Who is Trevor Ashley?
I guess I’m a bit of a jack of all trades… I’ve been onstage since being a child, but also directed musical theatre, concerts, play piano, and do orchestrations amongst writing scripts and anything else I can fit into my day. My life is showbiz and I live for it. I’m also single and enjoy long walks on the beach.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I have no idea. Honestly, I have been obsessed with the industry since I was so young, I never developed an interest in anything else. Except drinking. So I guess I’d own a bar. That sounds about it!
Who inspires you and why?
People who inspire me are the amazing legends in this industry. Sometimes I get up in the morning and think – how am I going to continue hustling for gigs for the next 50 years? Those that have I have the utmost respect for: Sir Ian McKellen, Bette Midler, Dame Judi Dench – they all inspire me in different ways.
What would you like to do to make a difference in the world?
I’d like to play a part in ending HIV… I know we are getting closer in the western world, but it still needs so much support for countries not as fortunate.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
A Greek island called Paros. It’s basically paradise and nobody really knows about it. I lie on the beach and daydream. Total Heaven.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The NGV is always a favourite – one of the best galleries in Australia. Well, that and The Peel after 3am. It’s performance art at its finest.
What are you currently reading?
Alan Carr’s book Alanatomy: The Inside Story. I want to be him in my next life.
What are you currently listening to?
As usual, Shirley Bassey live at Carnegie Hall. My favourite Bassey album, and even though I sing all the songs from it, it’s still on high rotation.
Happiness is?
Making an audience laugh uncontrollably. I love it more than any other sound in the world.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully a career as long as Ian McKellen’s. That and owning a small villa on Paros. The best of both worlds…
Celebrating Shirley Bassey’s 80th birthday, Trevor returns to Melbourne with his acclaimed two-act show, Diamonds are for Trevor – for one Gala evening at Hamer Hall on Thursday 18 May 2017. For more information, visit: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au for details.
Image: Trevor Ashley