#DragQueenHistory during 1965 08 August

Darlings,

Welcome back to the Pink Tutu Time Travel blog, where history comes to life in a whirl of tulle and glitter! As always, I’m Emma, your fabulous Derbyshire lass, always on the hunt for a fabulous show and an even more fabulous pink tutu!

Today, my dear readers, we’re swirling back to August 8th 1965. It’s the peak of summer, the sun’s shining (even here in dreary Derbyshire, you can feel a little warmth!), and you know what that means? It’s time to grab your pinkest tutus and let’s dive into some fabulous history!

For my last adventure, I twirled through 1974, landing right in the middle of New York’s drag scene – the energy was simply electric! But today, dear readers, I’m embarking on a rather different adventure, a journey across the globe. And let me tell you, I’m feeling a bit of the jet lag!

Our journey starts in the magical city of Tokyo! The Japanese capital was buzzing with life in 1965. It’s always fascinating to see the evolution of drag across the globe – the way it transforms, blossoms, and takes on its own unique personality in different cultures. Now, whilst the western world was embracing “camp”, the world of Japanese Drag was exploring theatrical spectacle and traditional kabuki traditions – something we don’t often think of in connection to Drag today!

While I couldn’t catch a live show, the Taikokukan, Tokyo's famous national theater, was showcasing stunning performances that fused these theatrical styles. The costumes alone were works of art! Think swirling silks, magnificent headpieces, and elaborate makeup. You can imagine me just staring in wonder! The Taikokukan wasn't just a place to see a show – it was an experience! And for those brave enough to perform there, the chance to be part of something so grand and culturally significant is a real privilege!

Now, you'll be wanting to know, how do tutus fit into all of this? Well, imagine those iconic traditional Japanese robes adorned with extravagant feather and tulle trim, dancing on a grand stage! The theatricality is simply captivating. This inspired me to incorporate some stunning, dramatic embellishments to my own wardrobe. I can already see myself gracing a stage with the help of some luxurious embellishments on a custom-made pink tutu!

From the vibrant, bustling streets of Tokyo, my pink tutu whisked me away to sunny Texas! Now, I know what you’re thinking – Texas, 1965? Wasn’t that the era of all things wholesome and cowboy boots? But guess what? You might be surprised to learn about a young lady by the name of Holly Wood. You know, with the “wood” spelled differently – they always like to be creative with spelling in Texas! 😉

Holly was a drag queen living in a small Texas town, working nights as a dancer in a local club! Can you imagine, dear readers? Being a drag queen in such a conservative area would have required so much courage, so much creativity, and an endless supply of fabulous! That is something I really admire.

What really struck me was that, in an age when "gay rights" wasn't even a concept, there was this fabulous woman shining a light on her identity. She’d put on a dazzling performance, with glitter, feathers, and an amazing wig, while still hiding who she truly was during the day. It was like a secret society for fabulous individuals, who used the power of drag to shine through, while simultaneously remaining cautious about being discovered. The sheer courage, it really made me appreciate how far drag has come, but also reminded me that it is important to be mindful of where we come from and remember the risks and sacrifices that our ancestors made!

Back in England, 1965, we're finally seeing a glimmer of hope! This year, the first gay rights rally was held in London! While things were certainly not perfect, this marked a monumental step forward in acceptance and inclusion. This, my dear readers, is proof that even in times when acceptance is far off, courage and activism always have a place!

The drag scene in London wasn't as flashy as those New York clubs, but you could find local performers bringing a taste of New York to London pubs and nightclubs, all with that same spark of liberation and excitement that continues to make the scene so unique and dynamic!

However, just a year later, in 1966, homosexuality was still technically illegal! The situation really brings into focus just how much has changed over the last half-century, especially regarding freedom of expression. The queens I saw on my tour of the English clubs really embodied this - with grit and determination to shine despite the challenges!

It’s been a wild ride! My whirlwind journey has been an inspiring reminder that the power of drag has always been to be bold, to express yourself freely, and to bring people together. Every decade, every country, drag evolves, adapting to the cultural nuances and making them its own! I have a real appreciation for all the talented queens who walked this path before me.

From the elaborate theatricality of Japanese Kabuki to the daring acts of early drag queens in the US and UK, drag truly showcases how empowering and vibrant it can be – a testament to creativity, courage and sheer fabulousness! I can only imagine what drag will be like 50 years from now!

So, I say this, darlings – Keep the spirit alive! Don’t be afraid to be yourself! Let’s continue to celebrate the beauty of expression, let’s keep that pink tutu spirit going! And who knows? You might just see a time-traveling pink tutu dancing with you on stage someday!

Remember, you can check out our website at www.pink-tutu.com for more on Drag history, fashion tips, and amazing performance stories!

Until next month,

XOXO,

Emma