Right guys. I’ve been chatting to Steve “Stretch” Harman, who you may know from his bartending, flairing, or one of the many events he has compered, including last years Road House World Finals.

Have a read of this, and enjoy it.

When did you first begin practising?

Late 2001, TGI Fridays, Coventry.

What goes on in a standard practice session for you?

At first I just tried mastering the basics and slowly developed my own style and a few moves. When I was comfortable with my own ability, I just turned up the tunes and what happened – happened.

When and where did the flair scene explode for you?

Road House ‘02, first job in London working with some top players of their time. Tug, Andy C, Vicki Patras and loads more. I was like a sponge watching them work taking on as much as possible.

How or what inspired you to flair and get to the standard you are at today?

The reactions of the guests, the chicks, the tips and the satisfaction of doing a job I loved!

What is flairing about for you?

Seeing the world, meeting new people, push the art as far as possible.

What is the atmosphere like back stage before a comp? What is routine before you go on? Do you have a drink for Dutch courage and clam the nerves?

I haven’t competed for over 3 years now but when I did I was quite laid back. I never brought my own equipment. I always borrowed Tom’s (Dyer) tins, which always wound him up. I just told myself before I went on to smile and enjoy it because the crowd feed off that. I wouldn’t recommend drinking before hand because you just end up making a complete d*** of yourself.

What goes through your mind when you are on stage flairing?

Not a lot really, adrenalin takes over. Just to try and stick to the routine and have fun.

How would you describe your style in five words?

Smooth, Fun, Cheeky, Different, Rolls.

Where do you think flair will be in five years time?

I really don’t know? How far can we take it? I really wish someone would commission another “Cocktail” style film to take it major mainstream again.

What did you have to do to get to your first Roadhouse finals?

Be in the top 3 of any Road House comp in 2004, made it (just) and then came 9th in the November Grand final which I never expected and was over the moon about.

What does the Roadhouse comp mean to you?

The Big One.

What piece of advice would you give to a budding flairer?

Learn how to bartend first.

Written by Sam Martin