Jane Eyre Square
GayinGalway.com interviews Jane Eyre Square, half
of the newest drag duo to hit Galway!
GIG: What is the significance of your name? How did you get that name?
JANE: Well it actually took me a VERY long time to come up with a name! But I was told that it would just spontaneously come to me...and it really did! At the time, I was preparing for an English exam on Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre. I was desperately trying to cram for the exam on the bus that morning, and I took a small break and looked out the bus window--I saw a sign for Eyre Square and, well, the rest is history.
What first drew your attention to Drag? Why did you first get into Drag? When did you start?
My attention was drawn to drag from a very young age. It started way back in 1998, when Dana International won Eurovision for Israel and I was---and still am---obsessed with her winning song. Its my dream to follow in her footsteps! I loved the controversy she caused, and the bravery it took for her to win. I started drag on 11th of April this year in The Stage Door in Galway along with Amanda Cummins and our agent DJ Patrick Molrooney.
Who and what are your influences?
My main influence is Dana International, without a doubt. I love a lot of the Dublin queen's images also, but I try my best to keep my image as independant as possible.
How would you describe your act?
Well, as a duo with Amanda, I would say I am the more serious, glamorous, sometimes slutty one, and Amanda would take over the comedy side of things.
Describe your look: Are you going for ultra-feminine, glamour, comedy, or something else entirely?
Definatley the ultra-feminine, glamour look. I'm cold at heart and I want the attention! [laughs]
What has been your biggest gig so far?
Without doubt my second outing in drag was the biggest in terms of the reception we got from the audience. I think on the first night people thought we were just having a laugh but, for the second night, Amanda and I pulled out all the stops in terms of outfits and gave it our all and it really payed off. We can safely say that night help us to make our mark on the drag scene in Galway. Twirley (AMI 2004) was particularly impressed.
Do you sing live, or lip synch?
Lip synch!
What's your favourite song to perform?
"Think Twice" by Celine Dion. It seems to get people's attention after Amanda's crazy, witty performance, and it seperates our styles. As a duo I would have to say our favourite song to perform is "Daddy Oh" by Ladyface.
Some would argue that Drag artists are a symptom of a healthy and thriving gay scene. Do you agree?
I totally agree with this statement. If one walks into a gay bar, anywhere in the world, and sees a drag act, well then they know that there is a big gay community near! Drag queens will only perform to a large audience in my opinion.
And what about those who don't particularly enjoy drag? What would you say to them?
That is totally their choice. Unfortunatley we get alot of 'those kind' here in Galway but as long as they don't insult me then its ok.
Last Question: Have you ever been chatted up while in Drag? Did they know? Did they care?
YES! There are tranny chasers everywhere in Galway. Most of them are foreign, or very old. I can remember one man in particular who said he would buy a bingo ticket off me if I removed all my clothing. He didn't play bingo that night. I also got chatted up by a lesbian on another occasion. Bless.
Thank you for your time, Jane. We look forward to what you and Amanda do next!