Downe does Denise
Bob Downe, The Prince of Polyester, has teamed up with Denise Drysdale for a night of musical revelry, Ding Dong Downe, just in time for Christmas. Bob answers our questions.
What brought you together?
It was Mum’s idea. She thinks it’s high time I found a nice girl and she’d long given up on Jacki MacDonald or Jacki Weaver. She’s got a thing about a daughter-in-law named Jacki. I said, “Well, what about Jacko? I could marry Michael or Mark Jackson …” Aunty Bev roared but Mum didn’t think it was funny at all.
Seriously, though, Denise and I have done many a TV spot together over the years and we adore each other. Then last year we did Karaoke Dokey for Foxtel/TV1 – that’s when I suggested we should go out on the road together. Little did I know what a terrifying driver she is.
What songs do you do?
Cinderella Rockefella, I Got You Babe and Hey Paula. Don’t tell Ernie. There’s lots of other great rock’n’pop classics in our solo sections of the show – all backed up by our sensational four-piece live band, the Ding Dong Downers, led by John Thorn.
How would you describe the dynamic on stage?
Hilarious. Chaotic. Emotional. Childish antics. Yelling, running, screaming. And that’s just the dressing room.
You’re two very formidable personalities – how do you get on?
Well, thank God we don’t have the same shoe size is all I can say. But seriously, I think the Ath (Athenaeum Theatre) stage is more than big enough to accommodate the two of us. If there’s ever any tension, it’s a case of, “We said you do this and I’ll do that – what the hell happened?” We can both be a little, shall we say, unpredictable – but always with the audience or a laugh in sight. Because let’s face it, darling, Denise has worked with enough tired old arsehole male partners – I’m trying to vary the diet for her.
Are you and Denise linked romantically?
Can’t say too much but we have been seen loitering outside the Prouds window during late-night shopping. Stand by for an exciting announcement.
You’ve toured in the country – have you managed to iron out the wrinkles?
The wrinkles we’ve got need more than ironing out, darling.
Ding Dong Downe will play at the Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House, 18-23 December. Tickets start at $45. Bookings: www.sydneyoperahouse.com or 9250 7250.
