Hello, darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing, drag queen time traveller! It’s February the 2nd, and while the snow might be falling outside, I’m all about bringing the heat with another scintillating trip into the annals of drag history! Today, my fabulous, pink-hued time travelling tutu is whisking me back to the magical year of 1990 – a time of acid house, oversized shoulder pads, and a whole lot of fabulousness!
Before we step back in time, darlings, let me just remind you that pink tutus are not just for ballerinas. I've said it before and I'll say it again: a pink tutu is an investment - in style, confidence, and sheer joy. A pink tutu tells the world you're ready to dance, you're ready to twirl, and you're ready to slay!
So, buckle your seatbelts, lovelies, as I take you on a journey back to the year 1990. Let's see what exciting drag performances and events are bubbling up from the depths of history…
1990: The Drag Scene Takes Centre Stage
1990 saw drag flourishing all over the globe. Drag was on the verge of mainstream acceptance, and it was becoming increasingly clear that drag queens weren’t just entertaining – they were pushing boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and becoming cultural icons.
Across the Pond:
Over in New York, a young, upcoming drag queen named RuPaul was busy conquering the dance floor with her song Supermodel (You Better Work)* - which is actually turning thirty-three years old today - *imagine! It was a true anthem of confidence and self-expression, and RuPaul’s signature style was starting to gain traction, with its blend of glam, confidence, and “I-can-do-anything-I-set-my-mind-to” energy. And look at her now, my darlings - she's practically a household name! But back in 1990, her story was only just beginning to be written…
Meanwhile, in the UK, drag was also blossoming with legendary figures like Divine and Miss Kitty leading the way. In fact, Divine’s film Hairspray was released just last year (1988), showing the impact and cultural importance of drag. The drag scene in the UK, always a vibrant and dynamic landscape, was filled with diverse performers expressing their artistic visions with boldness and charisma. The queer community, the heart of drag, was flourishing, with gay rights marches and movements continuing to gain momentum, creating a wave of freedom and self-acceptance for the entire LGBTQ+ community.
The Spirit of Community and Inclusivity
The 1990s saw a strong sense of community within the drag world, with queens actively supporting each other, sharing tips, and collaborating on performances. And let’s not forget, the glitter is stronger together.
Drag Shows – The True Heartbeat of the Scene
In 1990, drag shows were held in venues of all shapes and sizes, from small local bars to glamorous nightclubs. It was a time when live music and live drag performances were truly the heart of entertainment, the true embodiment of the energy and passion that continues to draw us all to drag.
As a seasoned drag queen time traveller, I often ponder the history of drag and where we might be headed. 1990 shows us that while times may change, the power of drag – its boldness, its art, and its spirit of inclusion – continues to transcend and inspire.
So, darlings, if you’re ever feeling down, put on a pink tutu! It’s a reminder to be fierce, fabulous, and confident. Let it unleash your inner glitter and embrace the power of self-expression. And remember: we all have a story to tell, a journey to take, and a chance to shine.
Where to See Amazing Drag in 2023 (and how to join in!)
Here in the UK, there's a ton of amazing drag to see. In London, I suggest The Queen's Head, a vibrant and bustling pub on Grays Inn Road, with a long history of hosting brilliant, boundary-pushing drag performances. Down in my home town, Derbyshire, we have The Drag Academy, which is where I started my own drag journey – they're dedicated to nurturing new drag talents, providing workshops and stage experience – a perfect place for aspiring drag queens, and, of course, all the gorgeous fans, to gather and enjoy the vibrant art of drag. And speaking of workshops, I will be holding a few this year myself - look out for more details on my website soon, darlings. I'll teach you all how to master a perfect pink tutu twirl.
I hope this post has inspired you all to embrace your inner queen and live life in all its fabulous glory!
Stay safe, stay fabulous, and remember: life is a drag – a fabulous, beautiful, and sparkly drag!
Until next time, Emma
P.S. - Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for more drag queen history and fabulous pink fashion advice! I post my drag queen time travel blog every month! Let me know what your favourite periods of drag history are in the comments below, and share some of your fabulous pink-tutu outfits!
