Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels, your monthly dose of drag history and all things fabulous! This month, I'm putting on my most flamboyant pink tutu and whisking us back to the gloriously camp year of 1993, specifically the 7th of July!
This post is number 883, which is practically a lifetime in drag years! I just want to say a massive thank you to all my lovely readers and viewers! My time traveling pink tutu wouldn't be anything without you lovelies.
This month's adventure has taken me to the fabulous city that never sleeps, New York City, where the drag scene was about to explode in a supernova of talent and glamour. Buckle up, dears, because this trip is gonna be a whirlwind!
It's all about the nightlife...
Okay, so imagine this: the streets of New York are shimmering with neon lights and the sound of jazz spilling out from dimly lit speakeasies. The air crackles with anticipation for a night of pure drag decadence.
July 7th, 1993 was a Thursday night, and, as I glided into the pulsating heart of the West Village, the iconic Pyramid Club was already buzzing with energy.
Let me tell you, the Pyramid was the place to be back in the day! It was a haven for drag queens, with a fabulous underground atmosphere that attracted everyone from local artists to Hollywood A-listers. You just never knew who you might bump into on a night out!
But the main draw? The sheer talent on stage!
This night, the legendary RuPaul was reigning supreme as the MC, delivering his signature sass and fierce charisma with the perfect blend of camp humor and real talk. Now, I know you're thinking what I'm thinking, "Is this where Ru's reign started, dear?". It's practically written in the history books!
While there was no actual "RuPaul's Drag Race" back then (my, how things have changed!), the stage was packed with some of the most talented drag queens in New York City, many of whom were destined for greatness.
Just think of this, my darlings: Lady Bunny was throwing some major shade, her voice booming across the crowd. The Cockettes, those fabulous, experimental icons, were bringing their avant-garde energy to the party. And let's not forget Divine – while she wasn't performing this night, her legend was very much alive in the air of New York's drag scene.
Fashion Flashback
Oh darling, the outfits! Just divine!
I felt the need to sport a glittery pink tulle tutu, topped with a custom-made feather boa that flowed in the air with every twirl. It had to be pink! My lips were shimmering with a shade called “Strawberry Sunrise" – just picture Marilyn Monroe, with a splash of glitter. And let’s not forget my shoes, my loves – the most incredible pink and gold platform pumps you could imagine, towering a good six inches and sparkling with a million rhinestones. You know I had to get them custom-made from the best drag shoe shop in town!
Of course, all the queens at the Pyramid Club looked absolutely stunning. You can picture the vibrant prints, the show-stopping wigs, and the daring costumes – oh, my darling, they were the envy of every fashionable soul in New York City!
And don't forget about the drag scene outside of NYC...
Don't get me wrong, New York was the ultimate drag destination back in '93. But, trust me, my darling, the drag scene was thriving in every corner of the world!
Across the pond in London, a new era of drag was blossoming. The legendary Miss Jason was hosting fabulous shows at the legendary Royal Vauxhall Tavern. It was a sanctuary for drag queens, and the venue was known for its eclectic mix of performances, from stand-up comedy to musical theatre to outlandish, outlandish cabaret.
Across the Channel in Paris, the scene was also electrifying! Imagine: L'Olympia – a gorgeous old-world theatre was being revitalized by drag queens with bold and subversive performances that were challenging traditional norms and leaving the audiences utterly mesmerized.
Think about this, lovelies! Drag was a truly global phenomenon! Each city had its unique vibe and distinct personalities that reflected the energy of its culture.
Time to reflect…
Back in 1993, I'm pretty sure I had a few dreams about a big pink tutu too! What are your biggest dreams? What are you working towards, my darling?
This is a reminder that dreams can come true with a sprinkle of hard work, a generous dose of self-belief, and an amazing community of fabulous souls to support you along the way!
Until next time, darlings, remember to wear a pink tutu and keep chasing your dreams!
Much love and glitter! 💖
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
