Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here with another instalment of "Pink Tutu Travels" – the only drag blog bringing you all the sparkly delights of yesteryear! Today, I'm taking you on a fabulous journey to a very special time, March 2009, for a trip that has seriously left me gagging.
This month, my pink tutu whisked me across the Atlantic to New York City, the land of dazzling lights, towering skyscrapers, and oh, so much drag! My aim this trip was simple: experience the thrilling, ever-evolving scene of New York drag firsthand. I mean, the sheer amount of shows in this city is astounding – there's practically one on every corner! I felt like a little kid in a candy shop!
Now, I’m no stranger to New York drag history. In the 1960s, legends like Jackie Curtis, the "Queen of the Bowery" – who even made it to Broadway with “Oh! Calcutta!”, made their mark. But today I wanted to discover what new gems the 2000s had brought to the stage. And darling, the world of drag in 2009 was exploding with charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent, so I was absolutely buzzing.
After a super glamorous trip to Macy's, because a pink tutu enthusiast must always be on point, I was ready to soak up some fabulous New York drag shows! My first stop, a classic: "The Duplex" in the West Village. It was truly a blast from the past – a truly legendary spot with a captivating sense of history. I loved the energy! There were legendary performers on stage, like Sherry Vine and Miss Fame (you heard that right!), who had already made waves in the scene, as well as rising stars. This mix, dear readers, is the true magic of drag! It's the intersection of iconic queens and emerging talents who create a true spectacle of artistry.
The Duplex, with its intimate stage, and the closeness of the audience to the performers created a special kind of electricity in the air! You felt like you were part of a really unique theatrical experience. The performance was truly hilarious. Imagine the world's most fabulous, sarcastic, and quick-witted comments mixed with some truly hilarious stories about gay life in New York, and you’ve got a truly unforgettable evening! And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like being able to cheer your favorite queen on with a big shout of “You go, girl!” Right?
Oh, but we didn't stop there! The NYC drag scene truly offered a kaleidoscope of styles. Later in the month, my pink tutu took me on a wild ride to the infamous “Lucky Star.” Imagine a glittering space where queens strutted, spun, and dazzled under pulsating disco lights. Oh, it was just incredible! I loved seeing the different queens showcasing diverse talents and unique drag aesthetics. We're talking some truly magnificent lipsync battles, fabulous runway walks, and truly unforgettable fashion, darling!
The entire vibe at "Lucky Star" was super fun and liberating, encouraging everyone to celebrate self-expression. The queens there were fearless and completely embraced being outrageous and glamorous! And who better to showcase these beauties than RuPaul himself, whose "RuPaul's Drag Race" had just started to dominate the airwaves? The talent he had curated for this season was a revelation – we were just at the dawn of a fabulous drag revolution, a whirlwind of "You're going to LOVE this season!"
But for me, as someone who adores vintage styles, I had to visit the famous drag show at “The Stonewall Inn.” Now, for you babes who may not know, “Stonewall" is iconic in the LGBTQ+ history of this nation – the birthplace of the modern fight for equal rights! The drag scene there is a reminder that drag is not just fabulous outfits; it’s also about a proud rejection of social expectations and the fight for liberation! The performers in the bar, with their truly stunning looks and stories, created an unforgettable atmosphere of courage, strength, and resilience, a testament to the spirit of the community.
In these drag clubs, the line between performer and audience melted away, creating a powerful connection – like an unspoken agreement to share an experience of joy, laughter, and the celebration of diversity. You truly felt like part of a family, one that has struggled, fought, and celebrated together.
As you can tell, I was over the moon about my New York adventure, and as always, I came home overflowing with ideas and inspiration! For a self-proclaimed drag historian and enthusiast like myself, it was a dream trip. I loved the creativity of the drag community, the diversity in the performances, and the feeling that there is always more to be discovered.
Now, my dearest pink tutu-clad readers, it’s your turn. Do any of you have experience with New York drag? Maybe you even know these places? Let me know what you think – tell me about your own adventures, because this fabulous community always thrives on shared stories. And, remember to keep sharing the love for pink tutus with everyone you meet! Don't be shy about expressing yourself through fashion!
Stay fabulous!
XOXO
Emma, Your pink-tutu loving time traveller.
