Geelong-born performer Russ Vickery toured Australia recently with his new show My Other Closet the Cabaret, exploring domestic violence in LGBTQIA relationships. The colourful and flamboyant grandfather spoke to Luke Voogt.
What is your Geelong connection?
I was born at Baxter House in Geelong and grew up in Geelong West. I attended Geelong West State School and later Bell Park High School. My brother lives in Geelong West and my eldest son lives in Belmont with his partner and my four granddaughters. My 91-year-old mum recently left her home in Geelong West and took up residence at Grace McKellar where she is very happy. Especially when she became the reigning darts champion!
How has Geelong changed in your lifetime?
Geelong has changed so much in the last 60 years. Buildings are getting higher, the waterfront has gone through a huge transformation and the suburbs are spreading out. Growing up gay in Geelong in the ’60s and ’70s was… let’s just say… difficult. Attitudes in those days were very homophobic. I was so proud to be able to participate in the amazing Geelong Rainbow Festival this year and perform my show to a home crowd. My how things have changed!
What are your favourite places in Geelong?
There are three places on my ‘Geelong must-do’ list. First is the institution that is Man Bo Chinese Restaurant – the food and service is awesome. Next is Piano Bar – fantastic entertainment any night, but the drag shows on Sundays are extra special. Finally, as an avid Geelong Cats supporter, Kardinia Park is always pretty special to me. My husband is now pretty tired of me pointing it out every time we drive by the hallowed grounds and bowing to it with open palms!
Tell us about your recent play.
My Other Closet the Cabaret is my true first-hand account of my journey to being a domestic violence survivor. Over the years it’s become a celebration of both women and LGBTQIA people’s ability to survive and then thrive after abusive relationships. Through my storytelling and singing of re-worked classic pop songs, it dispels the myths surrounding domestic violence, especially in same-gender relationships. We have performed the show all over the country. Our February 2020 season in Geelong was so popular we’re planning to bring the show back to Geelong later this year.
What is something people might not know about you?
I am terrified of going on stage. I am a nervous wreck until I am actually standing on the stage and the first note comes out. Once I see and feel the connection with the audience, I take flight. It’s terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. When I meet people after the show and hear how it has impacted them I just can’t wait to get up and do it all over again.
