Topsie Redfern came to prominence properly on the cabaret scene after clinching second spot in this year’s Drag Idol competition. Oozing charisma, with talent seeping from every pore and a smile that lights up the dullest of rooms, the classically trained performer has dazzled audiences from the Edinburgh Fringe to London’s West End. Now a full time drag performer, and about to embark on one of her busiest and most challenging months, Jason Reid spent the afternoon sipping cocktails and getting up to general mischief with Topsie this week…
Lovely to see you, looking gorgeous as always. So almost four months on, how has everything been for you since Drag Idol?
Life has been a whirlwind to say the least. I’ve experienced everything from five star glamour to performing in a gents’ toilet. The best thing was meeting some really amazing and inspiring people along the way. Post Drag Idol, I truly feel like I’ve been embraced by the gay cabaret scene. And it has enabled me to give up my day job and perform full time, so THANK YOU, Drag Idol!
What did you take away from it?
It’s shown me that there are so many talented drag performers on the scene, which, in turn, has encouraged me to try and find my niche and keep working at my craft, because the competition is fierce.
So here we are in the plush surroundings of Bar Titania, where you regularly perform…
Yes, I love this venue. The clientele are so diverse and friendly, and the staff are lovely. Also, the decor is glamour and decadence personified.
Well this cocktail is slipping down nicely. What personalised cocktail would you be?
I’d be the Topsie Turvy. Sweet and intoxicating, and the barman would have to give me a good head. I’d be served in a highball (how else would I get those high notes). Finished off with a sprinkle of Rohypnol to guarantee a happy ending [laughs].
Naughty! One of your outstanding qualities is your voice. How and when did you start singing?
My parents were singers so there was always loads of music in the house. I got bitten by the bug early. It’s always felt like something I have to do – like an addiction. List of priorities in life: 1) Singing 2) Chocolate 3) Finding a husband.
You’re always on the look out for a Mr Redfern in your shows, aren’t you?
Yes, always. And I think I’ve just found a possible suitor, here in QX. Ricardo, 11 inches. Oh my! He’s even included his number. Shall we give him a buzz?
Errrrrrrm, no Topsie, step away from the back pages. That theme of looking for a fella continues through your new show, here at Manbar. What’s the premise?
Well, I’ve got a touch of ‘Middleton Syndrome’ and have set my sights high. I’m aiming to find a bit of posh totty. The path to becoming a Disney princess is never an easy one though. Expect new songs, videos and lots of audience involvement. HRH Topsie Redfern Princess Bridezilla’ is at Manbar every Wednesday throughout October, from the 9th.
What do you like about Manbar?
Oh let me show you what my absolutely favourite thing is about Manbar. Once I get up here there’s no getting me off.
[laughs] Get back down here, there’s a queue forming. You’ve just become an ambassador for the Cancer is a Drag charity too, right?
Yes; Alan Bugg, the brainchild behind Cancer Is a Drag asked me to be involved. I was very honoured. As a performer it’s easy to become solely focussed on you and your ego, so it’s great to use performing to make a difference to other peoples lives too. Lots of charities raise money for researching cures for cancer which is fantastic, but there isn’t a lot of financial support for people who are living with cancer. Cancer Is a Drag aims to do just that. We’ll be holding a special gala night for the charity here at Manbar on 23rd October.
• Topsie Redfern’s show HRH Topsie Redfern Princess Bridezilla runs at Manbar (79 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0NE) on the 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th October. She also performs at Bar Titania (75 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 7PY) on the 20th October.
