Interview: Union J star Jaymi Hensley on QUEENZ: THE SHOW WITH BALLS!
As seen on ITV’s Walk the Line, Queenz: The Show with Balls! is currently touring the UK and features Union J star, Jaymi Hensley. We spoke to Jaymi about performing in this brand new show and their plans for the future.
You’re currently touring with Queenz: The Show with Balls! What made you make the move from pop star to drag star?
Drag has always been something I’ve loved. From growing up watching Dame Edna, Lily Savage, to working my local scene witnessing the great British drag queens, Drag with no name, Sandra, Miss Penny, Dr Bev, watching the comedy and interaction with the audience has always inspired me. As well as Drag Race, of course!
What makes this show different from other drag shows?
I think we marry old school British comedy drag along with the looks and dancing of the new Ru era of drag perfectly, complete with live vocals. I can honestly say the voices in this cast are sublime!
Which is the most nerve-wracking to do, performing in stadiums as part of Union J, putting on the Technicolor Dreamcoat or appearing in Queenz for the first time?
I’m a strange person who doesn’t really do nerves! I just have excitement and adrenaline, but maybe the only thing I was concerned about was stepping out dancing in 6-inch heels!
You reunited with Union J earlier this year, tell us about that?
Ahhh it’s been amazing, we decided at the beginning of the year to celebrate 10 years since X Factor and since then, we have sold out the London Palladium and we’ve been asked to be the special guests on Christina Aguilera’s tour! So far it’s been an amazing reunion with so much planned to look forward to.
You’ve come so far since X Factor, what’s next in store for you? Oh, I have no idea! Hoping that Queenz goes from strength to strength as I love the show so much and of course more success with Union J. Splitting my years between boyband and girlband seems pretty fun for me!
Queenz: The Show with Balls! is currently touring until March 2023, with further information here.