Interview

Paul Martin

by Phil Willmott
22/09/2005

It comes of something of a shock to see Paul L Martin, London's larger than life drag star, out of a frock and serving behind the bar of the Leather Exchange pub at London Bridge.

I'd received a press release from him announcing his intention of creating a "New York style" cabaret for the capital and I wanted to find out more. He should know all about how things work because he recently enjoyed a successful run in the Big Apple.

His regular appearances at the Battersea Barge have earned him a loyal and regular following in London, where he always manages to bring a dash of Broadway pizzazz to the stage no matter how tough the crowd or inhospitable the venue.

Q: So this is a big shift from cabaret star to East End landlady.

A: Well, not really, I always booked the acts for the Battersea Barge and managed the business side of the cabaret so when the owners bought this place I jumped at the chance to run things.

Q: What's the attraction?

A: I've always wanted to run my own venue and this pub has a lovely room upstairs where I can pick, book, and people can enjoy, some of the best established and emerging cabaret performers around. Come and have a look.

We go upstairs to a small but rather elegant room full of mirrors and striped pine which Martin hopes will bring a taste of New York to SE1.

Q: What exactly does "New York Style" cabaret bar mean?

A: It sounds slightly more glamorous than it is. It just means that there's no charge to get in but at the end of the evening a hat is passed round for you to show your appreciation of the artist. It feels rather sophisticated handing over dollar bills, I hope parting with pound coins will have the same effect.

Q: And what can people expect to see here?

A: Well, on Fridays, starting this week (September 23) I'll be introducing three established acts a night here and providing the opportunity for untried, new acts to get up and have a go in a supportive friendly environment.

Q: What kind of acts? Will there be a lot of drag?

A: Not necessarily, all kinds of things, comedy, singing... wait and see. Several of my special guests will be fitting their appearances in around blossoming TV careers but I also teach cabaret skills at the actors centre. I'll be encouraging some of my best pupils to test their abilities here.

Q: What do you tell your pupils is the secret of a good cabaret performance?

A: Honesty. Let the audience in, let them know who you are. If an act turns up at a venue and, through nerves or whatever, is distant and aloof on stage, the crowd won't warm to them. But if you can give them some insight into you as a person they're more likely to feel engaged and more importantly be on your side.

For instance lots of my pupils will automatically introduce a song by telling you the title and composer, maybe the show it's from, but that's not interesting.

If we the audience are to enjoy a particular rendition of a number, that artist's rendition, it really helps if they tell you a little bit about themselves, what the song means to them etc. Then you listen to their interpretation with a lot more interest.

Q: How "gay" will the venue be?

A: We're describing it as "straight friendly". I'm hoping the lesbian and gay community will be attracted to the place and they can be open here and celebrate an art from, cabaret, that flourishes, predominantly, thanks to gay friendly performers. But I wouldn't want anyone who's straight to feel unwelcome or uncomfortable here. I want this place to provide a great night out for everybody.

Q: A great free night out.

A: Well, until we pass the hat round

Tube: London Bridge/Borough.

Paul L Martin and pianist Michael Roulston will be hosting their weekly Piano Bar evening of song from cabaret professionals and budding newcomers from 8pm on Fridays - you can even bring your sheet music and have a go yourself!

Food available, reasonable drink prices. There is no cover charge and no drink minimum, but please remember that New York Style means that a hat goes around for your contribution to the pianist and host - so bring some pound coins!