Jonathan Hellyer is considered the UK's top gay cabaret performer.

He has entertained packed houses every week, for over nine years, at London's legendary Royal Vauxhall Tavern with his one-man show the South London Action Girls Society and the iconic D.E. Experience. The menu of extremely adult humour, incisive satirical commentary and an astounding array of vocal impressions has won Jonathan awards and nominations including Midland Zone Magazine award for Best Cabaret Performer 2004, 2002 and 1999 and Scene Awards for Best Live Performance, 2005.

How it all started:

1975

Jonathan starts performing in front of audiences at the tender age of eight, appearing as lead vocalist alongside his three brothers in the band Blush. Regulars on the Midlands club and bar circuit for nearly 10 years, the band covered an eclectic mix of favourite tracks from the Andrews Sisters and Dead or Alive to Led Zeppelin and Sinatra. His humour, scathing asides and impressions of comedic favourites like Frankie Howerd and Kenneth Williams soon became part of the show.

1985

At 17, Jonathan moves to London as part of the Capital Pops Orchestra, a 30-piece swing and jazz outfit where his wide vocal range was put to good use in skilful interpretations of jazz classics such as I Get a Kick out of You and That Old Black Magic.

1989

Jonathan joins Bronski Beat alongside Steve Bronski and Larry Steinbachek. Together they tour Europe and the US, and released the Rainbow Nation album and singles I'm Gonna' Run Away From You and Cha Cha Heels, with Eartha Kitt.

1991

Jonathan establishes himself as a comedy cabaret performer appearing at cabaret venues throughout the Midlands, the North and Scotland.

1993

Birmingham's top gay nightclub, The Nightingale, approaches Jonathan to host a charity night as one of his most popular cabaret characters, Dame Edna Everage. So The D. E. Experience was born and a host of dates across the UK follow.

1997

Jonathan creates agony aunt Mrs Ophelia Legge, for Channel 5's afternoon show, Five's Company, carefully honing his tongue-in-cheek satire for the live show and daytime audience.

2003

Jonathan joins the award winning, 20-piece Big Smoke Jazz Orchestra as vocalist playing a host of prestigious festivals and venues.