Priscilla, Queen of the Desert - The Musical

Hot, hot, hot is the only way to describe this show! Based on the 1994 cult classic film, this musical is a jukebox joyride and a surprisingly tender road story. We are introduced to two drag queens and a trans woman who, for reasons that later become apparent, trek across the Australian desert to perform at a small-town holiday resort. Their mode of travel is an old unreliable bus christened Priscilla, and as the trio travel towards their destination, the laughs come thick and fast.

However, their travel is two-tracked because as they traverse the desert, they also each move towards an understanding of who they are and, more importantly, who they want to be. Each of the three characters has their own story to tell, and potentially uncomfortable issues such as homophobia, transphobia and other prejudices are tackled head on, making the show a celebration of individual identities and diversity and, at times, a painful journey towards self-acceptance.

The energetic and enthusiastic ensemble were amazing in their support of the three principals – Adele Anderson (Bernadette) is probably better known as one third of the group Fascinating Aida, whilst Kevin Clifton (Tick /Mitzi) of Strictly Come Dancing fame continues to showcase his many talents, having previously taken the part of Hugo / Loco Chanelle in Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, as well as playing the pantomime villain in Aladdin. Nick Hayes took the part of Felicia /Adam. Their undeniable on-stage chemistry enabled some hilarious one-liners to be thrown into the mix, all of which were appreciated by the audience. All three bring to their roles a wealth of talent and experience, and boy, does it show!

The three divas were brilliant in their sparkly dresses and wigs. On stage for much of the evening belting out the familiar songs for the queens to lip sync along to was yet another nod to the art of drag itself.

Similarly, the director, Ian Talbot, and his creative team have much of which to be proud. The set design by Andrew Exeter was simple, and whilst the physical manoeuvrings of Priscilla the bus appeared laboured at times, this was more than compensated for by the sheer exuberance of the cast whose costumes, designed by Vicky Gill, were wonderfully flamboyant and most definitely camp.

The live band led by the musical director Richard Atkinson ensured that the pace of the performance never faltered and the familiar hits from the 80s and 90s were belted out with great gusto.

Whilst the show will never be one of my favourites, I can appreciate that this production is a heartfelt celebration of the power of love, of friendship and unity, and of being unashamedly yourself and embracing others for who they are.



Sheffield Lyceum until 4th July