Hello, darlings! Your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller is back, and this month, I'm whisking us all the way back to 1978! Now, I know what you're thinking: 1978? Isn't that a tad before our time? Well, let me tell you, darlings, drag has always been about breaking boundaries, about pushing those glitter-dusted envelopes and embracing the glorious freedom of self-expression!
And this month, dear readers, I'm absolutely dripping in sequins and ready to spill the tea on the legendary drag scene in none other than… New York City!
Stepping into a Dream
The minute I donned my special, sparkly time-traveling tutu and touched down in Manhattan, I was whisked back to the shimmering, glamorous energy of the late 70s. Neon lights bounced off chrome and glass buildings, taxi cabs honked their iconic "honk-honk" melody, and the smell of hotdogs and popcorn filled the air. It was enough to make a girl’s head spin!
My mission was clear: to see some legendary drag queens and experience the captivating spirit of New York drag. After all, what's a girl to do with a pink tutu in New York if she's not heading to the Copa?
The Copa - The Queen of Clubs
My destination was none other than the legendary Copa, one of the most iconic nightspots in New York history, famous for hosting iconic performers such as Tony Bennett and Sammy Davis Jr. Now, on this fateful 7th of July, 1978, the Copa was set to host a performance of the incredible Miss Connie Converse.
This wasn’t just any drag queen, darlings. Connie Converse, who originally hailed from right here in Derbyshire! That’s right, folks, Derbyshire to the Copa in New York. That’s true, truly remarkable drag talent!
The Magic Begins
With my heart fluttering like a flamenco dancer, I took a seat amongst the chic clientele and gazed around the packed room. The atmosphere was electric – anticipation hung heavy in the air, the lights were dimmed, the music thrummed with a beat, and a palpable energy shimmered around every glittering, beautifully styled gentleman.
Suddenly, a hush fell over the crowd as the stage lights brightened, revealing Connie Converse in all her glam glory.
Connie Converse: A Showstopper
There she was, dazzling in a shimmering gown, a bouffant like a giant pink meringue, her eyes glittering with a mischievous glint. The crowd erupted in applause, their adoration obvious, and it was no surprise.
Connie Converse gave an unforgettable performance. Her singing, dancing, and comedy routine had the entire crowd enraptured.
My head spun! I felt like I was watching a true icon of drag, her every gesture, her every flick of the wrist a testament to her artistry and her dedication to the art of drag. The passion on that stage was palpable.
Drag Through the Decades
I can see why Connie Converse went on to be such a celebrated figure in New York drag history, and indeed, a shining star for drag queens back home here in the UK. She, along with so many other talented queens like her, paved the way for the vibrant drag scene we see today.
Connie, like a shimmering sequined phoenix, had risen above all those challenges and shown the world what it means to be a queen – to live with pride and joy, to challenge perceptions, and to break down boundaries through sheer brilliance and undeniable talent.
It was truly inspiring, dear readers, to see a Derbyshire queen leaving her mark on the global stage. Her show at the Copa was just the start. It reminds me once again how truly special our community is – a tapestry of talent and joy woven together through sequins, feathers, and the magical world of drag.
From 1978 to 2023 – The Tutu Evolution
Since my visit, I’ve noticed that a love of the tutu seems to be something drag queens have in common across the globe, from New York to London, and of course, back here in Derbyshire! Tutus seem to appear in drag from all walks of life!
If you were lucky enough to see one of Connie Converse's legendary performances, you might have caught her dazzling in a tutu, or maybe a stunning, feather-trimmed gown! Tutus were becoming a hot accessory even back then!
I think if I were back in 1978, Connie would encourage me to bring a few pink tutus to The Copa, but perhaps one with more glitter!
Now, as always, my darlings, I’m off on my time-travelling adventures, seeking new stories and inspiring queens all over the world. I’m sure I will see more tutus on the way! Until next month, don’t forget to unleash your inner queen and put on a little sparkle - a little pink glitter goes a long way! And remember, life is too short to not be glamorous, darling, and never forget to live in your tutu-tifully bright, colourful world!
www.pink-tutu.com
Love and tutus, Emma
