Our very own cabaret reporter Jason Reid has been a resident Drag Idol judge for the last five years and has seen his fair share of starlets hit the big time thanks to the competition. As he prepares to take his seat for another year of judging, Jason shares some advice and tips for prospective contestants on how to shine in the UK’s biggest cabaret competition…
- Dress to Impress – You’re on stage, dress like it! You should stand out from everyone in the room. Whether it’s bespoke or high street, make it your own, and make it dazzle.
- Get Your Look Down – Practice your makeup technique over and over until you’re totally happy with it. Your ‘look’ should reflect you/your character’s personality, and the judges will be looking for that.
- Devil is In the Detail– Personally I always look for the small details too, such as earrings, nails, accessories, lashes etc. Drag is about being over the top. Don’t be afraid to accessorise to the max!
- Suss Out Your Territory – If you’re trying your hand at a venue that’s new to you (and why not!) then pop along to see a show there, before your heat. This will give you an idea of the stage dimensions/venue shape, lighting and sound.
- Use Your Time Wisely – Ten minutes can fly by or it can feel like an eternity depending on the work you’ve put in. Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse and everything should go smoothly. Whilst onstage, play to the whole room, not just the judges. If you decide to come off the stage, and amongst the audience, try to be as brief as you can unless you’re making a huge impact out there. And if you invite an audience member onstage there should be a reason for it, don’t leave them standing there like a twat. This will only reflect poorly on you.
- Originality is Key – It goes without saying really, but try not to copy others, whether it’s subconsciously or not. Repeating “Werk hunty, slay gurl’ every few seconds or reeling off a string of jokes from Sickipedia just won’t cut it. Look at the previous winners of Drag Idol and you’ll see how individuality runs through each year.
- Create a Concept – You may be a great comedian or signer and that in itself may carry you through a whole set, but try not to rely on just one thing that others may also have, create a niche for yourself that makes you stand out, or a character and back story that you’re passionate about and one that the audience can relate to. This will give your act more depth and scope.
- The Show Must Go On – If you make a mistake during those ten minutes, DO NOT give up! And try not to panic. Make a joke of it, laugh and move on. It will put you and the audience at ease instantly. Even the most seasoned pro makes mistakes!
- Listen up! – Take the judges’ critique onboard. They’re there to help and offer guidance in a constructive manner. An experienced judge will be objective and never offer derisory feedback. There’s no Natalia Kills in Drag Idol…
- Promote Yourself – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, go the whole nine yards. BUT just not every ten minutes. Make your content engaging, and not just about how amazing you are!
- And finally, I always say, have FUN and ENJOY it! Drag Idol is a great experience whether you win or not. Take the positives and run with them. Huge respect and love to everyone taking part this year! Here’s to the Class of 2015!
•For a full list of participating venues and an application form visit: www.dragidoluk.com. • Drag Idol launch night is at The Two Brewers (114 Clapham High Street, SW4 YUJ) on Wednesday 8th April.
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