#DragQueenHistory during 1982 10 October

Helloooo darlings! It's Emma, your resident Pink-Tutu Time Traveling extraordinaire, bringing you all the glitz and glamour of another amazing trip through drag history! As always, grab a cuppa, pull up a sequined chair, and let's travel back to the divine delights of October 10th, 1982!

Now, this month, I’m particularly thrilled to have dusted off my magical, sequined time-traveling tutu (a little pink tulle never goes amiss, you know!) and transported myself to a legendary evening in 1982. Why, you ask? Because, my darlings, this date was bursting with fabulousness, boasting some of the biggest names in drag!

Firstly, let me set the scene! 1982 was a whirlwind of exciting trends – big hair, bold colours, and, of course, an abundance of fabulous drag shows! The New York City drag scene was particularly lively, with iconic venues like The Pyramid Club hosting unforgettable nights. Remember, this is a golden era of drag - think of the iconic looks from Divine, The Cockettes and Holly Woodlawn!

Okay, let’s rewind! I touched down in the Big Apple on October 10th, 1982, with a pep in my step and a sparkle in my eye! You know, darling, I’m all about finding out what’s happening in the drag scene of wherever I’ve popped up to. So I hopped on a bright red bus (and, yes, a vintage one!), took a delightful jaunt across town, and then… oh.my.gosh.darling.!!!

I’m talking about The Pyramid Club – the scene was electrifying, a swirling mix of cabaret, performance art, and unbridled creative energy! The club was packed with people eager to see what the night would bring, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. You just had to feel the energy in the room to truly grasp the magic of the moment!

Now, hold your feather boas and prepare to be dazzled! This night, darling, was a performance of The Cockettes’ "Pearls Before Swine" and it was absolutely mind-blowing. If you haven't seen this, it's one of the absolute best pieces of drag theatre history. You are seriously missing out!

This is why time travel in your pink tutu is just so utterly divine, you can actually witness these incredible nights yourself! The Cockettes were true pioneers of drag theatre, bringing an element of social commentary and vaudeville camp that absolutely revolutionised the drag scene.

It wasn't all theatrical brilliance, however. Just a hop skip and jump from The Pyramid Club was a little number called the "Continental Baths". You’ve probably heard of this famous bath house, known for it’s ‘anything goes’ atmosphere! If you don’t, I’m happy to explain it over a nice cup of Earl Grey and some finger sandwiches (but maybe don’t mention this blog to grandma!).

Back to the 1980s for a minute… The “Continental Baths" were another key element of the NYC scene, not only offering a place to get ready for the night but also hosting iconic shows like “The Drag Extravaganza” with its wildly fabulous acts. And my oh my, the looks! Feathers, sequins, and oh so much more, darling, think Cher meets Bowie. Just picture it: a night bathed in bright, bold colours and outrageous fashion – just the kind of inspiration that would leave even the most experienced drag queen wanting to dive headfirst into their fabric stash!

And did I mention the performances themselves? Remember, we are in the very heart of the “Golden Era of Drag," an era when icons like Divine, The Cockettes and Holly Woodlawn were blazing trails, showcasing their immense talent and bringing drag culture to a whole new level. I swear, darlings, their performances were out of this world – so utterly creative and just utterly joyous. You simply can’t replicate this magic, darling, this was just so pure and so unbelievably creative. A real blast from the past.

It was a joy to observe and learn from this vibrant community. Even in the era of 80’s glitter and sequins, I found that the core of what makes drag magic still remains – creativity, self-expression, and sheer fun!

My time travel excursion in this amazing pink tutu really highlighted how vital venues like the Pyramid Club and Continental Baths were to the scene. They served not only as a stage for drag performances, but as havens for the LGBTQ community - offering a sense of belonging and celebrating individual self-expression. And that, my dears, is truly the magic of drag.

Time to bring the pink tulle magic back to 2023. So now, let’s rewind to the present! You see, this isn’t about simply gazing back at the past. It’s about understanding and appreciating where our drag culture comes from, to learn and to build on the incredible foundation those queens established. Every strut down the runway, every glittering number performed is built upon those legendary drag pioneers and their revolutionary performances.

Today, with drag thriving globally and gaining international acclaim, it’s crucial we acknowledge the history that shaped our art form. This month’s Pink-Tutu travel diary, with it’s dazzling exploration of 1980’s New York drag, proves it wasn't simply about outrageous makeup and dazzling fashion, it was a powerful and important act of social commentary. This creative energy built and cultivated our contemporary drag culture and remains an inspiring, bold, and powerful force.

As for you, darling, remember – It’s time to Embrace the Pink-Tutu and join in on this joyful journey. It’s time to wear your heart on your sleeve, sparkle in your pink tutu and never ever forget the pioneers that pave the way! Keep it campy, keep it fabulous, and keep on living life to the fullest, in all your glittery glory!

Until next month, darlings! I can't wait to show you what we find next month. Remember to check out www.pink-tutu.com to get a sneak peek and subscribe!

Don’t forget to post on Instagram with the #Pink-Tutu hashtag! You’ll all make such amazing time travelers!