25/04/13:Â Last year The Victoria made their debut appearance in Drag Idol, and the friendly East End boozer made it all the way to the final with the deadpan hilarity of Nora Bone.
This year, as the competition grows even bigger and better, they are looking to replicate, or even better, that success. Candy Slag in Drag was our host and in her inimitable style weaved the evening together like a paralytic, eccentric auntie at a wedding
The Bear Did Lady, got the night started with clever parody songs and topical humour which pleased both the crowd and judges. She was followed by Meth (I know – I chuckled too) who entered draped in a white bed sheet, dripping blood from the mouth, and proceeded to lip-sync, whilst cutting off parts of her costumes.
Very gothic and different! But unique, I rather liked it. Sadly the Walthamstow massive weren’t overly enamoured. Third up was a glamorous looking queen called Ruby Stone who mimed to some great numbers.
After a break, quick fag, and a catch up with all the gossip we settled down for penultimate act, Linda Bacardi who performed a brilliant Liza Minnelli opener, with manic facial expressions to boot.
As Baga Chipz and I wrestled for the dregs of the complimentary vodka, Coleen McColeen, from Manchester, who came second in their heat last week gave us a set jam – packed with laughs, with commanding banter, stage presence and a version of ‘I Wanna be a Billionaire’ changed to ‘I Wanna be on Benefits’ leaving the judges and audience in hysterics.
It was Coleen who was crowned the eventual winner before last year’s Drag Idol champion, La Voix, followed providing the closing entertainment. To say she went down a storm would be an understatement. Utterly sensational.
A hugely enjoyable evening and all of the acts entertained and most importantly uniqueness was a running theme.
Finally, a huge bear hug and air kiss to the adorable Manager Paul who looked after the judges and acts personally with such care, and good luck to Coleen McColon in the Semi Finals at the Black Cap.
188 Hoe Street, Walthamstow, E17 4QH
Words by Jason Reid
Photos by Mark Storey
