A FEW months ago, a singing session with celebrated UK-based Guyanese performer Frank Holder at his London residence was not on Miss Guyana World Alexis Glasgow's 'to do' list.
But looking at the five feet, nine inches knock-out heeding each helpful hint with eagerness and her determination to hit even the highest of notes correctly, she seemed right at home in his studio, practising voice control, correct stance, entrance and pitch variation.
Alexis attended the first of several voice-training sessions on October 25. She arrived in London October 22, accompanied by personal designer, Derek Moore. She spent her first three days recuperating from jet lag and getting used to the change of climate. She headed back to Holder for more training last Wednesday.
Not even the cold weather has dampened her spirit. She is very excited about the trip. Franchise holder, Ken Chung, has arranged several events to introduce her to the Guyanese community. On Thursday, she attended an exhibition at the Guyana High Commission. Yesterday, she hosted a Fund-raising Dinner at Classic Club.
Apart from singing lessons and continuing her research on Miss World host country China, Alexis will also pick up make-up and hair technique tips, attend a photo shoot and shop for additions to her wardrobe. She travels to Sanya, China, alone.
But, Chung assured that there's enough time for sightseeing before her departure Friday. For now, her focus is on perfecting her notes. She will be competing in the Miss World Talent, Sports, Drama and Model competitions, which will be held over the one-month period the 110 Miss World contestants are in China.
"It went well," declared an upbeat Miss Guyana World after more than three hours at her first practise session. On that day, she settled for the cool and comfortable look - casual blue jeans, black cashmere sweater, waist-length leather coat and fashionable black knee-length leather boots. Her ebony shoulder-skimming tresses hung loosely. Her face glowed with shades of brown makeup and reddish-brown lipstick.
Holder thought they hit it off too. Her unbelievable energy and lighthearted personality definitely won over the seventy-something-year-old artiste. Holder, a lively person himself, is something of a legend in London showbiz circles. With performances of a mixture of jazz and popular classics, he has won numerous competitions since the 1940s, opened shows for Nat King Cole and other famous artistes of that era, and toured extensively promoting his records. As the seasoned entertainer replaced the microphone, he chatted with Chung, who, along with Moore, spent the time reminiscing about the 2001 and 2002 pageants.
"She has a good voice. It just needs fine-tuning," remarked the Guyanese who still performs after more than 50 years in the business. Chung's face lit up. He wants his new queen to make her mark at the Miss World Pageant, which will be broadcast live on December 6.
She hopes to impress the judges with her rendition of a traditional Guyanese song - still going through selections. But, choosing a talent was no taxing task, she said.
"I've been singing all my life. I was performing at school. I love performing," the Berbice native said. Even though she can sing, she needs to dig deep within her self, Holder repeatedly recommended.
"When you're singing a song, you're telling a story. You have to be able to put on any face," the older singer told the caramel-toned petite beauty queen. Since she plans to pursue her dream of becoming an actress after her reign, unearthing the performer tucked away inside is vital to her success on stage or before the camera.
As Holder and Chung, and Moore, who spends his nights doing finishing touches to Alexis' garments, relaxed in the living room, Alexis finally talks about winning the pageant in another room. Surprisingly, after more than a month as the queen, she still gets flushed every time she relates the details.
"I was just a simple old country girl going from Berbice to compete against 12 girls mostly from Georgetown and winning. I used to say, 'what the hell am I doing in this pageant?' And, I won through strength and prayers."
Alexis has moved from village life to the spotlight - make-up, chic clothing, trips to exotic places and meeting high society. She now represents the entire country, especially young women, and the impact she makes at the international show will determine the respect of her successor.
"I will do my best. I'm going to give it my all," she assured.
She has also been keeping abreast with pageantry news in Guyana. Asked about her opinion on the reported hostility between former Miss World queens, Odessa Phillips (2002) and Olive Gopaul (2001) who are both vying for the Miss Guyana Universe 2004 crown, Alexis chose not to say much. However, she made it clear that she will not allow anyone to interfere with her reign.
"This is Alexis Glasgow's time. I will not have anyone interfere with my reign," the straight-talking trainee flight attendant stated. She went on to wish both girls, whom she found to be very likable, the best at the upcoming pageant. Her support is behind her little sister, 19-year-old Alisha Faria, who is also competing for the Miss Guyana Universe 2004 title. It is Alexis' time to be in the supporting role.
Hearing that her sister has started training this week, she had this message for her: "Stay focused. Be strong and confident and don't listen to anybody who is negative."
Alexis has no time for negativity herself, this 'country girl' is soaking up experiences every step of the way.
The one thing she is counting on is her homeland's support on pageant night.