Hiya darlings! It’s your girl Emma, reporting live from… well, actually, it’s not live exactly, more retroactively live because I’m about to tell you about a fabulous trip through time in my magical pink tutu! This month, I’m whisked back to the glorious 1970s, specifically the 10th of October, 1974.
And where better to find a fabulous drag scene than the city that never sleeps? New York City, baby! Let me tell you, the energy here is electric! It’s almost as though the city is pulsing to the beat of the disco, and every street corner is a runway, every building a stage.
The air hums with a blend of grit, glamour, and something you could only experience in New York; it’s got this fierce, exhilarating buzz that’s as intoxicating as a sip of the finest champagne!
Tonight, however, I’m heading to the most exciting place of all: the drag scene! I’ve heard whispers of this incredible nightclub called The Mineshaft. Apparently, it’s the place to be, bursting with talent and brimming with, well, mine shafts! (Don't worry, darlings, no literal mine shafts here - though the fashion will certainly leave you in a state of awe!).
The moment I step inside, the music wraps around me, this incredible mix of disco and glam-rock that’s practically urging me to sashay. The air is thick with glitter, sweat, and laughter - the most delightful combination! It's a beautiful blur of bodies dancing in fabulous outfits, some reminiscent of your quintessential 70s style with bell-bottoms, platform boots, and maybe a bit of sequined fringe. Others are even more daring, a mix of campy couture that wouldn't look out of place on today's drag runways. It’s an intoxicating spectacle, a glorious celebration of everything fabulous!
But wait, what’s this? As I’m getting lost in the energy, I spot a performer on stage! It’s… wait for it… Divine! Oh. My. God! The legend, the icon, the star of John Waters’ films, the divine queen of camp! Dressed in a beautiful gown that seems to be made of spun sugar and sprinkled with stardust, Divine is commanding the stage with a voice that’s as unique and electrifying as a lightning storm. Her humor is both dark and delightful, the audience hanging on her every word.
This, darling, is pure drag history. The energy of this show, the beauty, the passion, and of course, the sheer camp - it all coalesces into this moment of true artistry, of the unbridled celebration of individuality. The sheer force of Divine's performance left me speechless.
I'm getting lost in the moment - this scene, the energy, the fashion - everything is just so captivating! The audience is roaring with laughter and applause, this wonderful sense of togetherness in this packed little club, celebrating the beauty of drag and the fabulousness of being yourself.
And while I’m still reeling from the magnificence of the performance, I meet another queen who totally blows my mind: Holly Woodlawn! A legendary New York figure who appeared in "Trash," and "Female Trouble," both directed by John Waters.
"It's an exciting time," Holly Woodlawn whispers to me. “The energy is electric, you feel it?” She says it with such passion, a glint in her eye, and a sense of ownership of this wonderful, vibrant scene. I'm captivated. This is more than just drag - it's an identity, a statement, a defiant cry of self-expression, of love, and above all, acceptance.
Leaving the Mineshaft, I step into the crisp October air, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, brimming with a newfound appreciation for this incredible art form, and even a bit smitten by the beauty of 70s style. As I catch a cab back to my little time-traveling motel, I know one thing: drag history is more than just the history of drag queens. It's a reflection of society itself - of the evolution of identity, the fight for equality, the unyielding desire for self-expression and artistic freedom.
It's a powerful, captivating story that continues to be written, and one that I'm excited to share with all of you! So, darling, what's next? Join me in the magical pink tutu again for another trip through time on pink-tutu.com!
Now, where can I get myself a pair of those fabulous 70s platform boots? 👠 💖
Emma's Pink-Tutu Tips!Embrace the 70s: Dive into those funky retro styles. Don't be afraid to play with bell bottoms, disco shirts, and those fabulous platform heels!
Go see a drag show: Catch a drag show in your local area, or if you’re really adventurous, pack your magical pink tutu and travel! It's a thrilling experience, full of fabulous performances, beautiful costumes, and a whole lot of love.
Channel your inner Diva!: Let's all be fierce, confident, and unapologetically ourselves! After all, that's what drag is all about - embracing your uniqueness and celebrating it for the world to see!
Support your local queens!: Remember to show some love to your local drag queens. Whether it’s attending their shows, tipping generously, or just being a supportive audience member - every bit counts. They’re working hard to bring you fabulous entertainment!
Now go out there, shine, and live your fabulous lives! And don’t forget, darlings, it’s always a good day to wear a pink tutu! 💗 💖
See you all next month!
