From Gaga to Garland: York’s drag superstar to host glittering concert – from her kitchen

York’s drag star Velma Celli will host a special fundraising concert for St Leonard’s Hospice live from her kitchen on Saturday (2 May), to add a little sparkle to lockdown whilst helping this great cause.

Ian Stroughair, the alter-ego of the fabulous diva, returned to self-isolate in his native York directly from a tour of Australasia.

He has since joined a host of fellow West End performers who have created online streamed concerts from their own homes. Following the success of the Leave a Light On concert, which saw people tuning in from York, London and even as far afield as New York, Ian decided to organise an intimate gig in support of the local hospice.

“Unfortunately, too many of us have seen the amazing work of the team at St Leonard’s Hospice first hand, as loved ones, including my mum, spent time there as cancer was making life increasingly difficult for them,” Ian said.

“So I have always wanted to find a way to support them, and this seems like the perfect opportunity.”

Brilliant impersonations

With so many conventional fundraising events postponed due to the lockdown, this is a great way for people to support the hospice whilst enjoying a fantastic, fun and fruity evening of live music in their own living room.

Velma’s repertoire takes inspiration from many of the best female vocalists of the last 75 years, from Judy Garland to Lady Gaga and beyond.

You can enjoy her hilarious impersonations of the voices – and peculiar mannerisms – of some of pop music’s most famous stars.

Tickets for the event are now on sale, available from Ticketweb here, priced at £7. 

“With all proceeds going to St Leonard’s Hospice, we are hoping that each person watching will buy a ticket, rather than one ticket for the whole room!” adds Ian. 

Audience members receive a link to watch the performance about 30 minutes ahead of the show, which can then be streamed on laptop, phone or internet-enabled smart TV.