Priscilla, Queen of the Desert – Theatre Royal Brighton and National Tour

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert Is a Glittering, Feel-Good Night of Pure Entertainment

There are some shows that send audiences out of the theatre smiling, and then there are shows like Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, which have people leaving with a spring in their step, humming the songs and talking excitedly about their favourite moments all the way home. The current UK tour is a wonderfully uplifting production packed with laughter, heart, dazzling costumes and an irresistible soundtrack that makes for a truly memorable night out.

At the centre of the story are three friends, two gay men and a transexual woman, who set off on an extraordinary journey across Australia aboard the iconic bus, Priscilla. What unfolds is a adventure that is, at times, incredibly touching and poignant, but also often hilarious. A well crafted tale of friendship, self-discovery and acceptance, told with warmth, humour and plenty of sparkle.

The success of this production rests heavily on its leading performers, and they rise to the occasion magnificently. Kevin Clifton, playing Tick/Mitzi brings a real charm and emotional depth to the role, capturing both the character’s vulnerabilities and determination with sincerity. As well as his superb dance skills he also showcases a tremendous voice that has both power and depth.

Meanwhile, Bernadette, played to perfection by Dakota Starr (standing in for the indisposed Adele Anderson) is portrayed with elegance, wit and tremendous heart, creating some of the evening’s most moving moments. Completing the trio is Nick Hayes, taking on the role Adam/Felicia, who delivers a wonderfully energetic and mischievous performance, injecting the show with humour, confidence, infectious enthusiasm and bucketloads of sex appeal.

Together, the three leads share superb chemistry. Their friendship feels completely believable, and it is this connection that gives the production its emotional core. Whether they are exchanging bitchy one-liners, supporting each other through difficult moments or leading the audience through the show’s spectacular musical numbers, they remain engaging and likeable throughout. Special mention should also go to Peter Duncan who delivers a solid performance as Bob the mechanic, Billie Hardy who plays Tick’s wife, Marion, and Finley Christian as Tick’s son, Benji.

Visually, the show is an absolute delight. Costume designer, Vicky Gill, deserves enormous praise for creating a seemingly endless collection of outrageous, colourful and inventive outfits. Each new scene brings another surprise, and the audience’s delighted reactions become almost as entertaining as the costumes themselves. Combined with vibrant lighting and imaginative staging, the production creates a world bursting with energy and personality.

Of course, Priscilla would not be Priscilla without its soundtrack, and this production delivers hit after hit with style and confidence. Packed with beloved disco and pop classics like ‘It’s Raining Men’, ‘I Will Survive’ and ‘Hot Stuff’, the show quickly transforms the theatre into a giant celebration. The vocals are consistently excellent, with the cast bringing power, character and plenty of fun to every number. From the outset, many audience members are already clapping along in their seats.

The ensemble also deserves special recognition. Their energy never dips, and the choreography is performed with impressive precision and enthusiasm. The large production numbers are particularly effective, filling the stage with colour, movement and excitement. Every member of the company contributes to the joyous atmosphere that makes the show such a pleasure to watch.

What makes Priscilla, Queen of the Desert endure, however, is that beneath all the glitter lies a genuinely touching story. Themes of acceptance, identity and friendship are woven naturally into the narrative, giving the audience characters they can care about as well as spectacular entertainment. The show never loses sight of its emotional heart, even during its most extravagant moments. This production strikes exactly the right balance between spectacle and substance. It is funny without being frivolous, emotional without becoming sentimental and celebratory without ever feeling overblown. Most importantly, it radiates warmth and positivity from start to finish.

As the curtain call arrives and the audience rises to its feet, it is impossible not to be swept along by the show’s infectious sense of joy. This is musical theatre at its most welcoming and uplifting. Colourful, heartfelt and brilliantly performed, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is a fabulous evening of entertainment that leaves audiences smiling long after the curtain falls.

*****   Five Stars