Walk Like a Lady
(20 Years in Heels with Veronica Lake)
I remember the first time I saw Veronica Lake perform on stage, it was the late 80's, big hair and MTV were very much "in"; she was performing at the Grand Palace in Charleston and I was immediately star struck by her presence.
From the moment her entourage entered the nightclub, toting wigs and several breathtaking costumes, there was an energy that was ignited throughout the club and her performance left the crowd begging for more. The hair, makeup and costumes were unmatched by anything I had ever seen. She was a professional in all aspects of the entertainment business.
This week, it is my privilege to get reacquainted with Roger Wells, better known as Miss Veronica Lake to her fans, and am sharing our candid chat with WVQN's readers.
Last week on April 5, Roger celebrated 20 years of performing as Miss Veronica Lake. Woodstarr nightclub in Parkersburg http://www.woodstarr.com/ , WV was overflowing with friends and fans of the performer. It was a rare nightclub performance by the Diva and one that fans will remember for years to come.
Roger Wells was born on August 14, 1958 and grew up in Clarksburg, West Virginia. He has called Parkersburg home for the past 14 years. He has been performing as a female impersonator for 20 years.
Veronica would like to thank Woodstarr and good friend, Mimi Woods for a wonderful evening and the heartwarming hospitality that Woodstarr nightclub has become notorious for since it's fairly recent opening in Parkersburg. A great time was had by all and Veronica hopes to return to Woodstarr soon.
Jim: Have you always used the stage name Veronica Lake?
Veronica: Yes, I was inspired by the legendary actress Veronica Lake.
Jim: I know you balance a career, family and entertaining, how do you manage all of this?
Veronica: Being organized.
Jim: What other entertainers have inspired or helped you along the way?
Veronica: Viki Williams, Mimi Woods and Bridget Nickles
Jim: What are some of your former titles and accomplishments as Veronica Lake?
Veronica: Miss Parkersburg, Miss West Virginia USA, West Virginia Entertainer, Miss Castaways, Miss Crystal Coast World, Miss Tri State All Star, and Miss Pride of West Virginia
Jim: What are your future plans as an entertainer?
Veronica: I’m keeping my options open.
Jim: What type of music inspires you?
Veronica: I like all music.
Jim: What single quote best describes your philosophy on life?
Veronica: Live life to its fullest.
Jim: Were there ever times you felt that being a female impersonator caused people to stereotype you?
Veronica: No, my portrayal of my characters is a form of art to me. I have never felt that.
Jim: Tell me what is it like to overcome these stereotypes and how is your life just like any other gay man’s?
Veronica: My customers and clients are very supportive of entertainers like myself.
Jim: What advice would you give someone starting out in the biz?
Veronica: Take your craft seriously, but have fun too.
Jim: What quality do you find most attractive in other people?
Veronica: Sincerity
Jim: How do you stay current and maintain popularity with the younger crowds?
Veronica: I work with college students at Attractions, in Athens Ohio, and students are a primary group of my customers; they help me stay current on trends.
Jim: What political issues are closest to your heart?
Veronica: Health Care Reform
Jim: What Charities do lend your energy and support to?
Veronica: AIDS Taskforce, My Sisters Place, Covenant House, Living AIDS Memorial Garden, USO, Planned Parenthood, Dairy Barn, and the Tree Festival.
Jim: Thank you for this brief interview and insight Veronica. I know that you currently perform mainly for private clubs, events and organization bookings, but we look forward to seeing more public performances from you. You rocked the stage at Woodstarr on April 5. Please keep WVQN informed of your schedule.
For more information on Veronica Lake, please visit the entertainer's site at:
Interviewed by WVQN Speak Out reporter, Jim Lawson
Diva Veronica Lake at her 20th anniversary bash at Woodstarr nightclub recently in Parkersburg.
Interviewed by WVQN Speak Out reporter, Jim Lawson
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