CXR’s Got Talent is back and bursting with more new talent, following a successful first season last year.
After a bumpy first two heats the competition revved into full throttle for Heat Three last week, hosted by the glimmering Bette Rinse, who had only finished knocking up her new frock that afternoon. A seamstress as well as a top entertainer? Well I never!
Resident judges Son Ofa Tutu and myself were joined by, guest judge, Glam Jam’s CJ to preside over four very different styles of performers. Well, they do say variety is the spice of life. Brenda kicked off with a rendition of ‘If I were a rich man’, oozing charm and character, closely followed by Paul B with his smooth swing/jazz inspired set.
Penultimate entrant Mae Hemm (yay, at last a drag queen), was like a young Bette Rinse stumbling through a fun, self-deprecating performance, whilst assaulting our poor wee photographer, Marc. He is STILL having nightmares! Final contestant Debi belted out two show-stopping numbers blowing all of the judges and the audience away. Her performance of ‘Get Here’ gave me shivers and that’s not something I say often.
The panel adjourned to the ‘green room’ (the smoking area by the bins) to decide on the two acts that would progress further whilst Bette entertained the crowd. After several heated exchanges the judges had came to their decision that Mae Hemm and Debi had earned a place in the Grand Final. Congratulations to them both.
Jason chatted to the creative mind behind 79CXR, Dave Bunce from 79CXR this week:
DAVE: The first three heats have been a mixed bag but have been consistently entertaining. The real pleasure is not quite knowing what you’re going to get on the night. Heat four is this Thursday 22nd, the final heat is the 29th and the Grand Final is 5th April. The winner will get to perform at CXR’s eighteenth birthday party on the 12th. The fabulous Miss Bette Rinse and the gorgeous Mary Mac will be looking after the shows, which all start at 10.30pm.
Who can enter?
ANYONE can enter. If you can juggle budgies, fart the national anthem (that’s gotta be a winner at the moment!) or simply stun us with your vocal prowess, you’re welcome.
So have you found the next SuBo yet?
Not quite but most of the fun is in the looking. We’ve had some people with SuBo inclinations but could be generously described as deluded. Still entertaining though!
Do you secretly have a personal favourite so far?
I couldn’t possibly comment! As Godfather (mother?) of the proceedings I really couldn’t be seen to be taking sides. Too much of a pro dear…
• The CXR’s Got Talent heats continue until Thursday 29th March. If you want to be in with a chance of a place in the final then just turn up on the night to register. Good luck!
79 CXR, 79 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0NE
Photos by Marc Abe
