Timberlina Redfern and Hay Baylan

What’s on the menu, Timberlina?

Timberlina is hard to ignore… a giant drag queen with fantastic legs and a beard. HOT’s Erica Smith asked some mean questions about Rye and other things…

Q: Timberlina – how would you describe yourself?
A: I would describe myself as lovely, of course, but vanity is a bit naughty and I rarely look at myself.  However recently I was described as ‘Bill Nighy in a twin set’ and then the other day at a shoot I was described as ‘Wookie drag’ as my part as Pam in a stage version of Dallas (I’ve probably said too much already!)

Q: You live in Rye. Why?
A: Because I was fed up with the sheer unadulterated self-importance of London, not to mention some of the people in it. And it brings me closer to the sea. And the St Leonard pub.

Q: What are your hobbies?
A: Cooking, foraging, cycling, tending the allotment, watching films and spending far too much time contemplating the tyranny of modern living.

Q: How long have you been a Bingo Mistress? And what can we expect from a Timberlina Bingo night at The St Leonard?
A: I have been a Bingo caller for about 7 years at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern in London every Monday except for Bank Holidays. I’m self taught. As for what to expect from a Timberlina Bingo night at the St Leonard? I would say remove all expectation and savor the moment. Bingo with Timberlina is a lesson in life.

Q: Tell me about the Back in the Room gigs that are starting at the White Rock Theatre soon?
A: Well, they started at The School in Rye and it’s a platform for new and emerging local performers to share with more established names, which frankly I think is a lush combo that floats my boat a lot. I love variety, I love comedy and I LOVE local and they’re all here. Chrissie (Harmar-Brown) really got some great line ups. I love that a local 14 year old might be on the same night as an Edinburgh Fringe shortlister. I also really love challenging people’s expectations.

Q: Anything else you want to add?
A: Everyone should go to Back in the Room. And play Bingo at the St Leonard. It’s everything you could get in London, but without the attitude, train fair or expense!  KEEP IT LOCAL!

You can check out Timberlina and the rest of the local talent at the next Back in the Room, downstairs at the White Rock Theatre on Thursday 16 May. The next Bingay night at the St Leonards will be Tuesday 25 June. Book your ticket early – it’s very popular!

Also in: Performance