Review – Priscilla, Queen of the Desert the Musical – Royal Hippodrome Theatre, Eastbourne

Eastbourne Operatic and Dramatic Society’s production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical is an absolute joy from start to finish—a dazzling, high-energy celebration of music, friendship, and unapologetic self-expression. From the moment the curtain rises, the audience is swept into a vibrant world bursting with colour, charisma, and infectious enthusiasm.

The evening gets off to a brilliantly cheeky start with Miss Understanding, played by Oscar Smith. This “naughty but fun” opening act immediately establishes the show’s playful tone, delivering plenty of laughs while confidently setting the stage for everything that follows. Smith commands attention with ease, bringing both sharp comic timing and bold characterisation that win the audience over within moments. It’s a lively and memorable introduction that perfectly captures the spirit of the show.

At the heart of the production are its three leads, and this is where the show truly shines. Christian McDonald as Tick brings a thoughtful and grounded quality to the role, portraying the character’s emotional journey with sincerity and warmth. Paul Webb as Bernadette is effortlessly elegant, combining dry wit with genuine depth to create a performance that is both funny and moving. Adam Bunting-Smith as Adam delivers boundless energy and fearless flair, lighting up the stage with charisma and a wonderfully mischievous edge. Together, they form a trio with natural chemistry, making their friendship feel authentic and engaging throughout.

Visually, the production is a feast for the eyes. The costumes are bold, glittering, and wonderfully inventive, each one adding to the show’s sense of fun and extravagance. The iconic bus is cleverly realised, serving as a central feature that enhances the storytelling while also providing a multi-functioning background to the action.

Musically, the show is a non-stop celebration. Performed to high-quality backing tracks, the familiar disco anthems and pop favourites still pack a punch, giving the cast plenty of room to shine vocally. The whole cast are full of energy and confidence, and the audience participation is a huge part of the fun—clapping, singing along, and fully embracing the party atmosphere. This shared sense of enjoyment creates a real connection between performers and audience, making each number feel like a collective celebration.

The choreography, by Naomi Wareham, adds another layer of excitement, with dynamic routines that range from slick ensemble numbers to high-energy dance breaks. The ensemble’s enthusiasm is infectious, and their commitment ensures that every scene feels lively and engaging.

Beneath all the sparkle, the show carries an important message about acceptance, identity, and being true to yourself. Eastbourne Operatic and Dramatic Society handles these themes with care, allowing the emotional moments to resonate while maintaining the show’s uplifting tone.

With strong direction (from Gareth Brighton), smooth pacing, and a clear sense of vision, the production moves seamlessly between comedy, spectacle, and heartfelt storytelling. Audience reactions throughout—laughter, applause, and sheer delight—highlight just how well it all comes together.

In the end, this production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical is uplifting, entertaining, and full of heart. Eastbourne Operatic and Dramatic Society has created a vibrant, feel-good show that leaves audiences smiling long after the final curtain.

*****   Five Stars