Hiya darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time-traveler, bringing you another fabulous instalment of Pink Tutu Time Travel from the pages of my beloved blog, www.pink-tutu.com! As always, darling, this month's journey takes us right back in time, to a year overflowing with pink-tastic opportunities. So grab a cuppa, pop on your finest feathered fascinator, and let’s sashay back to 1950!
This month, my magical pink tutu took me on a grand adventure right back to 3rd March 1950. Now, let's be honest, the 1950s weren't exactly known for their glamorous drag scenes, but darling, you'd be surprised! While it might not have been the era of extravagant stage shows, there was definitely a vibrant queer underground bubbling away, with secret gatherings and hidden talents just waiting to burst out.
My time-traveling tutu whisked me away to the heart of New York City, the pulse of the drag world, even back then! As I strutted through the streets, my pink tutu bouncing like a fluffy, pastel cloud, I noticed a bustling energy that could only be described as the fabulous beginnings of what would later become the drag phenomenon we all know and love today.
This particular evening, a group of dapper, dressed-to-the-nines gents gathered at a private club called "The Pied Piper." And darling, they weren't just any lads, no! These were the founding members of one of the first drag clubs ever in New York City – the Club de Femme! It was absolutely divine! Their flamboyant attire, sharp tailoring, and perfectly coiffed hair made me swoon. You know, a little bit of camp, a little bit of elegance – they just oozed a chic confidence that was utterly infectious!
I spent the entire evening absorbing the scene – it was like witnessing the spark that would eventually ignite a whole global movement. While these gentlemen might not have been "drag queens" as we know them today, they were truly trailblazers, daring to challenge social norms with their fabulous selves. Their existence, and the secret spaces they created for themselves, set the stage for future generations of queens to emerge and, let's be honest, to totally steal the spotlight!
While I couldn't find any records of drag performances on the actual 3rd of March 1950, this era was bubbling with creative energy, and by 1955, there would be at least five drag balls held yearly in NYC. Now, that's what I call a drag dynasty in the making, don't you agree, dearies?
To really immerse myself in this era's energy, I decided to indulge in some of the fashion highlights of the decade. Picture it: flowing dresses in shades of dusty rose, emerald green, and shimmering aqua, accessorised with elaborate headwear and bold jewellery – a fashion concoction worthy of a fabulous drag ball. I even scored a few vintage pink gloves at a hidden shop on Bleecker Street, just like a true New York fashion icon.
But you know what I discovered, darling? The 1950s drag scene wasn't all about the extravagant – it was just as much about community. These early queens were a chosen family, finding support and acceptance within a society that often rejected them. They carved out a world for themselves, fueled by their shared passion for expression and performance. And their bravery paved the way for generations of drag performers to find their voice and to celebrate themselves - something I will always applaud!
Now, I can't just visit a historical era without getting a feel for its theatrical scene. Luckily for me, on March 12th, 1950, "Guys and Dolls" opened at the Forty-Sixth Street Theatre, one of Broadway's most coveted locations. Oh, darling, it was divine! The musical numbers were dazzling, the costumes a riot of colour and energy, and the energy – let's just say it had that certain je ne sais quoi!
Of course, being the fashion fiend I am, the costumes absolutely blew my tutu-wearing mind. The use of sequins, feathers, and bright colours were truly ahead of their time! You could say it inspired my love for a little pink sparkle, wouldn’t you? giggles I have to admit, though, even the "Guys and Dolls" outfits couldn’t compete with my time-traveling pink tutu! That is one statement piece!
From bustling ballrooms to vibrant backstreet scenes, my 1950 journey was absolutely jam-packed with fascinating moments and glimpses into the dawn of the drag scene. And even though the era was a far cry from the fabulous, diverse, and hugely impactful world of drag we have today, the pioneers of this time paved the way, reminding us of the timeless power of creativity, self-expression, and – dare I say it – the beauty of a pink tutu!
Until next month, darling, keep your fabulous flags flying high and never stop exploring the vibrant history of drag. As for me, well, I've got another vintage pink tutu to find! Stay sparkly, my lovelies, and never stop celebrating your inner queen!
Emma, The Pink Tutu Time Traveller
