14/03/13: After eight weeks of hotly contested heats and an epic Semi Final, the Windsor Castle’s sensational, and at times controversial, new talent search, The Windsor Factor came to an earth-shattering climax last Thursday.
It was time to find out who would be walking away with the top prize of £500 and a paid gig at the Windsor’, as well as the other venues in Patti O’Dors’ empire.
It’s safe to say, as someone who sat on the judging panel from day one, that Hounslow seems to be a hotbed for great singers. (Who knew!?) Definitely the highest standard of any competition I’ve ever been involved in.
Friends and family of all the finalists crammed into the bar to cheer on their favourite whilst the absolutely delectable Mary Mac, in a beautiful bespoke gown, hosted the evening seamlessly.
Each singer was permitted to sing two songs to wow the judges: Patti O’Dors, Adora Dix, Sandy and some old trout called Jasmine (me tottering around in drag). The marathon competition eventually stretched over three hours and after much, MUCH deliberation the judges were tied on musical theatre beauty, Natalie and breathtaking all-rounder, Chris.
It was a genuinely dramatic and emotional finale as Mary Mac had the deciding vote, opting for Chris. There were tears of joy and cheers of support as a misty-eyed Chris reprised his final performance. T
here were even tears from the hardened judging panel – it’s been an emotional ‘journey’ for everyone. Congratulations Chris – you’re a star! You can see Chris performing in his own show at the Windsor very soon.
A truly thrilling night and a roller coaster ten weeks of talent searching. The friendly clientele; manager Brett; DJ Troy; host Mary Mac and the landlady that makes Peggy Mitchell look like a tamed pussycat, Patti O’Dors couldn’t have been more welcoming.
We recommend you get yourselves down there for a night of high spirits and camp!
QX Cabaret reporter Jason Reid chats to Windsor Factor Winner Chris
Jason: You’ve just won! How do you feel?
Chris: I’m totally over the moon but also in complete shock. I honestly wasn’t expecting to win it.
What are you going to spend the £500 prize money on?
Well, I have two babies, so I think I’ll buy them both something nice.
How would you describe your musical style?
I’d say it’s varied and eclectic. My mum raised me on Nina Simone and my Dad on Rock ‘n’ Roll, so I have many influences.
Who is your musical hero?
Stevie Wonder. He is living proof that if you have real talent and creativity you can triumph over adversity.
What’s your signature song?
‘Feeling Good’ by Nina Simone or Michael Buble. I love both versions.
The Windsor Castle at 152 Bath Road, Hounslow, TW3 3ET.
Words by Jason Reid
Photos by www.joel-ryder.com
