Trevor Ashley, the Australian drag diva and cabaret legend, has fearlessly challenged conventions throughout his career, earning a well-deserved reputation as an industry trailblazer. His bold approach to drag and cabaret has inspired countless performers, fostering greater acceptance and celebration for this unique art form. For one night only, Trevor Ashley - Queen of the Moment at the Lyric Theatre proved to be an undeniable triumph. This performance seamlessly combined camp and glamour with a genuine, heartfelt touch.
Accompanied by a magnificent 8-piece band, led by the sensational music director Brian Nash, Ashley was nothing short of entertaining. He opened the evening with a nod to one of his inspirations, Shirley Bassey, by singing her hit, ‘Get This Party Started’ (originally by Pink). From the very first electrifying opening number, it was clear that the audience was in for an unforgettable evening.
Throughout the evening, Ashley took the audience on a journey through snapshots of his life. From his childhood obsession with Tina Turner to his involvement in musicals and his stint on the drag queen singing competition television series, Queen of the Universe, every story was punctuated with a myriad of songs. In between songs, he interacted with the audience, delivering witty and self-referential jokes. The song choices were eclectic, ranging from classic gay anthems to musical numbers to lesser-known gems, and each one was skilfully and wonderfully delivered.
Highlights included a specially written parody with British references of 'I've Never Been to Me' (Ron Miller, Kenneth Hirsch) - his audition song for the original Priscilla Queen of the Desert - the Musical, Meghan Trainor's 'Made You Look,' and an energetic performance of River Deep, Mountain High (Phil Spector, Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich) in tribute to Tina Turner.
Amidst all the camp and glamour, Ashley also managed to tug at our heartstrings with two heartfelt tributes: one to his mom and one to his nan. In the former, his rendition of 'The Rose' (Amanda McBroom) was particularly moving and beautiful, bringing tears to the eyes of some in the audience, myself included. But the true highlight of the evening was Ashley’s impersonation and reimagination of Liza Minnelli. His performances of 'Maybe This Time' (John Kander, Fred Ebb) from Cabaret, the title song 'Cabaret,' and 'Memory' (Andrew Lloyd Webber, Trevor Nunn) from Cats were divine.
These genius rearrangements that combined different musical styles not only paid homage to the originals but also showcased his comedic talent and remarkable vocal versatility. The night concluded with two explosive encores: 'I Am What I Am' (Jerry Herman) and Tina Turner’s all-time hit‘The Best' (Mike Chapman, Holly Knight), sending the audience to their feet, cheering for more.
Trevor Ashley - Queen of the Moment was a theatrical, dazzling, roof-raising, mischievously delightful smash hit. It left the audience on this Monday evening feeling joyful, hopeful, and wearing smiles as they left the theatre. Trevor Ashley is not just a presence in the entertainment world; he's a force to be reckoned with, here not just to stay but to continue slaying the stage with his undeniable charisma, powerhouse vocals, and unparalleled artistry.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
AD | gifted tickets in return for an honest review
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