The inimitable Shirley Bassey has sold off 50 of her show-stopping gowns to raise money for charity. And the iconic performer managed to send the bidding at Christie's in London through the roof, by singing as each item went under the hammer.
Before the sale began, she took to the podium and sang "hey big spender, spend a little time with me," as the roomful of millionaire guests erupted in applause.
And her efforts seem to have had just the right effect, as the auction brought in five times the figure expected. It was thought that the event would raise around £50,000, but the final figure was closer to £250,000.
The gold and silver beaded gown she wore for the 1964 Bond film Goldfinger was sold for £18,000, after Shirley broke into the theme from the movie. And she then sang Diamonds Are Forever and I Am What I Am, before her rendition of This is My Life brought a standing ovation.
It is believed that the famous Welsh flag dress, which she wore to the opening of the Millennium Stadium, was bought by Shirley herself for £7,000. A glitzy chiffon number, which she donned for the 1953 inauguration of President John F Kennedy, meanwhile went for £6,500.
The 66-year-old had to wipe away tears as the last of the gowns was sold. "We have had a wonderful 50 years together and I should not be sad," she said. "They are going to a good cause to raise a lot of money for my two charities."
The money from the auction is to be split between the Dame Shirley Bassey scholarship, the Royal Welsh College of Music and the Noah's Ark Children's Hospital appeal.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
