Drag & CabaretBETTER RINSE'S 'THE NEXT BIG THING'

BETTER RINSE’S ‘THE NEXT BIG THING’

30/07/13: ‘The Next Big Thing’ is the brand new night down at central London cabaret hangout, Halfway to Heaven. The bar that’s well known for offering up fresh talent and conceiving contemporary cabaret nights is giving one lucky performer the chance to snap up their own six week residency. Hosted by Bette Rinse, who has been nurturing apprentice acts for the last few months with her new talent night, every Tuesday, and judged by myself and the award winning cabaret star, Son ofa Tutu.


Bette preempted the second week of the competition with her quintessentially unique (we wouldn’t change her for the world) show, mixing animated sing-alongs with enlivening banter and discussion, ably assisted by Trindy twiddling her knobs. One of my highlights is always ‘Bette’s Question Time’, which, this week, featured light hearted debate about Twitter trolls and fracking – of all things! Sounds like something you’d do down at The Hoist, to me.
After our glorious hostess showed us how it’s done, it was time for the stars-in-the-making to shine. The two competing acts were drag artist, Crystal Tee, and male singer, Aaron Alexander. They did a sterling job of holding the audiences attention, delivering twenty minutes of entertainment, contrasting in style and delivery, with obvious parallels being drawn. Both performers were offered constructive critique and guidance from us judges and Bette.
Tutu and I convened to assess both acts strengths and weaknesses and decided to send Aaron Alexander through to the Grand Final, which will take place at the end of August. Forget karaoke male singers, Aaron can do more than just hold a tune, and has the vocal range to prove it. One that any seasoned pro would be proud of.
The Next Big Thing is a great concept and quite a relaxed affair – due to Bette’s endearing hosting skills. The ultimate prize will offer the winning performer a platform and exposure that money can’t buy. This, in turn, should hopefully enable them to network and reach out, whilst sharing their talent.

Halfway to Heaven, 7 Duncannon Street, Charing Cross, WC2N 4JF
Words by Jason Reid
Photos by Chris Jepson

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