BRITAIN’s oldest performing drag queen has passed away aged 91.
David Raven, better known by the stage name Maisie Trollette, was a feature of the Brighton Pride parade since it started in 1973.
Britain’s oldest performing drag queen has passed away aged 91[/caption]
David Raven died in the early hours of the morning in Brighton[/caption]
Maisie Trollette was a feature of the Brighton Pride parade since it started in 1973[/caption]
He died in the early hours of the morning in Brighton, according to The Argus.
The LGBT+ trailblazer dazzled audiences for over half a century.
Born in St Ives, Cornwall in 1933, he grew up in Suffolk training as a grocer, publican and waiter.
David came out in 1959, aged 26 – when being gay was still illegal – and moved to London a year later.
His career began as one half of the drag duo The Trollettes with Jimmy Court.
The entertainer was a regular at venues including The Black Cap and the RVT.
Her performances were also a “staple” at Two Brewers, who released a touching tribute to the late star.
It read: “We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Maisie Trollette.
“David Raven, known by his stage name Maisie Trollette, was a pioneering figure in British drag performance.
“Born in 1933, he began his fabulous career in the 1960s, forming the duo The Trollettes with James Court.
“They captivated audiences at renowned venues such as The Black Cap and the RVT.
“Maisie Trollette’s performances were a staple at Two Brewers, where she entertained countless patrons over the years to a packed house.
“David was deeply committed to philanthropy, raising thousands of pounds for charities nationwide.
“His enduring legacy and contributions to the LGBTQ+ community were celebrated in the 2022 documentary ‘Maisie’.
“David passed away this morning at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of joy, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his craft.
“He will be deeply missed.”
The 2022 documentary Maisie captured Raven in the run-up to his 85th birthday celebrations.
Asked why she kept on performing into her eighties, she replied: “She said: “I’m working because I love what I do.
“Besides, have you seen the prices of bread and coffee?”
The LGBT+ trailblazer dazzled audiences for over half a century[/caption]
Born in 1933, David’s career began as one half of the drag duo The Trollettes[/caption]
Her performances were also a ‘staple’ at Two Brewers[/caption]
