Velma Celli talks about her residency at The Basement in York

BWW speaks to Ian Stroughair's alter ego Velma Celli about her monthly residency at The Basement in York.

Tell us a little about your residency at The Basement.

Well, I am a born and raised Yorkie and have been looking for the right venue for my show in York for YEARS and finally last year I discovered the Basement and it's PERFECT! I did a one off show which sold out and was asked if I would consider a monthly residency which I happily accepted and it kicked off at the beginning of 2017. It's awesome fun!

What can audiences expect from your monthly show?

As you know I like to mix it up. The show always consists of various different musical styles and genres. In general each song has its own story, many mini shows if you will. Of course, a lot of impressions of people's favourite Divas including Britney, Cher, Shikira, Liza ..... there's a lot of diva in me AND each month a different West End or Cabaret star guest.

What makes performing in your hometown so special?

What's great about being back in York is the freedom to re unleash the York banter which is super fun. The crowds are awesome and very much part of the show and I feel like and back with my tribe. I also love that I can share my Cabaret and showbizzy experiences with my Yorkies as there isn't really any Cabaret in the city.

How do York audiences differ from London audiences?

They only real discernible difference is the confidence of a group of Yorkshire folk. They are not afraid to get involved and voice how they are enjoying something... like out loud, right there in the moment. So far so good, I haven't been pelted with Yorkshire puddings as of yet. Crosses everything!

And you'll have special guests performing with you?

Indeed. So far we have had local star Jessica Steel who gave a stunning vocal performance. Following Jess we had the First Lady of Cabaret the incredible Kiki Deville who was sensational and blew the roof off the basement. This Saturday we have West End star Genevieve Nicole (Chicago, Guys n Dolls, A Chorus line) and next months guest will be announced at the next show.

Is there anything else exciting that you're working on?

Yes. I am THRILLED to be going to Glastonbury this year. Also my show Iconic will be playing an awesome venue in London (which I'm not allowed to announce just yet) and I am also in talks with a producer for a show in Vegas. Casual!

Having performed in RENT, Fame, Cats and Chicago- are there any dream theatre roles you would still love to do?

I would have to say Hair. I love that show and like many of my other theatre credits it's a one word title so.. it makes sense to my OCD.

Velma Celli performs at The Basement every second Saturday of the month and ticket are available on their website.