Diva DegustationCreated and performed by Trevor Ashley

Diva Degustation

Created and performed by Trevor Ashley

Ensemble Theatre until March 29

Reviewed by Ron Lee, CSP

Trevor Ashley’s cult followers will be delighted with his first show in the Year of the Yin Metal Ox.

Diva Degustation is set in the form of a menu in which the courses are presented by various singers to which Ashley pays tribute.

After the opening introduction, a wig change facilitates the entrance of Eartha Kitt.

Other tributes are to Judy Garland, Adele, Shirley Bassey, Carol Channing and one of Ashley’s most popular and accomplished impressions, Liza Minnelli. He has Minnelli’s speaking and singing voice mastered to the point of perfection.

If you’ve wondered what Cher would look like if she went on the Elvis diet, you’ll find out when Ashley performs “If I Could Turn Back Time”, complete with choreography, the costume and Cher’s characteristic vocals.

Diva Degustation isn’t a big, lavish production in the style of Ashley’s other shows such as The Lyin’ Queen and The Bodybag - The Panto. In the small Ensemble Theatre, it’s more like an intimate chat and a private performance, accompanied by a drummer and a pianist.

The surprise ending is delightful, moving and powerful.

It’s no wonder that Trevor Ashley has attracted such a devoted following.