Drag Idol is coming to its (fake) nail-biting final and our roving cabaret reporter Jason Reid interviewed the final five contestants who made it through to the fabulous end…
Cherry Darling: Rainbows, Coventry
How did you feel when you found out you’d qualified for the final?
I was totally numb and a little overwhelmed. Those first feelings quickly subsided into mentally choosing which shade of lippy should I wear for the final.
Why did you enter the competition?
These opportunities give acts like myself the chance to showcase our talents, and I feel it’s a good barometer to see if what you’re doing is credible and worthwhile for people to come out and watch.
How long have you been performing as Cherry?
I’ve been schlepping around in heels for three years now.
How would you describe your act?
Glamour, glitz, live vocals and huge tits.
Who is your Drag Idol?
Ceri Dupree.
LoUis CYfer: West 5, Ealing
What’s been your Drag Idol highlight so far?
When I realised ice queen Tanya Hyde was a judge at my Halfway heat I was petrified, however her comments were so positive; I was totally gobsmacked.
Has everyone been supportive in general?
AbsoLoUis! The family I’ve made throughout have given me so much advice and confidence, LoUis owes them his life, literally!
How would you describe LoUis?
A gender bending, sexuality offending sheriff of Soho (formerly known as wild Westminster).
How long have you been performing as him?
It all started in February this year, when my weekly residency at the Admiral Duncan began.
Who is your Drag Idol?
Jason, you know full well you are my idol!
Dusty Springs: Halfway to Heaven
This is the second consecutive year that you’ve reached the Grand Final, what differences have struck you this year?
Well aside from it being a tougher final this year with five acts not four, the main difference is that I know all the other acts already. They are some really strong characters.
What’s been your highlight so far?
Apart from continuously being asked to sign dusters? Erm… It must be the support I have received from Halfway; I entered the competition very nervous and they have really built my confidence up.
How long have you been performing as Dusty?
Just over a year.
Who’s your Drag Idol?
Titti La Camp.
Coleen McColon: Rem Bar, Manchester
Last year you reached the semi-final stages, this year the Grand Final, you must be delighted?
I’m absolutely over the moon. I still can’t quite believe it!
How long have you been performing as Coleen?
Intermittently for about four years.
What influences Coleen’s performance style and look?
Coleen is a bit of a mishmash of various different influences. Obviously the benefits department plays a big role.
What’s your game plan for the final?
To give it all I have. And I may even have a few surprises up my sleeve…
Who is your Drag Idol?
Lily Savage. And from the current cabaret circuit: Miss Thunderpussy.
Matilda Von Mattress: Central Station
What has Drag Idol taught you as an artist?
To practice, practice, practice, accept constructive criticism, grow a thicker skin, and to have confidence in my abilities.
Is the competition what you expected it to be?
Having followed previous years, I had a fair idea of what to expect. Titti La Camp, Kelly Wilde, the judges and team behind Drag Idol make it happen, and it’s wonderful that despite its name, the competition is available to everyone who wants to have a shot at performing.
Describe your act in five words…
Nana with a bad attitude
How long have you been performing as Matilda?
Just over six months.
Who’s your Drag Idol?
Bette Rinse.
The Drag Idol Final is on Friday 4th July at The Two Brewers (114 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UJ).
