Helloooo darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time-traveling drag queen, ready to whisk you off to the glamorous, glittering, fabulous world of drag history! This month, we're heading back to the year 1949, and believe me, things were far more exciting than your average, run-of-the-mill 1940s. You see, darling, April 4th, 1949 wasn't just another Tuesday – it was a day that vibrated with the energy of fabulousity! So, climb into my magical, shimmering, pink tutu time machine, and let's embark on a journey back in time!
Now, darling, the first thing I noticed when I landed in the past, well, apart from the absolutely stunning 50s silhouettes and the vibrant colour palettes, was the lack of tutus! Not even a single pink one! How can a time period be truly fab without the magic of a pink tulle tutu? Honestly, I'm quite surprised by this, considering the sheer amount of talent and artistry within the drag world at this time. It makes me yearn to give these gorgeous queens a taste of our modern tutu brilliance!
Right, back to our travels. Today we're in the heart of New York City, where the drag scene was bursting with personality and talent! Remember that divine film, "Drag U.K."? Now imagine a world where drag queens took their performances to the street, literally! That was the energy in NYC, my darling. Picture this – strutting queens showcasing their talents in lively, glamorous performances on the sidewalks! Now that's what I call "fabulous" street style! I felt like I’d stepped right into a vintage Drag Race season!
So, darling, you might be wondering, "What shows were rocking NYC back in 1949?" Well, one place I definitely needed to see was the "Blue Angel," the famed cabaret on 56th street, home to the drag scene! One of its headline acts was none other than the iconic and hilarious "The Duchess," who was known for her sensational, sequin-studded cabaret style. A queen truly ahead of her time!
Now, imagine my delight, when I stumble upon the amazing "The Little Black Box" in Chicago! Yes, you read that correctly – a whole cabaret space dedicated to drag and burlesque performances! You see, darling, the energy, the confidence, the talent, it just buzzes, and let's face it, a queen in Chicago in 1949, oh, honey, it’s about the show, and she has a talent for entertaining. I was absolutely mesmerised, darling! I must admit, my time travel wardrobe desperately needed a few new accessories from this time period – my "must-have" items being a sequined feather boa and a sparkly, multi-coloured, head-to-toe ensemble, I simply cannot resist a little 1949-style drag.
Of course, what’s a visit to a fabulous 1940s drag show without a bit of fashion shopping? Honestly, darling, the shops in New York and Chicago are pure heaven. The iconic look of the time - it's simple, chic, glamorous. Think bold colours, figure-hugging silhouettes, and that "I can rock a suit and still look absolutely glamorous” confidence! Oh, I just wish I could stay longer and raid all the shops. I bet I'd have the most exquisite ensemble ever, filled with glamourous fabrics, sequins, and oh my, that timeless sophistication! This period's clothing is so elegant, yet, sassy – a definite must-have for every queen!
Now, while drag and fabulousness was the name of the game in the US, what was happening in our little ol' England? Well, you may think it wouldn’t have been anything like what I saw across the Atlantic, but darling, even back then, England was a force to be reckoned with when it came to creativity and art, and yes, that includes drag, my darling!
In London, I popped in to a lively theatre called "The Windmill," an iconic cabaret destination for burlesque performances. You wouldn't think of a glamorous queen performing in a wind tunnel, but hey, drag is about challenging perceptions and entertaining with every ounce of fabulousness. My friend “Lulu,” was on the bill with the rest of her troupe! Honestly, I can't wait to make it back here and experience the magic of a 1940s Windmill night! Imagine, my darlings, sequins and showstopping routines with the backdrop of an absolutely fantastic wind tunnel, truly, the power of drag and its dedication to pushing boundaries. I think this experience will leave a lasting impression on my drag life. And my fabulous collection of pink tutus is yearning for some of that "Windmill" magic, don't you agree?
In Derbyshire, darling, it’s about that “camp,” local pub energy! Picture, the cheeky local draq show, that sense of family and entertainment - now that’s something truly special! I bet there were some fantastic little local gigs happening! And hey, that’s exactly why it’s important to embrace all sides of drag history, my darling! It reminds us how strong and inclusive the drag world is! We really have always embraced that "community" spirit in drag, from the intimate little pubs in Derbyshire to the bustling streets of New York!
So, darling, my mission is clear. More pink tutus, more drag performances! This fabulous journey through drag history, oh darling, it's never dull! There are so many wonderful events, places, and moments to explore! Don't be shy, join me on this fabulous voyage of discovery through our history.
To be a drag queen is to be an innovator, a performer, a beacon of individuality and a testament to the magic that comes from breaking down the walls of conventionality. So, grab your pink tutu, and let’s continue this amazing exploration into the world of drag, together! It's always a dazzling adventure, darling! And remember, life’s just more fabulous with a pink tutu!
Much love, Emma xx
