No topic off limits for Willsy

Nov 17, 2014

Ann Wills glitzy stage outfit is outshone only by her personality. Photo: Jo-Anna Robinson

After almost 50 years in the spotlight, South Australian personality and multiple Logie winner Anne Wills sits down with newspaper columnist Peter Goers to discuss the ins and outs of her colourful life in her Feast Festival show Willsy: The Gay Divorcee (Well … Sort Of).

Dressed in a hand-sewn golden skirt, mirror-ball jacket and trademark large ear-rings, Willsy takes to the stage in an outfit which is outshone only by her vibrant personality. Over the course of an hour, she leads her audience on an eye-opening journey through her impressive career. From her humble beginnings working at John Martin’s and The Hotel Richmond, to her time as a weather girl and beyond, she speaks candidly about her personal and professional life, sharing stories that raise eyebrows and tickle funny-bones.

Spurred on by Goers’ questions, Willsy shared hilarious anecdotes and often scandalous gossip, and in doing so revealed a surprising new side to her personality (who would have thought she would be a Game of Thrones fan?). She has a compelling stage presence and speaks with the confidence of a woman who has embraced who she is.

No topic seemed to be off limits, and her willingness to share her life so openly was refreshing. Despite her successes, Willsy maintains an air of humility and genuine gratitude, with a positive outlook that is inspirational.

A talented array of surprise guests joined her on stage as she treated audience members to a musical score of cabaret numbers and entertaining duets which showed she has not lost her powerhouse voice.

Having grown up watching Willsy deliver the evening weather report, it was a real treat to hear about her experiences as a young hopeful in Adelaide’s blossoming television industry. I also loved the way she and her guests formed an informal guard of honour so audience members could speak with them when the show ended.

A down-to-earth performer with a wicked sense of humour, Anne Wills is a gem. Her show is a must-see for fans.

Willsy: The Gay Divorcee (Well, Sort Of …) is being presented again on Wednesday, November 19, at Queer NEXUS in the Lion Arts Centre. It is part of the Feast Festival, which continues until November 30.