Hello my darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet - www.pink-tutu.com. This month, I've dipped my toe into the past once more, and I’m so excited to share this delightful adventure with you. This month, it's 6th June, 1980!
Buckle up, sweeties, because this is one trip you don't want to miss! Grab your biggest smile, a glass of bubbly (or maybe a cheeky cocktail, darling?), and let’s get ready to explore!
Tutu Travelogue
Oh, it’s such a treat to slip into my magical pink tutu. I adore the feel of the silk and the sparkle as the crystals catch the light. This time, the shimmer has whisked me back to a time when shoulder pads were the ultimate power move, leg warmers were a wardrobe staple, and neon hues reigned supreme! I found myself smack-dab in the heart of New York City. Can you believe it? It’s the 6th June, 1980, the very night of the legendary Cockettes' "Night of 100 Stars" performance at the Mudd Club.
Now, darlings, the Cockettes are iconic. They were a flamboyant collective of artists, actors, and musicians, known for their blend of camp, theatricality, and social satire. Their shows were legendary, blurring the lines between performance art and drag, pushing boundaries and celebrating self-expression!
A night of glitz and glam
I've heard whispers, my dears, that tonight was a truly magical event! There were dazzling drag queens like Jackie Curtis and Holly Woodlawn – absolutely shimmering, showcasing everything that was great about New York nightlife back then. You see, it wasn’t all about the mega-club, big-budget spectacle – it was a time for creative exploration, for smaller venues where everyone was welcome to celebrate self-expression and unleash their inner glitter. I think we can learn so much from this era - that drag doesn’t need to be huge or flashy - even simple moments of pure joy and camp are impactful.
The Mudd Club – a haven of creativity
I couldn't resist heading into the Mudd Club, where the show took place. This place was THE spot for alternative artists, musicians and performers – a haven for outcasts, revolutionaries, and those with a bit of ‘ooh la la’ about them. Even Andy Warhol had hung out here, just to give you a glimpse of its coolness. I imagined a young Patti Smith walking in, or a budding Madonna enjoying a glass of wine while watching the show. You can’t deny the electrifying energy in the air. I could just feel the thrill and excitement – you knew something was happening!
The fashion! My darlings, let me tell you. We’re talking big hair, dramatic makeup, colourful outfits. Imagine everything you’ve ever loved about the eighties - neon hues, geometric patterns, glitter and glamour, all brought to life. I’m absolutely in love with it all. And oh, the attitude. It's so daring, confident and fearless. Those queens of the era just knew how to command attention!
A Message to the Modern Drag World
I often get asked about my time-travel journey - what I take back from the past, what I hope the future will bring to the world of drag.
Well, my loves, let’s just say it’s about more than the clothes and the makeup (although those are fantastic). It’s about capturing that spirit of expression and rebellion. It’s about celebrating all forms of drag, from the gritty street shows to the big stage productions.
And, oh darling, don’t forget the pink tutu! The 80s are back with a vengeance – it’s time to embrace all things bold and colorful, all things fierce and fun. It's about rocking those colourful outfits, letting your personality shine, and most importantly, having a fabulous time!
That’s what makes the drag world so wonderful! It’s about letting go of expectations and just enjoying the spectacle! And trust me, darlings, it's worth it.
More 80’s Fun
While I’m still wrapped up in 1980’s fever, let me share with you a little more about what was happening on this incredible night. The New York Dolls were making their stage debut at CBGB, bringing punk rock energy to the East Village scene. The legendary Roxy Music were also captivating audiences at The Roxy in Los Angeles – the music is absolutely rocking!
But for me, the magic was at the Mudd Club with The Cockettes, making history with their vibrant and inspiring performance.
And that's a wrap, my darlings! Thank you so much for joining me on my little time travel adventure.
Don’t forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com, share the love with your fellow drag enthusiasts, and join me next month for another wild ride into the history of drag! And who knows, maybe you’ll see me out and about at a drag show soon – rocking my favourite pink tutu, of course!
Until next time, keep on glittering!
With all my love,
Emma xxx
Post number 726
(For the purposes of the fictional blog, each post should include a photo of Emma in her pink tutu, travelling to a certain place and era).
