Hello my lovelies! It’s Emma here, your pink tutu-clad time-travelling gal from Derbyshire! It’s been a busy month - my last drag performance at the Speakeasy was a right giggle, the glitter cannon went off a tad early and the audience, let’s just say they were a right hoot!
I swear, you haven't lived until you’ve seen a room full of patrons covered in pink glitter! But that's a story for another day, my dears! Right now, my mind is buzzing with the dazzling possibility of where I’ll end up next. The universe of drag is my oyster! Today’s time-travel tutu will transport me back to January 1st, 1991!
My oh my! Just think! The Spice Girls are mere toddlers. I bet those little gems were already belting out a good ol' rendition of "Wannabe!" I am so excited to get a glimpse into what the world of drag was like on this fateful day, almost 32 years ago! Now let's step back in time...
The time-travelling pink tutu feels a bit heavier this time, but darling, I always take a bit of sparkle with me. I'm standing on a London street, a crisp winter morning! The smell of fish and chips permeates the air and everyone’s got their heads down battling the brisk wind. It's so… quaint, you know?
Thankfully, I’m still as fashionable as ever. A lovely gent tells me he loves my pink tutu, feathered boa, and bright purple eyeshadow and tells me that I “look lovely.” Darling, this was 1991! I wonder what the gay clubs in the UK were like? Are there even clubs in London that play disco music in 1991?! It feels so pre-club scene and almost pre-House Music, it's almost jarring.
Time to get myself down to London’s West End. A true theatre queen like me has got to see a show, no matter what century I’m in! And what better than “The Phantom of the Opera”! This 1986 classic still continues to reign as the longest-running musical in London, and believe me, it’s not for lack of spectacularity!
Oh darling, I am obsessed! The musical just blew me away. From the beautiful music to the incredible costumes, the entire experience was phenomenal. And the phantom's mask – darling, the detail is exquisite, it felt like a whole new dimension of theatrical brilliance! I’d do anything for a mask like that for my own performances. Maybe I’ll make a tutu-themed version?! scribbles frantically in a pink notepad
The pink tutu and I decided it's time to move onto New York City. Time to delve into what’s going on with drag on this side of the Atlantic! It’s time to explore a new corner of the drag world, darlings, and nothing gives me a bigger thrill!
I just feel so American. New York City! What a magical place. I've heard about this infamous bar called the Pyramid Club and am beyond excited to check it out. It’s renowned for hosting a bevy of iconic drag talent like Divine and Lady Bunny, which feels utterly divine plays air guitar and flips imaginary hair in the mirror I hear a legendary DJ is even supposed to be spinning - I need to find out what it’s like!
I have a feeling this era of drag is about to become one of my favourite times ever. I am a huge fan of classic drag from the 70s and 80s so stepping back into 1991 makes me feel as if I have discovered a treasure trove of glorious performance style and drag glamour! It's amazing what can happen with a little bit of magic in a pink tutu, and it’s all happening right here in New York, darlings.
And my darlings, that is where I leave you tonight! A big “see ya later!” to you, I’m off to grab myself a fabulous pink milkshake. I will be back with more fabulous drag escapades soon – stay tuned, and remember: if you dream it, wear it! wink
