After nearly 20 years of throwing some of London’s biggest and most outrageous parties, Popcorn stalwart, “Mother” and beloved promoter Chris Selby-Rickards aka “Big Gay Al” is retiring from club life and heading for foreign shores. So Popcorn are throwing him one hell of a leaving party on Monday 21st March!
Before he gets too busy securing restraining orders from numerous Bondi Beach lifeguards, we asked him to take us through his tastiest Popcorn moments. In Mother’s own words, of course.
How did I get involved with Popcorn?
Almost by accident actually! I had friends at Heaven (before I worked there) and it was a right time-right place scenario. Popcorn needed a dedicated promoter and I needed a job!
What makes Popcorn unique?
Many factors.
Size: Given that it’s on a weekday! First time visitors are amazed at how busy it is and on a Monday night!
Customers: I’ve always preferred a mixed ‘metrosexual’ crowd, doesn’t always work but 99% of the time it’s a fabulous melting pot of different people with large groups of friends out together, giving it a wonderful house party feel.
Staff: I’ve always tried to have majority DJs, dancers and animation staff that don’t work elsewhere on scene.
Approach: We have weekly large themes so every week is a special event. Not always an easy undertaking! We don’t take ourselves too seriously and there is always a lot of humour involved in everything we do.
…and most of all…
Music: Our main floor sound is unique on scene in London. When everyone else went deep/tech we stayed progressive/ “big room” sound. It served us well and continues to do so.
What am I most proud of?
Its longevity; 19 years and still going strong. I think that deserves respect!
Funniest moment?
After 15 years there have been so many, but I guess for me it was fracturing my ankle falling/almost flying off some giant platform stilettos, whilst drag queen racing through the club one night. Hurt like a cunt but it was so funny I laughed through the pain. Gin helped.
What will I miss?
Everything to be honest. The people (staff) most of all, naturally. Also the rush of a great show or production. I love doing some of the larger annual events, particularly Halloween and Carnival. They take ridiculous amounts of planning, and stress the fuck out of me, but they are so enjoyable. I go into competition with myself to try and outdo the previous year – especially with Halloween, in with the ‘disgusting’ stakes. I’ve stopped just short of cadavers in the past. Dead animals are legal though, right?
What’s next?
A new life, new start and some adventure. I am going to Australia where hopefully I will marry a Hemsworth or at least blow one on a stunning beach somewhere. I’ll let you know!
Anybody I’d like to thank?
My god, too many to mention! To David Inches for giving me the job in the first place and teaching me everything I know. Thank you to everyone who’s put up with my diva dramas and had faith in my wacky ideas. Everyone who has supported and worked tirelessly to keep Popcorn at the top of its game. A ship might need a captain but needs it’s crew more. And lastly thank you to Jeremy. Whilst he owns the brand, he’s given me a free hand to run Popcorn how I wanted and always supported me even when he hasn’t agreed with me.
Do I get my Oscar now?
Have I ever shagged a gogo dancer or DJ?
You won’t believe a word of this, but no! I have made some great friends but no lovers. Maybe I’ve missed opportunities…but frankly if you saw me naked you wouldn’t want to shag me either!
Best Drunken Moment?
I don’t drink any more. (I don’t drink any less either). Moons ago, one night, I decided I was too drunk to attempt going home so figured I should sleep it off in the office. I was discovered by one of the duty managers having made a nest under a desk and surrounded it with boxes etc to conceal myself. The shame!
Most Embarrassing Moment
I suffer terribly with anxiety, so I actually plan very cautiously to avoid embarrassing moments. But one time I was on stage, packed house, dressed as Big Gay Al, making some speech on the mic about something and some drunk twat stage invaded and pulled my trousers (and pants) down. 2000 people saw my penis. It was upsetting.
Why am I such a cunt?
Cause I am Mother. And Mother knows best! We also go to Iceland. Apparently.
• Come bid Chris farewell at Big Al’s “Last Tango in Popcorn” on Monday 21st March at Heaven (Under The Arches, Villiers Street, London, WC2N 6NG), 11pm – 5:30am. Last entry 3:30am. £4 before 1am, £8 after.
