Spotlight is Manbar’s way of showing London the incredible array of talent this city has to offer. They’ve had everything from sexy burlesques boys and babes to opera stars to fire-throwers through to dirty dance troupes! Topsie Redfern hosts the night, who herself has a great range of voice and sharp wit, adored by the crowd and performers alike. Spotlight Unplugged is their current singing competition running in place of the regular show, and with their Grand Final next Tuesday 18th February, QX spoke to host Duncan Day to find out more…
Tell us a little about yourself as host. What’s your background in entertainment?
My background is in classical music having trained at the Royal Academy of Music but I’ve always been involved in some capacity or other with other music and show-biz scenes. Spotlight has brought me some outstanding performers and I’ve honestly learnt the most about this industry and its people from my work with Manbar and the show.
Why is Manbar the perfect venue for Spotlight?
Manbar is bang in the middle of the West End and therefore attracts a mixed crowd of punters from the regular theatre-goers through to muscled-up bears looking to hear some twink belting out a Whitney classic. It’s a feel-good bar where everyone simply loves a good time in a fun environment with hot bar staff to top it all off!
How do people apply to participate in Spotlight?
Very simply through the Manbar website or contacting me directly: [email protected]
We hear you’ve had over 60 performers take part so far! Can you give us some of your favourite moments?
Drag bitch Coco Femme Fontaine giving birth on stage to ‘Circle of Life’ squirting ketchup from her pussy was pretty remarkable but as everyone who’s been to Spotlight will vouch, there are incredible moments EVERY show.
Why do you think it’s been so popular?
The eclectic range of performances every show. At the beginning, it was predominantly singers, but as word spread we got applicants from every type of artist. The most outrageous we’ve had yet was an angle-grinding burlesque act who nearly caused a blackout as she grinded her vagina (which was protected), sparking mayhem amongst the crowd.
And finally, what are you hoping to see in the big final next week?
The final brings together three singers who’ve showed unique, raw talent and individual personality throughout the competition. I’ve heard a lot of singers and these three are already stars. I can nervously say it’s going to be one hell of a tense evening and I hope loads of you can come and give them as much support. Spotlight, in its regular format, will return after the competition.
• ‘Spotlight Unplugged: the Grand Final’ will be at Manbar, 79 Charing Cross Road, Soho, WC2H 0NE on Tuesday 18th February, beginning 10pm.
