Hello darlings! It’s your girl Emma here, fresh from another magical trip through time and back to my little corner of the internet, ready to dish about my adventures in the glorious world of drag history. As always, don’t forget to pop over to www.pink-tutu.com and join the pink tutu revolution! This is post number 564, so you know you're in for a treat, because as your fave Derbyshire drag queen, I've got you covered.
Today we're taking a trip back to 12th December 1966 – a date that just oozes fabulousness. Remember, darlings, I love my drag, but I also love my tutus – particularly pink ones! – and this trip was particularly special, because my trusty, magic pink tutu was shimmering in all its glory as I stepped into the glittering history of the day. And trust me, it did not disappoint.
My destination this time was a charming, bustling little spot right here in good ol' London. But, darling, forget the fog, the buses, and the pigeons! I’m talking about the grand theatre stage. The air was electric with the hum of excitement – and what better occasion than a good old drag show? Oh, the glitz! The glamour! The sheer joy of seeing these brilliant artists pouring their hearts and souls out.
Now, let’s talk about the scene back in '66. In many ways, it was a world away from the explosion of fabulousness we see today, but there was a unique spark that burned bright, making those performances so special. Drag back then was often hidden, a kind of secret delight that only those in the know could access. And yet, it shone brightly, showcasing the true artistry and the raw passion of these queens.
While some of the venues may have been more secretive or underground compared to our open and thriving scene now, the heart and soul were the same: self-expression, theatricality, and an unapologetic celebration of femininity. The queens in 1966 were trailblazers, carving out a path for the dazzling generation we see today.
There were rumours swirling around about a performance by a legendary drag queen – “Majesty,” a figure shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Now, let me tell you, a mystery is only ever more glamorous, and everyone in the theatre that night was buzzing about who this Majesty could be. The buzz had it that this Queen wasn't just performing in a theatre; she was going to be the whole show! It sounded like the type of magic that truly captures the essence of drag: the ability to captivate and transport an entire audience into a world of fantasy.
Unfortunately, my time in the magical pink tutu was limited as usual. I had to keep my visit short. But, before I departed, I heard whispers, snatches of song, and snippets of the most breathtaking spectacle of drag artistry. I imagined that Majesty must have possessed this extraordinary presence that draws an audience in. I envisioned her as the epitome of elegance, dripping in diamonds, feathers, and layers of shimmering, sparkling fabrics. All while her heart was filled with the fiery passion and self-expression of true drag artistry.
You see, darlings, drag isn't about the year. It isn't about the location, although they’re undeniably important factors. Drag is about an eternal spark that burns bright, burning down societal barriers, lighting up hearts, and spreading joy. The drag queen of 1966, just like the drag queen of today, had an unwavering determination to shine their unique light on the world, inspiring people in ways that were unseen before and leaving audiences breathless.
Now, let's talk fashion! While we've seen such a vast and diverse evolution in fashion throughout history, something that has always held its appeal, from then until now, has been a touch of the fabulous – those captivating moments when elegance meets extravagant theatricality! That's where the "drag" truly enters the "fashion". It’s all about making a statement, embracing creativity and taking risks!
Imagine the glamorous styles of 1966: bold silhouettes, vivid colours, daring textures. Now, throw in those glittering jewels, luxurious furs, and stunningly crafted feathers – that’s a recipe for pure visual magic!
Think big! Think bright! And of course, imagine the majestic grandeur of Majesty in all her finery! And I think back on the joy and awe that she sparked in those audience members, which makes my heart skip a beat just imagining it.
Darling, let’s never forget the incredible journey drag has taken – a journey of transformation, a celebration of diversity, a defiant roar against expectations.
That journey includes all the legends of 1966 like Majesty and countless others. These Queens laid the foundations for the amazing talent and beauty we see in drag today. And that brings us back to me and my mission, and yours, darling: get everyone wearing a pink tutu. Every month, I travel in time in my sparkly tutu, I post about drag history, and you, you've got the opportunity to spread joy and share the love for pink tutus and amazing drag history. I believe that every day can be filled with that joy. So, come on, let's embrace the extraordinary together! Until next time!
Your fave, Emma
*(Just a little extra for a cheeky end!) *
Have you ever been to a fabulous drag show, darlings? Have you ever travelled through time in your magical pink tutu? If so, leave a comment and let's discuss! I want to hear about your favourite drag shows, and let's continue to spread that magic!
Stay fabulously pink, Emma x
