Drag school

Last Sunday night I had the chance to pop down to the Exchange Hotel and watch Polly’s Follies. I think I have spoken about Polly’s Follies numerous times but every time I get the opportunity to get down and see the show, I have such a good time that I have to share it with everyone.

Polly has had a hand in helping many performers with their career, and will do anything for camp value. Many a time I have seen Polly out and about with either a whole roll of toilet paper hanging out of her knickers or a three-storey wig on and I have been met with Aahhhh, Maxi, I know it is ridiculous but it’s caaaamp! I will never forget jumping in a taxi with Polly one Sunday, making our way to Arq. On the way Polly was trying to convince the driver that we were two pretty prostitutes, in between jobs. I was roaring from the backseat as she, by the end of our trip, had him totally convinced.

I think that’s what makes Polly so special -“ she understands what it is to entertain an audience and not sit back and wait for the audience to entertain her. She’s a true showman, and I think it is an unwritten rite of passage for many young performers to do their time at Polly’s Follies. Working with someone who enjoys what they do and is very good at it normally rubs off on other showgirls.

Last Sunday’s performance featured Shit-Cargo, the hugely successful spin-off from the movie Chicago. To say there was a cast of thousands would be an understatement.

There are many career-oriented showgirls who have their drag goals set and are determined to achieve them. They always look fantastic in their outfits and make-up, but personally I think they are lacking in that extra spark. Is it because there are so many new showgirls out there now or is it just too easy now to be a drag queen?

Three showgirls who I think are just the bee’s knees are Luscious Lucy, Roma Therapy and the legendary Shirley Valentine. Let’s face it, these girls aren’t the prettiest nor are they in new frocks each week. But they get up and give 120 percent on stage every time. And it is obvious by the audience reaction they are quickly becoming very popular. Without Polly’s Follies these girls would never get the opportunity to have their own stage time.

If you are after a good laugh on a Sunday, go down and see Polly’s Follies at the Exchange Hotel. It starts at 7pm and seems to go forever but it’s lots of fun.

EYESPY The Stonewall underwear competition is back. This year the first prize is a trip to London and if the first week is anything to go by, the boys are gorgeous. It’s every Thursday night and hosted by the luckiest girl in town, Ricca Paris.