Triple threat Larry Owens describes himself as ‘the Black James Corden’. But please don’t let that put you off. This flamboyant New Yorker is an extraordinary character, a frequently hilarious queer man blessed with an outstanding voice. His sound is infused with the power of a whole church choir and his influences are distinctly broad, from disco divas to Lil Nas X.

Over a brisk hour, Owens performs a mini musical melodrama that is sparked into life by a tantalising email from his agent. He punctuates his tale with comedy songs, at times performing as Oprah Winfrey, Viola Davis and Lupita Nyong’o. A short section as ‘Black Chuckie’ from Rugrats suggests a darker turn before he swiftly brings it back to the light with a barnstorming arrangement of The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air theme tune. It’s a trick that’s been done before but not quite like this: at once impressive, affecting and uproarious. 

Owens’ songs are unfailingly catchy and, despite requiring serious lyrical dexterity to perform them, he loves to get his audience in on the action, their vocal stumblings further emphasising just how good our host is. While the frivolous plot is part of its charm, one can only wonder what would happen if Owens applied his talent to something more profound. Nevertheless, it’s a joy to listen to his resonant, soulful voice. Charismatic and dazzling, Larry Owens is an uncontainable talent.  
Larry Owens Live, Assembly Roxy, until 27 August, 8.35pm.