David Raven, who gained fame as the drag performer Maisie Trollette, has died at the age of 91 in Brighton, England. A longtime fixture of the British drag scene, his passing was confirmed by his friend, Scott St. Martyn, who mentioned that Raven had been living in a nursing home prior to his death.
Raven’s illustrious career as Maisie Trollette began over fifty years ago, characterized by his signature blonde wig, elaborate makeup, and dazzling sequined gowns. His repertoire included classic show tunes and playful humor, earning him a beloved status, especially within the Brighton and Hove Pride community, where he played a regular and vibrant role.
Coming out as gay in his early twenties, Raven embraced his identity during a time when being homosexual was illegal in the UK, a law that was amended in 1967. He began performing in drag amid the genre's rising popularity, notably influenced by the famous drag artist Danny La Rue, who admired Raven's talent.
Initially describing himself as a “pantomime dame,” Raven sought to establish respect for his craft as he ventured into drag performance. It was in the 1960s that he gained recognition as one half of the drag duo, The Trollettes, alongside fellow performer Jimmy Court, who took on the name Jimmy Trollette.
Raven's legacy as a trailblazer in the drag community will be cherished, as he was not only an entertainer but also a mentor to emerging drag queens, fostering a creative environment for future generations.
Raven’s illustrious career as Maisie Trollette began over fifty years ago, characterized by his signature blonde wig, elaborate makeup, and dazzling sequined gowns. His repertoire included classic show tunes and playful humor, earning him a beloved status, especially within the Brighton and Hove Pride community, where he played a regular and vibrant role.
Coming out as gay in his early twenties, Raven embraced his identity during a time when being homosexual was illegal in the UK, a law that was amended in 1967. He began performing in drag amid the genre's rising popularity, notably influenced by the famous drag artist Danny La Rue, who admired Raven's talent.
Initially describing himself as a “pantomime dame,” Raven sought to establish respect for his craft as he ventured into drag performance. It was in the 1960s that he gained recognition as one half of the drag duo, The Trollettes, alongside fellow performer Jimmy Court, who took on the name Jimmy Trollette.
Raven's legacy as a trailblazer in the drag community will be cherished, as he was not only an entertainer but also a mentor to emerging drag queens, fostering a creative environment for future generations.
