Behind The Sequins: Paul’s Path To Guapatini’s

From West End stages and Drag stardom, Paul Burnham’s journey as performer has been anything but ordinary. Now, as the force behind Guapatini’s Showbar Lanzarote, he shares his story of resilience, reinvention, and glittering success.

Have you always been a natural performer?

I was always a bit of a show-off as a child. If my mum lost me in a shop she’d know where to find me by following the laughter and giggling. I’d be in the shop window dancing.

We moved to Scotland when I was eight and I started going to a lady who did elocution and L.A.M.D.A acting exams. That’s when I started to get a real love for acting.

What happened after that?

I played parts in local theatre productions like the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz, Fagin in Oliver, Daddy Warbucks in Annie, all the shows that use lots of kids.

Later, I auditioned at the Guildford School of Acting. It all took off from there. I left the school with a scholarship, went to London and performed lead roles in musicals like Joseph, Beauty and the Beast, and the West End revival of Grease.

I presented “Toonatics” for Children’s BBC and starred as Hex Mortimer in the film “Colour Me Kubrick”. It wasn’t a mega hit, but I’m proud to say that I featured in a film alongside John Malkovich!

After that I took a break from acting for a year, performing in a few musicals and pantomimes in the meantime.

When did Guapatini come to be?

I spent 6 weeks in Málaga performing a Jersey Boys tribute when I was asked if I would do a Drag act. I was reluctant at first but agreed anyways.

A good Drag act always starts with creating the persona. I settled on the name Guapatini. “Guapa” meaning pretty in Spanish and “tini” giving it a little sparkle.

How did you find it?

It was a steep learning curve, but it was a very popular act. I had been on UK tours, and I was being booked to go to lots of restaurants and cabaret clubs across Málaga.

The shows were so popular that I sold my house in the UK and opened my own venue in Torremolinos. The original Guapatini’s Showbar enjoyed a hugely successful 18 months before the Covid pandemic hit and forced me to close it for good. It was heartbreaking.

How did you find your feet again?

I worked at Music Hall Tavern, which brought Guapatini to Lanzarote. I left after 3 years and opened a successful gay bar; however, I knew what I really wanted to do was reopen Guapatini’s.

How did you find it?

It was a challenge, reopening the bar in Lanzarote, but the response has been fantastic. I cannot thank everyone enough, from help getting the bar up and running, to spreading the word and leaving fabulous reviews online. It’s going from strength to strength, and I can’t wait to watch it continue to grow.

What can visitors expect from at night at Guapatini’s?

They can expect the same level of production quality and showmanship as seen at the original Guapatini’s – that you might not expect to see in Lanzarote. From the special effects to custommade projections, I put my heart and soul into every show.

It’s a real variety show. From the musical numbers and ventriloquism to audience participation, no two shows are alike. That’s what I think defines Guapatini’s.

Thanks, Paul, and best of luck for the future.

You can find Guapatini at the Centro Atlántico on Av. De Las Playas, 24, 35510, Puerto del Carmen.

Ready for the Best Night of Your Holiday?

With rave reviews pouring in, Guapatini’s is a must-visit in Puerto del Carmen. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, this is one night out you won’t want to miss.

📍 Where to Find the Fun: Centro Atlantico, Av. De las Playas, Local 37, Puerto del Carmen
🎟️ Book Now – Shows fill up fast! Secure your spot: https://guapatini.com/