Our cabaret reporter Jason Reid got nattering with Tiffaney Wells, resident queen of the City of Quebec, and before we knew it he was poking and probing her on all kinds of topics. Here’s an insight into Tiff’s mind and some of her views on 21st century Britain…
Gay Marriage
I think it’s wonderful and very long overdue. In fifty years time people will look back and wonder what all the fuss was about, as it should never have been an issue in the first place. Equality in all walks of life is very important. Gay people pay their taxes as well as heterosexuals, so we should have exactly the same rights, across the board.
Costumes
I have to admit, I am totally addicted to buying frocks and wigs. It’s crazy! Nowadays everything is so easily accessible too, with online snooping. It’s instant gratification – and I don’t get much of that these days, dear. With just a few clicks I can have a new get-up bought and winging it’s way to me without leaving my chaise lounge. My hubby will hate me for telling you this but I also have a specific room in my house solely for my drag [laughs].
UK Politics
I’m not deeply into politics but I would like to see one party governing the country instead of the coalition we have right now. Currently there’s nothing solid in place, because of divided opinions, and there’s a distinct lack of leadership. I have always been a Liberal girl at heart, myself.
Celebrities
It’s the age of the amateur, my dear! These reality shows are churning out people that are so desperate for any form of fame, regardless of having fuck-all talent. They’ve not trained in their field but after five minutes on TV they think they’re in the industry. I cannot stand the reality culture!
Love
I have two loves in my life; the first being my partner of twenty six years: Raymond. We met in a gay bar called The Castle, which then became Stonewalls in Lewisham, and he was my first, and only, fella. I wouldn’t say it was love at first sight, more like pure unadulterated lust [laughs]. He supports me so much professionally as well as emotionally, so I’m a lucky queen. The other love in my life is my mother who just means the world to me. She has influenced me in every single way, even as a performer, from the way I live my life to the music I listen to and the clothes I wear.
Kylie Minogue
To me, Kylie is a true modern gay icon. A real showgirl. I look up to her as a performer and as a person. She oozes stardom and glamour. She is never vulgar, or has been involved in any scandal. She has knocked out some of the best pop songs of the last twenty years and she’s a fighter who never gives up.
Drugs
Now that I’m that bit older, twenty-one dear [laughs], I’m more aware of the risks and consequences of drug taking, and the only real buzz I get at my age is just waking up in the morning! Drugs are not something that are just synonymous with the gay scene, in my opinion, but with every scene, especially amongst younger people. Ultimately, it’s about educating people and providing them with information, because a lot of people are going to try something at some point. Let them know the dangers and risks so at least they are aware. After that, everyone is responsible for their own actions.
Audiences
You know there are days, just like with any job, that you may be down for whatever reason, or not in the mood to perform, but after being onstage the energy of a receptive audience will lift your spirits and give you a feeling of euphoria. There’s no other feeling like it. It’s like water to a plant. Everything is about the audiences and for the audiences, in this job. I feed off their energy and it boosts the adrenaline of a performance.
• Tiffaney Wells performs at the City of Quebec (12 Old Quebec Street, Marble Arch, W1H 7AF) every Tuesday from 10pm.
