Post Number: 1173
Hello, darling dears! Welcome back to my fabulous Pink Tutu Time Travel Blog! It’s September 2017, and I’m positively giddy to take you on a whirlwind tour through the most iconic moments in drag history. Now, I'm no time-traveling scientist, but my magical pink tutu (you know, the one I've been hinting about?) whisks me away on incredible journeys – to all eras and all continents! And believe me, babes, drag history is more fascinating than you can possibly imagine!
This month, our time travel adventure kicks off with…wait for it… a shocking reveal! My, my, my, it's time I share my greatest secret with you, my beautiful pink-tutu-loving followers! Remember those drag performances I do? The ones I fund my incredible time-traveling shenanigans with? Well, they're not just to pay the bills – they're a form of historical research! Think of it like an interdimensional documentary!
From Derbyshire To The World – A Pink Tutu Story
Born and raised in Derbyshire (the prettiest county, obviously), I spent my formative years mesmerized by stories of legendary queens, glittering sequins, and dramatic entrances. Now, as a twenty-something aspiring ballerina, there's nothing more fulfilling than performing for my beloved local communities and beyond. Each performance is a journey of its own – from cheeky cheeky-cha-chas to dramatic ballet-inspired looks (those tutus? My personal wardrobe essentials!). I must confess, every now and then, when I shimmy across the stage, I find myself dreaming of those grand balls in Versailles or Parisian cabarets from yesteryear – I'm not just performing, darlings, I'm conjuring a glorious slice of drag history!
Speaking of which, have you checked out the latest drag queen documentaries? “Drag Becomes Her” was absolutely sensational – the journey of Daphne and Bianca in New York in the 70s, iconic! And if you haven’t watched “The Queens,” I highly recommend a cozy evening curled up in front of the television with a glass of sparkling and an assortment of snacks (those canapés you posted on social media – divine!).
September 1970: Drag And The Women's Liberation Movement
And so, this month's trip takes us back to September 1970 - an unforgettable period when drag history intertwined with the passionate fire of the Women's Liberation Movement! Now, imagine this, dear readers: vibrant protests, fiery speeches, and drag queens rocking the revolution with their audacity, their self-expression, and a touch of glitter!
Across the globe, in places like New York, London, and San Francisco, the Women's Liberation Movement was gaining momentum. At the same time, drag was finding its voice as a powerful act of defiance. Think of drag in this context: these amazing, fearless individuals – they were literally wearing a statement – shattering societal norms, pushing boundaries, and, frankly, just being wonderfully, wonderfully fabulous!
And imagine this - a legendary queen of that era, Divine, strutting her stuff at New York’s “The Cockettes” performance venue. A mix of musical theater, drag, and satire. Their bold performances and flamboyant costumes were not just for entertainment; they were political! A testament to the way art and social commentary intertwine so effortlessly. Imagine, in a time when gender expression was challenged, a gathering of fabulous, expressive, theatrical artists taking the stage and showcasing their individuality! Absolutely revolutionary. Divine's iconic character, Edith, became an instant cult icon - and for good reason!
And it wasn't just about those grand shows. In little corners all across America, you’d find underground drag gatherings – secret discos, small stage venues, packed full of laughter, liberation, and, of course, an abundance of fabulous costumes! Those clandestine shows were full of love, passion, and daring statements of self-expression, paving the way for future generations to own their style, embrace their identities, and shake things up!
* September 2017 – Drag’s Global Stage*
Fast forward to 2017! From New York to Paris to Tokyo, drag culture was booming - and believe me, babes, this era has its own unique story to tell.
"RuPaul’s Drag Race” had just launched its 9th season! A true television sensation that captured hearts across the globe – and my, it wasn’t just television that was buzzing!
Drag was going mainstream! Fashion publications were championing drag styles, celebrities were sporting those signature fierce looks, and the world was starting to really understand the sheer artistry, talent, and importance of this vibrant subculture! It’s incredible! We’re seeing drag not only accepted, but celebrated - not just on a stage, but on the streets, on magazine covers, on fashion runways, even in high-end art galleries!
We’re witnessing a phenomenal shift, darlings. We're in a period of powerful visibility for drag queens – the very essence of artistic expression, community, and fierce individuality.
Remember our trip back to the 70s, where we saw drag used to challenge social norms? Well, that spirit of rebellion is alive and thriving, just with a much bigger and brighter stage.
Let’s Keep On Celebrating
This month’s Pink Tutu Time Travel has taught us a lot. We've seen how drag evolved alongside major social changes - the fight for equality, the fight for self-expression, and ultimately, the fight for authenticity! We’ve also discovered how the history of drag has brought us to this exhilarating present.
Every day, drag artists all across the globe are rewriting history with every lip sync battle, every stunning outfit, every daring act of bravery! It’s our collective responsibility to continue championing drag – whether by going to a local drag show, supporting queer causes, or simply reminding everyone that we are all beautiful, we are all unique, and we are all worthy of love!
Until next time, dear ones, let's all strive to make the world a bit more glamorous! Remember – a touch of sparkle can go a long way. And if you’re ever thinking of rocking a pink tutu… well, you know what to do!
Your forever fabulous,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
