Fuchsia Von Steel, socialite, singer, entertainer and aristocrat, is the glam Brighton-based drag queen who blends 1950s film noir and horror, with a dash of the carnival! Graham Robson caught up with the cult icon to find out what she’s been up to online and her plans for the future.
Hey Fuchsia, tell us a bit about yourself…
I take inspiration from all over the place really, from golden era Hollywood to bad horror movies, to urban legends. In my shows you can expect to see anything from burlesque to sideshow carnival stunts! I love pulling out something unexpected!
What have you been up to?
As well as using this time to make new looks, I’ve also been doing a weekly story time every Friday on Twitch @fuchsiavonsteel and we just did the first online version of my monthly drag review Sleep Paralysis on our Instagram @sleepparalysisbrighton and I’m looking forward to the next one.
How’s it gone down?
Really encouraging actually! Funnily enough, I had a larger audience on Instagram than the capacity for my regular shows!
How does it compare with stage stuff?
I was very nervous to begin with in all honesty, as I tend to thrive on audience interaction. But we all ended up having a lovely time! It was also amazing to have people watching who are not usually able to see my shows, whether that be because of distance or accessibly issues. I had people tuning in all the way from New Zealand!
Seen anything else online?
Oh there is just so much material online now! From Queer Houseparty, to Joe Black doing shows from their living room, to Digital Drag, the list is endless. I think it’s a really interesting time for queer art right now.
Any tips to keep us from losing our minds during lockdown?
I’ve been using this time to finish all those projects that I started and left months and years ago! And for anyone watching any free online content, please tip your performers where you can, even a couple of quid, if you can afford it, it makes a difference to people who have lost a source of income.
What are your plans for when this is all over?
I think what I miss most is being with my friends in coffee shops, so I’m going to make sure we all go to brunch and just enjoy each other’s company without a screen between us.
Any words of wisdom to keep us going?
This is a difficult time for everyone right now, it can be a struggle to see the benefits of this new normal. I do however see these positive things daily, and it is important to recognise them as such and celebrate them! That and try knitting, it’s very relaxing.
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