The White Swan’s PR manager and resident DJ would like to visit the court of Elizabeth I and walk along the Great Wall of China.
Where are you from originally?
I’m from Norway originally, but moved to Wales when I was four years old as both parents were in the airforce. We lived at the RAF St Athan base.
And where do you live now?
I live in the East End and live alone but for my French bulldog, Oberon.
What do you love about London and why?
London has always been my home since I was sent to a boarding school aged 12. I love its diversity, the fact it’s a 24 hour city and can be a friendly place to live.
What was the first gay venue you visited?
A basement underground club called Tunnels in Cardiff. I was 16 at the time, but looked older, and it’s also the place I met my first true love, a guy called Danny. We spent four years together.
How did you get into DJing?
I was working as a trainee chef in a big club/restaurant and asked the DJ if I could have a go, so he taught me how to use vinyl and to mix. One night he phoned in sick so the manager asked me to cover and that’s how it all started. I then stopped being a chef and became a DJ.
Can you pick one track that sums up what you play at the White Swan?
Euphoria by Loreen because that’s what we like to give you. At the Swan we always want you to walk away feeling euphoric.
What was the last theatre show you saw, and what did you think of it?
I went a few weeks ago to see Dreamgirls and loved every second of it. I have the playlist on my phone and love to sing in my car. I think I’m Beyonce.
Favourite club/bar/venue in London and why?
We’re very lucky to have so many great venues still going in London. But if I had to pick my all-time favourites then for best club it has to be Heaven in the old days; I spent so many nights throwing myself around the dancefloor and cruising the guys. The best bar would have to be The LA in Old Street, alas no longer going. But I think the White Swan is a great bar and club and I try and make sure everyone has a good time.
What is your guilty pleasure and why?
Chocolate. I’m a diabetic and not allowed it, so when I do eat it it’s a guilty pleasure to me.
Biggest extravagance?
My dog. He was £1,500 but worth every penny. He’s brought me so much happiness and pleasure.
Best gift you’ve ever received and why?
This year I turned 50 and my beautiful friends Shane, Jim, Gethan and I went to Amsterdam to celebrate. Shane, aka Saucy Sophie, gave me a padlock with my name and age and a message from him, then took me to the bridge of locks and I was able to lock it on the bridge and throw the key in the canal and make a wish. It was such a great gift and a pleasure to share with my mates.
What has been the highlight of your career so far and why?
The highlight so far has been to become the PR manager of the White Swan. I love my job. I still DJ now and then but working with such talent out there is a pure joy. We have a great team at the Swan and I love working with them all.
If you could go back in time which year would you choose and why?
I would like to go back in time to Elizabethan times. I see myself in her court putting all the entertainment on. Also I love history and would love to dress up in the clothes of the time, even the dresses!
What’s the best party you’ve ever been to and what made it so good?
A long time ago I went to a house party that tuned into an orgy and went on for three days. You can guess I didn’t walk away, I crawled.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Kelly Wild told me years ago never to get involved in bar politics.
Who is your LGBT+ hero and why?
Sir Ian McKellen has done so much for the LGBT scene and has never become a big head for it. Also Paul O’Grady; that man took the gay scene out of darkness and onto tv. Also the work he does for dogs and animals is so amazing.
Who are the most entertaining people you follow on Twitter and why?
I don’t use Twitter much, but on Facebook it has to be my friend Shane, aka Saucy Sophie – he makes me laugh out loud. I also love Tracy Barlow and the new drag queens coming up the ranks, so much talent out there.
Where in the world would you like to visit before you die and why?
I want to see the Great Wall of China, and China; it’s a place full of history.
What is one thing you wish you knew when you were younger?
Don’t spend so much time waiting for love, go and enjoy your life, and always see both sides.
The White Swan, 556 Commercial Road, Limehouse, E14 7JD.
bjswhiteswan.com
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