Tom Lenk is Trash

• Claire Sawers
• 6 August 2019

This article is from 2019

A sassy treat featuring 'Tilda Swinton' and a Trash Talk

Fans of the addictive Instagram account of LA comedian Tom Lenk, who recreates red-carpet looks from celebs like Cardi B and Sandra Bullock using only garbage found lying about his house, are in for a treat with this live version. Lenk, from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel, has a passion for fashion, knocking up couture gowns from bin bags, plastic toys and bath towels, then posing in wigs or copycat hairdos made from pasta. He explains his philosophy through a Broadway number which morphs into 'Trashdance'; he loves collecting trash and doesn't understand the 'joyless' Marie Kondo approach.

After delivering a pleasantly incoherent and scientifically unclear 'Trash Talk' about why the past is better than the future, he introduces his character Eileen, 'America's number one crafting sensation'. In this interactive bit, she teaches the audience to unwind and make jewellery from chenille pipe cleaners while mumbling withering asides about their efforts under her breath.

He brings Tilda Swinton onstage via video, to time a #lenkslewksforless costume-making competition (a handy opportunity to plug his other Fringe show, Tilda Swinton Answers an Ad on Craigslist). Grounded but sassy, his warm, camp style is a joy and frequent fan references to Celine Dion, Bea Arthur and Kylie are a delight.

Assembly George Square, until 25 Aug (not 12), 6.35pm, £11–£12.50 (£10–£11.50).