The transformation of this very 'blokey' bloke into the gorgeously grotesque Widow Twankey is something that requires more than just a few tasteless costumes and a wig. An invitation to be Steve's dresser while
he gets into role gives me the opportunity to see how the change takes place.
" I’m a bloke in a frock," he says. Its not a drag act. Admittedly there is an element of camp, but if its too camp it becomes something else, and not traditional pantomime. I’m a man, but I’m wearing a dress. That's the joke. That's how its been since the days of Drury Lane." He hasn't applied any make-up yet, or donned any costume yet, but Widow Twankey is in the room.
He explains how the characterisation starts at the feet, how he can get into the role by just altering the way he moves.
