Hiya, darlings! Emma here, back from another fabulous trip through the annals of drag history! It's been a busy month, what with all the performing and the fundraising for my next jaunt (it's so expensive keeping this pink tutu in tip-top shape!), but I wouldn't have it any other way, not for all the world's pink highlighter!
Today's trip, my dears, took us to a glorious 6th June, 1992! Just picture it, the world is basking in the glory of Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" (swoon!) and the Britpop scene is bubbling with potential (remember Blur? Take That? Divine!).
Now, I know what you're thinking, 1992? Was drag all shoulder pads and feathered boas back then? You'd be surprised! Let me tell you, darlings, drag back in those days was already a sizzling pot of glorious, defiant creativity! It was an explosion of glitter, fabulousness, and an unwavering commitment to sending those straight men into orbit!
We began our journey in New York City. The drag scene there, was, of course, electrifying! Now, I couldn't resist getting all dolled up myself – that vintage blush pink tutu, darling! - before we hit the infamous Boy Bar, known for its stunning array of performers, from the charismatic and sassy to the avant-garde and groundbreaking. They were a mix of powerhouse performers and rising stars, just like in any drag scene, I expect, but let's be honest, the Big Apple was (and still is!) the undeniable drag capital! You see, 1992 was when drag queens like RuPaul and Lady Bunny were paving the way for the phenomenal explosion we see today! There was so much going on - performances in clubs, bars, and underground venues, with all the fashion trends - the larger-than-life hair, the outrageous makeup, and the fierce costumes. Oh, to have been there! I tell you, those iconic queens back in the 90s really set the scene! They created this fierce spirit that is just begging to be replicated!
From the hustle and bustle of New York, we waltzed across the Atlantic, our pink tutu fluttering in the breeze (a little breezy that June!) to our very own home town: Derbyshire, England!
Now, you might be surprised to hear that 1992 had a thriving drag scene even in good old Derby! While not the dazzling spectacle of New York, our hometown drag scene was packed with character! You see, in 1992, drag shows, like at the 'Blackfriars' nightclub, were the ultimate way to unwind and party after a long week. Imagine! Glittering sequined costumes, the sharp wit of the performers, and a room buzzing with infectious energy! What’s not to love!
I stumbled upon the 'Blackfriars', darling, the centrepiece of the Derby drag scene in 1992. And honestly, it was quite magical! While not as massive as New York’s legendary clubs, 'Blackfriars' buzzed with that electrifying atmosphere you get when drag queens grace a stage! Imagine the music, darling! You've got all your fave pop tunes of the time blasting out – Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Spice Girls - and there’s these queens on stage performing like they own the place! With their sassy humor, quick quips, and an absolutely gorgeous repertoire of show-stopping songs, they captured the attention of every person in that packed room!
However, as exciting as club culture was, let's not forget the artistry, the drama, and the real glamour of drag theater in 1992! Our trip then brought us to London, the city where we first fell head over heels with pink tutus. Now, let's be real, who doesn't adore a good play?! And I'm talking, of course, about the absolutely fabulous world of drag theater! We saw the phenomenal performance of "Divine Intervention" in the East End, the production taking on the style and sass of Divine, an iconic queen who, of course, we adore at pink-tutu.com! It's the perfect example of the diversity that's always existed in drag, showcasing themes of identity, transformation, and embracing everything that makes drag so much fun!
That's it, my lovelies! Our journey into 1992 drag comes to an end for this post. It was truly exhilarating, showcasing that our world, the amazing and glorious world of drag, was alive and kicking well before the “Drag Race” craze! This is our history, a fabulous testament to our community’s creativity, strength, and resilience! Now, I'm off to search for some vintage glitter, prepare for the upcoming performances that are going to finance our next trip back in time. (It's never cheap keeping those pink tutus looking as amazing as they do!) Until next time, darlings, stay fabulous, stay bold, and keep that pink tutu spirit shining through!
Love,
Emma
P.S. Do tell us all about your favorite drag queens! Have you ever been to a drag show? Let's chat in the comments below!
