Hello, darlings! It's your favourite Derbyshire lass, Emma, back with another entry from my time-traveling pink tutu archives. This month, we're stepping back to 1st January, 1993 – the perfect time to start the year with a dash of glitter and a whole lot of sass. Grab your feather boas, and let's dive in!
As a fabulous queen who lives and breathes for drag, I couldn't possibly resist a little trip to the past to see what was happening on the drag scene back in 1993. My time-traveling pink tutu, a magnificent creation with enough sequins to rival the Milky Way, carried me back in time. Now, imagine me, your quintessential, tutu-wearing pink-loving, ballet-obsessed drag queen, strolling through a world just starting to discover the vibrant possibilities of drag. It was exhilarating!
I've always been a massive fan of the iconic RuPaul, and seeing him grace the cover of Details magazine that month was such a big deal. He was truly changing the game, opening up the world to the beauty, talent and brilliance of drag, showing everyone that drag was not just an art form but a way of life, a celebration of identity, a statement against conformity. Oh, how I wished I could have donned a glamorous frock and stood beside him for the photo shoot – it would have been so extra!
Speaking of dazzling personalities, did you know that Divine, the queen of camp and outrageousness, had sadly passed away the previous March? I may have travelled back in time, but that doesn't mean I can't grieve for the drag queens who made a lasting impact on our community. Her legacy continues to inspire, from her bold looks to her undeniable comedic genius, she remains a true drag icon.
The world of drag in 1993 was bursting with talent, even though some might call it "underground." But let me tell you, that doesn't diminish the power and impact of these queens. It just adds a little spice to their journey. It was a time when drag was an exclusive world, but even back then, it thrived, fueled by fierce queens and a dedicated community who adored it.
While I was jet-setting through the time vortex, I couldn't help but be captivated by the amazing performers in New York's renowned clubs like “The Pyramid” and "The Tunnel.” I bet those were fabulous places to catch a drag show – pure escapism with glitter, feathers, and maybe even a few extra inches of platform! My inner fashionista yearns to witness those shows firsthand, the extravagant costumes, the captivating performances, the pulsating energy. Oh, the glamour of it all!
One of my favourite parts of any drag adventure is exploring the latest fashion trends, and 1993 was a total fashion fiesta! Bold prints, sequins, neon colors – it was a feast for the eyes. From platform heels to crop tops to dazzling headpieces, everything was bold, glamorous and daring. The drag queens then, like the ones we adore today, weren't just dressing up, they were making bold statements about their individuality and expressing themselves with fierce confidence. You can’t talk about drag in 1993 without mentioning the iconic, oversized hair, the bouffants, the gravity-defying creations! And let’s not forget those wigs! Absolutely fabulous! The artistry, the creativity, it just took my breath away.
Now, speaking of art, this trip also reminded me that in the world of drag, it's not all about sequins and fabulous frocks. 1993 saw drag taking a strong stand for social activism. It was a time when many queer voices were making their opinions heard on important matters like HIV awareness, fighting for equal rights, and raising funds for important causes. And what better way to get those messages across than with a splash of fabulousness?
Even in a time when drag wasn't quite the mainstream sensation it is today, its impact was undeniable. The creativity, the boldness, the sheer joyous energy of these amazing performers left an enduring legacy, shaping the world of drag as we know it.
As my magical pink tutu deposited me back in my own time, I couldn't help but be reminded that the heart of drag, the desire to express ourselves with unapologetic joy, to celebrate diversity, to spread love and acceptance, those are timeless values that will never fade.
So, remember to be true to yourself, let your inner queen shine, and don't be afraid to add a little sprinkle of fabulousness into your life! Until next time, darlings, remember to wear your pink tutu with pride and always stay true to your own unique style! And if you ever feel like joining me on a time-traveling adventure, don’t hesitate to give me a shout! Just click the little "pink tutu" in the corner and I'll transport you there!
Oh, and before you go! Check out this month's drag calendar for some truly fabulous events!
Drag Queen Diary - January 2023:
January 5th: "The Glamorous Ball" at the West End - Get ready for a night of dazzling costumes, captivating performances, and enough glitter to make your eyes sparkle! Don't miss this grand showcase of talent!
January 10th: "Queens of the Nile" at The Flamingo Lounge - A captivating cabaret with Egyptian-themed extravaganza - you’ll be transported to a world of magic and ancient grandeur! Be sure to dress for the occasion!
January 20th: "Drag Story Time" at the local library - It’s never too early to start promoting acceptance! Join us for an afternoon of playful storytelling, where drag queens read their favourite fairy tales to young ones – promoting acceptance and diversity through the magical power of stories!
January 29th: "The Pink Tutu Ball" at The Crystal Palace - It wouldn’t be a time travel post without a pink tutu themed bash, right?! Celebrate individuality, dance the night away and unleash your inner fabulousness – let’s turn The Crystal Palace into a dazzling wonderland of pink! I might even be making a guest appearance!
Keep on slaying, stay fabulous, and let your inner queen sparkle!
Emma
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