling ballet-inspired costumes, come along! Let's make some memories, darlings. After all, remember, we’re all in this together, and we've always got each other, don’t we?
As ever, darlings, please send me all your questions, comments, and your love. I read every single message! I can't wait to chat with you soon! Now, go get yourselves some glittery headbands and find your own fab inner queen!
Love,
Emma
xxx
