#DragQueenHistory during 1959 06 June

Post 474: Ooh La La! June 1959 - A Tutu-rific Time Trip To The Glittering Past!

Darling, oh darling, gather 'round my dearest Tutu-Lovers! Emma here, fresh from a sensational time trip and positively overflowing with fabulous gossip! This month's pink-tastic adventure took me all the way back to the shimmering 6th of June, 1959. Can you believe it, babes? The year Elvis Presley was ruling the airwaves and hula hoops were the must-have fashion accessory!

I must confess, I arrived in my time-travelling pink tutu just a tad giddy with excitement! Picture me, strutting down a sunny London street, all shimmering pink silk and tulle, and let me tell you, those bobby soxers practically fainted with awe! It's funny, the way times change! Back in the '50s, a tutu-clad babe was definitely a sight to behold, a total eye-catcher! But these days, we’re rocking feather boas, wigs of unimaginable size and platform boots, darling, the future's truly bright for fabulousness!

Anyway, let's get down to business! You see, I always pack my diary full of '59 happenings before each time-travelling escapade. After all, wouldn’t it be tragically chic to land in the past without a clue? Honestly, my dear, that wouldn’t be happening! Not with me, at least. So I knew precisely what to expect - an evening of dazzling delights at the iconic ‘The Windmill Theatre Club’.

This London gem was known for its sensational floor shows and you just couldn't find a more glamorous spot in the whole city! Let me paint a picture for you: velvet red curtains, sparkling chandeliers, the intoxicating scent of champagne… absolutely divine! It was all so deliciously campy, my heart simply soared! The '50s ladies, oh how they loved their glam. You could practically see the excitement sparking in their eyes as they arrived, their gowns trailing behind them like sparkling dreams!

As I entered the venue, I knew that a truly theatrical treat awaited! From my spot at a table in the luxurious downstairs cabaret, I witnessed some truly stunning performances. The Windmill had these fabulous ‘show girls’ who graced the stage with confidence, every strut and flick of a leg a sheer delight to watch! But here's the catch - these beauties had the best sense of humour too, oh, my sweet! Imagine: comedy sketches, songs about naughty bunnies, and a dash of tasteful burlesque mixed into the cabaret - oh, the laughter! I couldn't stop giggling, it was simply pure joyous delight.

You know, while all the performances were fantastic, there was a real charm to these shows, a kind of 'anything goes' atmosphere! It felt truly carefree and deliciously daring - a delightful little reminder of why drag is so magical. We're all about creating these fantastical spaces, celebrating creativity and expressing ourselves freely! Oh, it simply fills my soul with joy to know we carry on this beautiful tradition in different ways today.

Speaking of tradition, imagine my surprise when, just as the curtains were closing, I saw a drag queen named ‘Dolly Darling’ making a dramatic entrance onto the stage! Now, Dolly Darling wasn’t just any queen, my dears! She was one of the first drag performers to bring that special ‘Camp’ vibe to British entertainment, making her truly legendary! Oh, how I wished I could have stayed a little longer! Just think, a backstage chat, swapping makeup tips, discussing the challenges and joys of performing – what a dream!

Sadly, though, my time was up. So, with a sprinkle of magic pink fairy dust, I twirled my way back to my own time, my heart buzzing with a fabulous mix of excitement and nostalgia! And, let me tell you, you wouldn't believe the ideas I’m bursting with! Imagine this: my very own '50s inspired floor show, tutus galore, cheeky dance routines, and some deliciously camp comedy – oh, I just know it'll be divine!

But that, my dears, is for another blog post! For now, I must dash off! The world of fashion beckons and I have a pink sequined tutu in my sights! So keep your eyes peeled for my next adventure, because believe me, it's going to be spectacularly stylish! Oh, and don’t forget: If you haven't yet, try adding a splash of pink to your life - you just might be surprised how fabulous it makes you feel! Remember, darling, there’s no wrong way to be you - so get out there, rock your confidence, and spread that pink love!

See you soon,

Emma xoxo

P.S. Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for all things drag!

#DragQueenHistory during 1959 06 June