Helpmann nods for queer artists and performers

Sydney performer Trevor Ashley is among a host of queer artists and creative professionals up for honours at the 2012 Helpmann Awards.

Ashley has received two nominations. For his role as Natalie Portly in Fat Swan, Ashley will be up against musical theatre legend Anthony Warlow for the Best Actor in a Musical award, while his Shirley Bassey tribute Diamonds Are For Trevor garnered a Best Cabaret Performer nomination.

“To tell you the truth I think I have buckley’s of winning,” he told SX. “It’s an odd thing to be nominated against someone you have grown up with and admired for so long, like Anthony.

“Especially when he’s nominated for a role he’s about to take to Broadway, and I’m nominated for dancing around like an idiot in a leotard.”

Jokes aside, the actor and SX columnist admitted it was an honour to be recognised by his peers and the wider industry.

“I’m pretty chuffed as both nominations have come from shows I created, and it gives you faith that you’re on the right track,” Ashley said.

Other notable people in the GLBT community nominated for a Helpmann Award include David Page (Best Original Score), Todd McKenney (Best Male Supporting Actor in a Musical), Paul Capsis (Best Male Actor in a Play) and Jack Charles (Best Male Actor in a Play).

The awards ceremony will take place at the Sydney Opera House on September 24.

[Pictured] Trevor Ashley as Shirley Bassey in Diamonds Are For Trevor. Photo: Mark Dickson

The Helpmann Awards from 8pm, Monday, September 24 at the Sydney Opera House. Tickets $100 from (02) 9250 7777 or www.sydneyoperahouse.com