UK’s oldest drag queen who was ‘trailblazer’ for LGBTQ+ community dies aged 91
Britain’s oldest performing drag queen has passed away aged 91.
David Raven, also known by his stage name Maisie Trolette, performed drag for more than five decades, and had been a fixture of Brighton Pride since 1973 when the event was first held in the city.
Widely regarded as a legend within the LGBT+ community, he was revered for his razor sharp wit, dynamic singing voice and cantankerous personality, the Argus reports.
Born in 1933, David’s career began as one half of the drag duo The Trollettes with Jimmy Court.
Raven was seen as a trailblazing figure in the drag scene, and regularly performed at venues including The Black Cap and the RVT.
He was also a fixture on the pantomine circuit and performed with many A-list celebrities who he was proud to call close friends.
In 2023, David celebrated his 90th birthday with a special birthday gala event at the Brighton Dome, featured music from all nine decades of his life.
Drag Queen Scott Burey, who performed with David on a number of occasions, told Metro: ‘The word “legend” can be flippantly used at times, losing its connection to the remarkable and extraordinary.
‘But David – and Maisie – were both remarkable and extraordinary. He was the epitome of a true drag artiste – not queen – ARTISTE!
‘He was a kind, generous, giving, extremely funny man – on and off stage – with an incredibly mischievousness to his personality that never tainted or ebbed away as the years passed.
‘I will truly miss him, and INCREDIBLY privileged to have been able to call him my friend.’
The Two Brewers, where David regularly performed, posted a touching tribute to the late icon which 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.’
And fellow drag queen Phillip Arran, AKA CC Swan, told Metro: ‘I moved to London in 1991 with a dream of working in West End theatre shows.
‘I came from Swansea, to work as a guest singer in (then famous) drag queen’s shows.
‘I was introduced to Maisie on the circuit, and way before I started doing my own drag shows, I used to go see Maisie in venues around London.
‘Maisie (David) was so generous and helpful. I’d be invited up to sing and afterwards, given tips on mic technique.
‘When I (some 6 years later) ventured into becoming CC Swan (and any time our paths crossed beyond that) Maisie/David always congratulated me on being true to who I was and what I could do – I’m hoping that meant being funny and singing well!
‘I used to love being at Maisie’s show in the old days, when anything went and everyone knew the name and phone number of her B&B. This is truly a tragic loss to the community. RIP beautiful person.’
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