Glamorous and glittering Powys residents took to the stage at a star-studded event in London last week.
Renowned sculptor Andrew Logan’s “Alternative Miss World” event celebrated its 50th birthday at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London with – of course – a gold theme.
In 1972, Mr Logan had an idea for a party which was inspired by the British dog show Crufts and international beauty pageant Miss World.
The event was created to be something that celebrated not those same beauty standards but transformation, creativity and celebration - a show that goes beyond gender, age, and nationality. Mr Logan said: “What we look forward to each time… is an atmosphere of creative confusion and chaos.”
Montgomery contestant Miss Filthy Lucra - Jamie Burt, with Deborah Simmonds assisting - was presented to the audience as contestant number 1 by hosts Andrew Logan and Jarvis Cocker.
“It was an immense privilege to perform on stage at Shakespeare's Globe and to take part in the golden anniversary of the Alternative Miss World,” said Jamie Burt.
“The event has a fascinating history, as highlighted in the film The Great British Guide to Showing Off. I’m especially pleased Powys was represented by Deborah, Rosie and me in this beautiful, colourful celebration of diversity.”
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Ms Simmonds added: “It was a particular thrill to participate in this year's Alternative Miss World since Andrew was celebrating 50 years of glorious, inventive, creative mayhem.
"Although it is a competition, there is a wonderful sense of camaraderie amongst the competitors as everyone puts together their amazing outfits in the cramped Globe dressing rooms within a very tight time frame.
“There was also the thrill of coming out onto that fabulous golden stage with a truly colourful, enthusiastic audience. A riotous sense of love and togetherness for everyone.
“It was a once in a lifetime experience which we will never forget.”
The pair competed alongside another North Powys entrant – Miss Entitty – Rosie Hammick who said: “I have never felt more at home - having the space to express my creativity alongside such wonderful artists, performers and creatives.”
Ms Hammick lives in Llanfechain and works with Mr Logan, and the eventual winner Miss Golden Girl London’s Janet Slee - Mr Logan’s sister - who has competed in every single Alternative Miss World since the 1972 inaugural event - winning for the first time this year.
The golden anniversary celebrations featured performances from David McAlmont, Barb Jungr, Drag Syndrome, Eve Ferret & Lenny Beige, and Jonny Woo. Special guests included Grayson Perry and Bishi, and designers Dame Zandra Rhodes and Celia Birtwell were among the judges.
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