DRAMA STUDENT TAKES CT MR GAY SA FINAL

André Lammers, a 23 year old drama student and part-time model, has scooped the 2010 Mr. Gay SA South Regional title in Cape Town.

The event was held on 7 August at The Glen boutique hotel in Sea Point and was hosted by manager and co-owner Chris Hattingh.

The competition was attended by friends, family and supporters of the contestants as well as members of the Mother City’s LGBTI community such as well-known “Spin Sister” DJ Mitzi; local drag performer Fabulusha; 2009 finalist and Bone Wear Model of the Year, Chris Mcgregor; and Evan Tsouroulis of Out Africa magazine.

René van Reenen entertained the crowd with her renditions of Shirley Bassey numbers like I am what I am and Diamonds are forever.

The contestants competed in an interview section, which counted for 50% of their total score, and in formal wear, jeans and underwear by Bone Wear.

In addition to Lammers, the first runner-up was 34-year old Errol Stroebel, food and beverage manager of the Cullinan Hotel and 2nd runner-up was Ernest Gravett, whose supporters made up a very lively first row of the audience. Wandile Mbunyuza from Khayelitsha, a volunteer worker for Health 4 Men, took the Mr. Personality crown.

Lammers and first runner up Stroebel both qualified for the Grand Finale of Mr. Gay South Africa 2010 which will be held on 26 November in Johannesburg.

Lammers won prizes in excess of R 20,000, including a bursary, a diamond and precious stones pendant, a weekend away, a voucher from Bone Wear, a cruise to Mozambique courtesy of Alternative Travel and numerous product hampers.

The judging panel consisted of Mr. Gay South Africa 2009 finalist Shahin Eskandar; Brazilian fashion designer and previous coordinator of the Miss Universe pageant in West Africa, Luiz de la Ja; Gary de Klerk, editor of Pink Tongue; and Blaine Shapiro-Dodds, brand executive of Good Hope FM.

The Mr. Gay South Africa 2010 tour continues with the North Regional Final on Saturday 4 September at 8 pm at Brooklyn Theatre in Menlo Park, Pretoria. For more information visit www.mrgaysouthafrica.co.za.