No stranger to the Brighton scene, the tall and striking Spice has been gracing the stages of the gay cabaret circuit for more years that she'll possibly care us to mention. Once half of titan duo, Sugar & Spice, instantly dubbed The Twin Towers due to their considerable stature, Spice has since struck out alone. In the subsequent few years, she has certainly not been backwards in coming forwards and, in addition to her countless hostessing and cabaret appearances, is also known to strike a pose for the odd magazine cover and clubnight poster.

Spice is also extremely generous of her time in supporting local charity events and, as an avid supporter of REALBrighton, has also graced our float - sitting on the back of a convertible Merc clutching the hand of my rather bewildered mother. On a personal level, she has also been very kind in her support my own, rather less spotlit, foray into the world of entertainment on the gay scene.

So when Spice asked if I would pop along to see her new show in the rather wonderful Saturday afternoon laid-back cabaret slot at The Queens Arms, I was delighted to return the favour.

Standing nearly 8ft tall in skyscraper killer heels and sporting a rather burlesque basque and jaunty top-hat fascinator it was glamour all the way from the top of the show. A less well-worn path of musical numbers with a few favourites thrown in provided the basis for her brand new show with a rather distinctive West End to off-Broadway theme and its clear that Spice's voice lends well to both torch-song tribute and rousing crowd-pleaser. Strong vocals and even stronger delivery.

For me, what sets Spice apart is her extremely comfortable relationship with her audience. Old school banter, witty one-liners and audience-targeted wise-cracks are all delivered with a genuine fondness for the people who have taken time out to watch her show. This isn't about being outrageous for the sake of it or the use of bawdy obscenities just because she happens to be holding a microphone (not that she's Sister Wendy either). I like that. I like the thought that goes into it and I like the warmth of it all.

So go and see the multi-talented Spice when the next opportunity arises. Whether it's her weekly Thursday karaoke party night at The Queen's Arms, or one of her cabaret shows (keep an eye out), it will certainly bring a smile to your face. Let's face it (and I have been desperately trying to avoid the puns - I shamelessly give up), there's no harm in spicing things up a little!