Every month cabaret supremo Jason Reid trawls through the upcoming events so you don’t have to, and picks his cream of the crop for Gay London Life. October is one of the busiest months in cabaret land with spooky spectaculars and hot ticket drag competitions…
Not Another Drag CompetitionNot Another Drag Competition at Royal Vauxhall Tavern
Every Monday, from 7pm
This grassroots drag and cabaret competition is back at a new home after a three and a half year break, thankfully with the same brilliant host: Me (formerly Meth). Past participants include Cheryl Hole, Chiyo, Mark Anthony, Rhys’s Pieces and HERR. It’s clear to see from that impressive roster of alumni why this competition is held in such high regard and so often serves as a springboard to an instant cabaret career.
Tube: Vauxhall
Dave LynnDave Lynn at The Old Ship
Saturday 2nd, 9.30pm
The Old Ship is a gem, a proper wholesome community boozer. The atmosphere is always warm and welcoming, and the staff and guv’nor, John, really know how to look after people. With living drag legend Dave Lynn performing, serving up big songs and witty repartee, this is bound to be a great night.
DLR: Limehouse
Cancer Is A DragCancer is a Drag presents… A Macmillan Coffee Cocktail Cabaret Evening at Two Brewers
Wednesday 6th, from 7pm
It’s been a while since the last big LGBTQ+ cabaret charity night, what with the rona and all that. When the community comes together in this way it tends to bring the best out in people, and these events are always a great deal of fun. Proceeds go to Macmillan Cancer Support, and this seated affair is spearheaded by Cancer is a Drag founder Alan Bugg aka Avaline A’Love. There’ll be performances from Son Of a Tutu, Danny Beard, Ruby Violet, Cynthia Seaward, Claudia Prini and Letta Meatcake.
114 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UJ
Tube: Clapham Common
Shania PainShania Pain at Halfway to Heaven
Friday 8th, from 8pm
Two shows in one night from a drag artist that knows how to bring the party. Shania Pain can SING! Friday nights were made for lashings of ABBA and Whitney reverberating around a room full of hyped-up gays. After the last 18 months, we deserve this.
Tube: Charing Cross
Whats Good1? CabaretWhat’s Good Cabaret: Second Verse at Colours Hoxton
Sunday 10th, from 7pm
Celebrating Black History Month with Veronica Montenegro and Shakona Fire – the brilliant architects of this loud, live and new cabaret mixtape. There’ll also be performances from Beau Jangles, Loxx Blaxx, Effigy of Chaos, Bee Jamming and Miss Terri Boxx.
Tube: Old Street
Jamie Anderson: Poz DaddyJamie Anderson: Poz Daddy at Above the Stag
Friday 15th, 7.30pm
A musical cabaret about living with HIV and becoming a dad. The name alone instantly draws me in. Expect live music and stand-up aplenty as self described all-round show pony Jamie Anderson guides us through their remarkable journey.
Tube: Vauxhall
LipSync 1000 Grand FinalLIPSYNC1000 – Grand Final at The Clapham Grand
Thursday 21st, from 7pm
One of the most popular shindigs in the annual cabaret calendar. After 8 weeks of hotly contested heats, 20 artists join Jonny Woo, John Sizzle and celebrity judges for the grand final. Only one can be crowned the LIPSYNC1000 2021 winner and walk away with a tasty £1000. Grab a ticket while you can!
21-25 St. John’s Hill, SW11 1TT
Overground: Clapham Junction
The Endy Horror ShowThe Enby Horror Show at Phoenix Arts Club
Sunday 24th, from 7.30pm
Undoubtedly one of the few success stories of the past year. Producer Joshua Young aka Carrot has worked tirelessly on this concept (and it shows). The idea being that non-binary artists – that are often overlooked – are prioritised. This Halloween special takes places at the gorgeous Phoenix Arts Club, nestled under the Phoenix Theatre. Ken, Colin and the team do an amazing job there, do support them. Expect spine-chilling drag, burlesque, comedy, singing and more!
Tube: Leicester Square
Drag SyndromeDrag Syndrome Halloween Spooktacular at Proud Cabaret
Wednesday 27th, from 7pm
An award winning troupe of drag queens and kings with down syndrome that exudes star quality and charm. Every show is a life-affirming experience. All tickets include a welcome drink. Tricks and treats provided by Horrora Shebang, Justin Bond, Lady Francesca and co.
8 Victoria Embankment, WC2R 2AB
Tube: Embankment
Pop Horror SLASH VegasPopHorror presents Slash Vegas at Royal Vauxhall Tavern
Wednesday 27th, from 7pm
The Halloween event from the people who truly know how to do Halloween because they do it all year round. PopHorror is the brainchild of producer and horror-fan Paul Joseph, and since its inception five years ago it’s become a solid RVT favourite. Featuring Evelyn Carnate, Smashlyn Monroe, and more!
Tube: Vauxhall
Words and recommendations by Jason Reid
