Ophelia Balls: The Wigs, The Sequins, The Icon

🎙 In this episode of Geordie Pride: Voices from the North East, we're joined by the one and only Ophelia Balls-drag cabaret artist, radio host, performer, and self-proclaimed "prehistoric drag queen" (her words, not ours!).  Dubbed the Queen of Newcastle and even the real Angel of the North by many, Ophelia has been lighting up the North East with sequins, sass and sheer talent for decades-though she's the first to admit she's lost count of how long it's been! From Black Garter karaoke nights to touring the UK with RuPaul's royalty, from charity shows to drag pantos (and even a bit of telly), Ophelia's done it all-and isn't slowing down anytime soon.  We chat about everything from:  Her early days in the Scouts donning her first frock  The evolution of Newcastle's drag scene from the 80s to now  The art of wig styling and why charity shops were once drag goldmines  What it means to create a legacy, a brand-and a wardrobe to match  Her unforgettable debut at Rockshots   Why the Black Garter is her ride-or-die venue-and how 25 years there turned it into a local institution  We also hear touching reflections on her time supporting HIV awareness, performing drag storytime, and her thoughts on representation, respect across generations, and why being kind and true to yourself always wins.  This episode is full of sparkle, laughter, wisdom, and proper Geordie heart. 🌟  🎧 Listen now and don't forget to follow Geordie Pride for more stories celebrating the spirit of the North East!    OPHELIA'S BIO:  Ophelia Balls is a legendary drag cabaret artist from Newcastle upon Tyne. Known for her larger-than-life personality, 30+ wigs, and unforgettable stage presence, she has performed across the UK and beyond-from Benidorm to Belfast to Blackpool and back to her beloved Black Garter. She's hosted Prides, pantos, radio shows and club nights, and is adored for her quick wit, heart of gold, and iconic looks.    🔗 USEFUL LINKS:  📸 Instagram: @realopheliab   🐦 Twitter/X: @realopheliab  📘 Facebook: facebook.com/ophelia.balls.com.1   📻 Pride Radio: prideradio.co.uk    🌍 More from Geordie Pride:   🎧 Website: www.geordiepride.co.uk   📺 YouTube: Geordie Pride Channel   📸 Instagram: @geordiepride   💌 Apply to be a guest or sponsor an episode: geordiepride.co.uk/apply   📮 Want a shoutout? Tell us what you love about the North East: [email protected]