Sheila Simmonds is a home shopping superstar from Down Under who has already become a firm favourite on the UK cabaret scene. This Tuesday (29 Aug) she launches an exciting new concept with her Busy Lady Bingo at the Duke of Welly. Dave Cross had a catch up with this Aussie domestic goddess.
Hello Sheila, for those who haven’t had the pleasure, how would you describe yourself?
G’day Boyz! Well, I’m the original #busylady. Not only am I Australia’s number one home shopping presenter with my own line of products, I’m also a recording artiste and I hand out Werther’s Originals to anyone I think needs to take the edge off…
Can you tell us a bit of your history?
I’m an only child and in 1979 I represented New South Wales in the Miss Australia competition. After that I entered Young Talent Time where I met the Minogue sisters, Dannii and Kylie. We formed a band called SDK, but due to artistic differences it never took off. I then joined TVSN with my show Sheila’s Beauty Box and last year released my debut album Hashtags & Handbags.
Tell us about your home town of Wooloomooloo?
It’s a suburb of Sydney and it’s most famous for the pie shop, Harry’s Cafe de Wheels and of course myself… it’s also quite difficult to spell.
What are your biggest sellers on your home shopping show?
My signature scent – A squirt of Sheila and also my home brewed wine Chateau de Shite – we’re actually giving away a bottle every week at Bingo!
How did the Duke of Welly persuade you to host their new Bingo night?
The manager Oliver got down on his knees and begged me to do it. The only way I could get him to stand up again was to say yes.
What can you tell us about it?
It’s bingo with an Australian twist. We’ve got prizes galore to be won, cash jackpots, lots of audience interaction and loads of pink. I’ll also be making a special entrance (health and safety permitting) which you won’t want to miss.
And the prizes?
I can reveal that they’re exclusively from Poundland and China. Need I say more?
Anything else we need to know?
It’s going to be the best ball drop Soho has ever seen so get yourself down to the Welly every Tuesday, oh and dobbers are provided!
Entry is free, 99p to play.
The Duke of Wellington, 77 Wardour Street, W1.
Recommended for you
