This morning I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the legendary stage performer, charity ambassador and television presenter, Paul O’Grady. I, like thousands of other audience members, were graced to experience Paul’s performance as Miss Hannigan in ‘Annie’ at the Edinburgh Playhouse last week. Little did we know that it would be his final stage performance.
As I said in my review, seeing him live on a stage had been something I had longed for, seeing his showmanship and sparkle in person was something a theatre fan could only dream of, and of course Paul gave one hell of a show. There was something magical about watching him, he had the audience in the palm of his hand, and it was clear he was having a ball. He oozed mischief within his characterization of Miss Hannigan, but through it all we could see the stunning human being beneath the villainous façade.
Not only has theatre lost one of it’s best performers but the world has lost one of it’s good men. Paul’s work with Battersea dog’s home captured the nation in ‘For The Love of Dogs’ helping raise awareness for charities that help abandoned dogs find new families. This helped hundreds if not thousands of dogs find their forever homes.
Paul’s alter ego, Lily Savage, was a trailblazer helping solidify drag queens into British culture, he also was a great ambassador for the LGBTQ+ community.
With this he was a superb presenter hosting his own chat show with Channel 4 and then ITV.
Britain lost one of it’s greatest performers and national treasures today, but we will always remember the naughty twinkle in his eye and the kindness he showed others. Rest in peace Paul.
Written by Lewis C. Baird (Editor of Theatre Scotland)
Theatre Scotland 