Jason Reid chats to female impersonator Randy Roberts
Randy Roberts is an internationally acclaimed female impersonator who has been performing across the globe for more than thirty years. In this particular field of drag, he is up there with the best of the best.
Fellow impersonator and Drag Race alum Charlie Hides cites Randy as a lifelong inspiration.
This week, ahead of the London run of Randy Roberts Live, Jason Reid and Randy talked DIVAS and associated CAMPERY!
Hey Randy, welcome back to London. How are preparations going for your upcoming run at Crazy Coqs?
Hi Jason; and thanks. I’m so thrilled to be back in London. It’s been a crazy few weeks, getting everything ready. London is the third stop on my tour. I started in Norfolk, Virginia (the other Norfolk); from there I went on to Toronto, Canada, now London and then Sitges, Spain. These divas are truly dragging their behinds internationally (pun intended).
What can we expect from the show?
A bit of pop, a bit of rock, a bit of Broadway – or West End as I’m in London. The comedy ranges from subtle to in-your-face – much of it depends on the audience on the night. As for costumes – the words ‘rhinestones’ and ‘bugle beads’ spring to mind.
Which of your divas have you packed for the trip?
I’m bringing Bette Midler, Cher, and my own creation, Randy Roberts, who’s a cross between Ann-Margret, Liza Minnelli, and Joan Rivers – with a little Don Rickles thrown in for good measure.
What affinity do you have with the divas you perform as?
They’re all survivors, have a great sense of humour, and sing their asses off. They’re also not afraid to stand up for their convictions.
Do you recall how and when your love for musical divas began?
My sister gave me Bette Midler’s first album (on vinyl, when it was popular the first time round). I fell in love with her voice and her comedic timing. I then saw her live in concert and the relationship was cemented for life. Not that she knows anything about it! Cher was on television in the States in the 70’s, so she has been part of my memories for a long time. What’s not to love about her? She’s gorgeous, she sings, and those costumes!
What do you think of Cher’s candor on Twitter? She’s not afraid to say how she really feels. And she has a unique way of doing it that speaks to all ages.
I love Cher’s honesty and absolute sense of not giving a flying fuck about how anyone feels about her opinions. She’s always had no fear about being herself. Something to which everyone should aspire.
The world has changed a LOT in the last 10/20 years, including the way people buy and listen to music, yet these artists – your divas – have remained a constant. In fact, I’d say the likes of Cher, Celine and Bette have become more popular by adapting to the times whilst always remaining true to their art. Why do you think they remain consistently part of modern pop culture?
TALENT! ORIGINALITY! They each have distinctive looks, voices, and styles. A lot of the newer acts all seem the same. When you hear Bette or Cher, you know exactly who you’re hearing.
What else will you be up to when you’re in town?
I hope to have many afternoon teas (I love scones and clotted cream. My dresses don’t, but I do). I’m seeing Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, on my off night. I’m friendly with Bianca Del Rio, so it will be nice to see a sister on the West End stage. I’ve been to a pub or two in Soho, but I really don’t know them all that well. I hope to be well acquainted with many of them by the time I leave. And I’m coming back in July to see Barbra Streisand in Hyde Park…can’t get much gayer than that!
Randy Roberts Live! Plays from 18 – 23 June at Live at Zedel, Crazy Coqs, 20 Sherwood Street, London, W1F 7ED.
