In a remarkable moment in UK history, Princess Dinubolu became the first Black contestant to enter a beauty pageant in 1908. This bold move challenged the racial barriers that existed at the time and left a lasting legacy.
The Contest That Shook Southend
Princess Dinubolu arrived at Southend railway station with aspirations of winning the town’s beauty contest. Despite receiving a telegram warning her about local prejudice, she bravely decided to enter the contest. This decision sparked international headlines, reaching as far as New Zealand, due to the color of her skin.
A Brave Woman in History
The play “Princess Essex,” written by Anne Odeke, highlights the courage of Princess Dinubolu. Odeke, who also stars in the production, describes Dinubolu as a “brave woman.” She notes that the princess may not have actually hailed from Senegal but could have been a local woman who used the persona of royalty to gain acceptance in a racially biased environment.
Overcoming the Colour Bar
During the early 1900s, many beauty pageants enforced “colour bars,” excluding non-white contestants. However, the Kursaal, where the contest took place, did not have such restrictions, allowing Dinubolu to participate. Odeke explains that the princess cleverly navigated these barriers to make her mark.
A Humor and a Legacy
Dinubolu’s character shines through in her witty responses, such as her amusing comment about her beauty routine: “I bury myself up to my neck in sand.” This blend of bravery and humor makes her story compelling and relatable.
Celebrating an Essex Story
Odeke expresses pride in telling this lesser-known Essex story, emphasizing its significance. The play runs from September 13 to October 26 at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London, offering audiences a chance to celebrate Princess Dinubolu’s legacy.
