Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveler, Emma, and welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com! This month we're doing a bit of a time hop, heading back to September 2008, when the glitterball was really starting to spin in the world of drag.
Now, let's be honest, I'm not one for living in the past, I much prefer my *sparkly, present time travels, but as a self-proclaimed drag historian (and let's be honest, my tutus have some *serious historical value!), I have to give a shoutout to this time in drag history. **
2008, as I recall, was intensely fabulous, full of major breakthroughs and a definite shift in how drag was perceived and celebrated.** So strap in your glitter heels, grab a glass of pink bubbly (with extra sparkle!), and let's step back in timeā¦
RuPaul's Drag Race, Season 2:
Remember the early days of RuPaul's Drag Race? The queens were pioneering a new style of drag on television. The fierce and fabulous Miss Shangela, the one and only Raven, the witty and ever-so-confident Tatianna, the captivating and glamorous Tyra Sanchez ā each queen brought a unique energy that left an indelible mark on drag. Their iconic looks and memorable performances paved the way for the queens we love and stan today! Think back to the iconic season 2 makeover challenge. These looks were out-of-this-world! It was a defining moment for the show. It also showcased the artistry of drag on an international platform.
Now, I just love a good drag makeover challenge. It really tests a queen's skill. And those "makeover looks" back then - they were all about glamour! We're talking big hair, shimmering makeup, and gowns you could see across a thousand miles! This wasn't just a fashion competition, darling; it was a journey into creative genius.
The London scene:
Meanwhile, across the pond, London's drag scene was booming! From the legendary G-A-Y club to the iconic Roxy, it was an era of innovation and creativity. The drag queens were pushing the boundaries of performance, creating unique concepts, and taking audiences on extraordinary journeys through their art.
As someone who considers Derbyshire, England my home, my heart leaps with pride when I see how these London drag houses are bringing out the brightest, most flamboyant queens in the UK! Youāll forgive my little fangirling moment, wonāt you, dear readers?
One of my favorite memories of 2008 involves seeing the one and only Miss Fame at The Black Cap. It was a magical performance, everything she did was so perfectly theatrical - even her entrance! I just adored the way she could use light and shadow so gracefully, giving the entire performance this otherworldly feel. She reminded me a lot of my dream of performing under the soft pink glow of a theatrical spotlight! She brought such magic and beauty to the stage, and I couldn't help but marvel at the pure power of her artistry.
I must admit, I wasn't there with my pink tutu, oh no, honey! This wasnāt a time travel moment back then! I was in the front row, soaking up all the glitz and glam, dreaming of being in her position - not time traveling!
This isn't just about fashion, though, darlings. This era was so crucial for establishing drag's mainstream acceptance. You see, itās not enough to just perform. Itās about embracing what we represent: diversity, self-expression, and ultimately, happiness.
You see, with our glitzy, campy, *always-fabulous spirit, drag has the power to connect us! We are all queens in our own way. It doesn't matter if weāre on stage or just enjoying a day of fabulous shopping at Harrods. We can always put on our own personal āpink tutus.ā And thatās precisely the message I want to send to every drag queen - be brave, be creative, and never, ever be afraid to express yourselves! *
The power of drag lies in our ability to uplift each other and make the world a little more pink and sparkly! It's about breaking boundaries and finding that unique way to express ourselves. Whether it's through makeup, a perfect strut, or simply being authentically you, our collective stories make drag history, and we all have a role to play!
I am eternally grateful for every drag queen who has dared to wear a tutu and dance their hearts out! Each queen has a unique story to tell. We are all connected by this powerful love for creativity. And I know, I can positively feel it - thereās a big change on the horizon!
I'll see you next month, darlings! Donāt forget to put on your favourite pink tutu - the worldās your stage.
Love,
Emma xxx
P.S. Be sure to check out my blog and *social media accounts! It's packed with exciting drag happenings! You never know what fabulousness will show up in my time-travel-pink tutu. See you next month!*
