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From the
http://www.kentonline.co.uk 27 February 2014 by Suz Elvey.
Ashford gets new king of wok and roll as Chinese Elvis impersonator Tang
Ma turns The "Oranges" into "Memphis Bar" and Diner.
An Ashford music venue has been All Shook Up since being taken over
by a Chinese Elvis impersonator.
The veteran Hong Kong performer - known by his professional name Tang
Ma - is turning The "Oranges" into "Memphis Bar" and Diner, named after
the home city of Elvis Presley.
The restaurant, in Apsley Street, will serve Chinese food made by his
chef wife Shirley and two cooks. Every night, Mr Ma will perform songs
made famous by his musical hero.
The 52-year-old said: "Memphis Bar is in memory of The King.
"I don't believe Elvis is dead because when I hear his music it is
like he is all around me. His music is Always On My Mind.
"I liked Elvis very, very much since I was a little boy in Hong Kong.
I adore him and respect him and I love all his music.
"I have never had any singing or dancing lessons, I just
automatically knew how to do it. I should be performing every night
because I enjoy myself."
Elvis fanatic Tang Ma has erected a Graceland sign outside his bar.
The walls of Tang Ma's restaurant are adorned with Elvis memorabilia.
Tang's wife Shirley Ma hangs pictures of Elvis inside their Ashford bar.
For those who still have Suspicious Minds about whether or not an
Elvis-themed bar is right for Ashford, Mr Ma said: "I believe there are
lots of Elvis fans in Ashford that will come.
"All ages like Elvis - if you do his songs, people will like it. It
is not only rock and roll, his love songs are beautiful. Elvis never
dies."
Mr Ma has performed as Elvis since he was a child in Asia, including
at restaurants owned by his family members in London and Tunbridge
Wells.
But he said his new show offers audiences something different.
Mr Ma added: "People all over the world recognise that Chinese Elvis
is the best."
The "Oranges," which was renowned throughout Kent as a live music
venue, was owned by Shepherd Neame but it sold the building last month.
The bar and diner is due to open Any Day Now. Mr Ma is planning a
grand opening from 7pm on Tuesday, March 18.
To book a table, phone 01233 637950. |
