Hello my darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, Pink-Tutu.com. It's Emma here, your resident time-travelling ballerina drag queen. 🩰 We’re at it again, darlings, travelling through the decades, serving up a generous helping of fabulous drag history!
This month, we're twirling back to March 3rd, 1963. Remember that little ditty by a band called The Beatles called "Love Me Do?" It was the B-side of their very first single release, "Please Please Me", that very same day! What a time, right?! Imagine seeing that little bit of rock'n'roll history in the making. I'd be rocking that beehive wig like it was nobody's business.
And speaking of wig-tastic history, it wouldn't be a proper Drag Queen History blog post without a glimpse at what was happening on the drag scene. It's important to know that back in 1963, the drag world, especially in the USA, was facing a wave of harassment and raids. Oh darling, imagine trying to have a fabulous time in your sequins and glitter, just to be confronted by some uptight police officers who clearly have no understanding of the joy and beauty that drag brings! 😠
Even with these hurdles, though, drag queens kept on shining. From New York's drag balls to the fabulous drag scene of San Francisco, drag artists were always putting on spectacular shows, defying the negativity, and defying all the 'norms' that tried to hold them down. Honestly, queens back then had balls of steel - they were a shining light for all of us who come after them! 💎
Here’s what’s on in the world of drag:
New York's Balls: 💃 While the legal world wasn’t always kind to drag artists, that didn't stop New York City's drag community. Every weekend, there would be numerous balls happening. It’s fascinating to me to think of all the creative costumes and ideas! It would've been absolutely glorious. And as a little fun fact, darling, the Stonewall riots that led to a whole movement for LGBTQ+ rights actually began at the Stonewall Inn, a place with a close link to the drag community.
The 'Dress Act' in San Francisco: 👮 There was a law called the "Dress Act" which could criminalise men wearing clothing typically associated with women. Honestly, I couldn't even imagine the audacity of that. Luckily for us, San Francisco’s very own drag superstar, Divine, was an unstoppable force of nature! They bravely challenged these unfair laws and even posed in drag in defiance, just so people could see that they weren't going to back down. You're the best, darling, a real inspiration. 💅
So there you have it, darling, another slice of #DragQueenHistory. This period of history was about overcoming and breaking barriers, all while expressing yourselves to the max. Remember those queens, who defied everything, who refused to let anyone take away their voice! Let their story inspire us all to stay true to our own sparkle, our own personality, and let that unique essence shine!
And remember, darlings, my doors are always open to you, here at Pink-Tutu.com! Tell me what you think of today’s trip back in time! What stories, queens, or events inspire you? Let me know down below.
Until next time, my dears, be sure to twirl, strut, and sashay, always with a pink tutu and a whole lotta love. ✨
P.S. You want to stay in the know about everything drag? Sign up for my monthly email newsletters! And, while you’re at it, you can get all my favourite drag queen blogs at www.pink-tutu.com.
With Love & Kisses,
Emma 😘
