The UK’s oldest working drag artist – David Raven a/k/a Maisie Trollette – (now 88) – has an impending birthday which is documented in the new documentary simply titled ‘Maisie.’
Based in the UK’s gay mecca that is Brighton, Trollette is still dressing in sequins, sparkles and glitter well into his 9th decade, and is starting to show signs of slowing down, having been recently diagnosed with health issues.
A special birthday party is being held for Trollette, arranged by his best friend David Sutton a/k/a Miss Jason, and which will include an appearance by 87 year old American Walter Cole, who is The Guinness Book Of Records Oldest Performing Drag Queen in the World and is flying over from Portland, Oregon to meet David for the very first time.
Documentary filmmakers Lee Cooper and Deborah Aston have opted to base their documentary on the impending birthday celebrations and less so on the man himself. Sure we see him tottering away in his basement flat, including a highly engaging first meetup with Cole, and doing day-to-day tasks with an inpatient minder, but I felt there was so much more about Trollette that went unanswered.
But still, ‘Maisie’ is a great peak into what makes the old drag queens’ heart still tick (it’s the pure joy and love of performing), and long may she (and he) reign!
‘Maisie’ is in cinemas and on BFI Player and Bohemia Euphoria now from Bohemia Media