Directed by Ian Talbot, Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a celebration of all things drag, camp and fabulous. It tells the story of a road trip like no other – as three drag queens hop aboard a glittery pink bus and venture across Australia, only to discover new found friendships and relationships, and a deeper understanding of themselves along the way.
There are two trios in this production that shine so brightly; the Queens, and the Divas.
Strictly Come Dancing champion Joe McFadden steers the ship (or should that be bus) phenomenally in the role of Tick/Mitzi. It’s no surprise to anyone that he’s a great dancer, but he also has a great level of stage presence, and great vocals to match.
Miles Western embodies Bernadette flawlessly, delivering one-liners with perfect comedy timing and a level of sass that will make you belly laugh. I also really enjoyed the level of vulnerability Miles brought to the role.
Nick Hayes was fabulous Miss Understanding/Jimmy with seriously enviable sass and vocals.
Aiesha Pease, Rosie Glossop and Claudia Kariuki supported this trio with vocals that raised the roof, playing the Divas.
It’s larger than life, peppered with massive songs such as ‘Go West’, ‘We Belong’ and ‘Colour My World’ that are sure to give you goosebumps and leave you smiling from ear to ear.
The costume designers (Charles Cusick-Smith and Phil R Daniels) deserve a standing ovation purely in their own right. The wardrobes backstage must be bedlam, as the sheer number of lavish, extraordinary costumes in this production is just mindboggling.
Jam-packed with toe-tapping, imaginative and clever choreography (Tom Jackson Greaves) that spans a multitude of different genres seamlessly.
Packed with poignant messages about the importance of acceptance, Priscilla Queen of the Desert is powerful, genuinely funny, and the ultimate feel good musical spectacle.
Reviewed by Rosie Bambury
