Priscilla Queen of the Desert

This was a show that certainly had the wow factor sustained from start to finish. After months of restrictions imposed because of the pandemic, Willenhall Musical Theatre Company took its excited audience on a whirlwind tour through the Australian outback with upbeat songs from the 70’s,80’s and 90’s. This show rocked the packed audience with direction that was both insightful and creative; harnessing a party atmosphere delivered by very talented performers. Alf Rai, the director, played a significant role in securing a fabulous show from the opening, it had high energy, pace, professionalism and good humour. This was a musical that was packed with brilliant songs performed by an amazing cast to a very high standard. This was a production with extraordinary costumes, without a sequin out of place, that offered escapism, great acting, and wonderful singing. This glittering production jettisoned joy across the auditorium.

The dancers were well rehearsed, the choreography, by Lindsey Vickers, ensuring dance numbers were delivered energetically by the talented ensemble filled with flair and fun; with faultless dance moves performed nimbly and flawlessly by members of the cast in high heels.

The glitzy, sparkly, psychedelic costumes were out of this world and so vibrant. The human cupcakes and paint brushes were amazing, the wigs elaborate and oversized.

This was a story of a trio of characters, drag queens travelling across Australia in an unreliable multi coloured,’ light show’, bus, christened Priscilla, to perform a drag show at a resort in Alice Springs in the remote Australian desert. These drag queens met several characters as well as incidents of homophobia, while finding themselves and growing close to each other.

The leading roles included Tick, projected by the very gifted singer, Daniel Haddon. He was amazing in role and so fluent and convincing. We learn early in the story that Tick had been asked by his estranged wife, Marion, played by Rachel Chadwick to travel to Alice Springs, who explains that part of the reason is to give a drag performance because their 8-year-old son, Benji, played by George Coulter, wants to meet his dad.

Tick invites Felicia, played by the naturally multi-talented, very funny Will Phipps who captivated the audience with his flawless performance in high heels. He was magnificent in his delivery.

They are joined by a transgender woman named Bernadette played by the outstanding performer, Dom Napier who has immense stage presence, a rich voice and perfect timing.

An honourable mention needs to be given to the 3 divas; three exceptional singers, Lindsey Vickers, Kelly Ashman and Abbie Wild, who provided the backing group and musical narration, offering their powerfully perfect voices to the drag queens’ numbers and helping to move the story on.

Other notable creditworthy character portrayals to be congratulated include George Coulter,for his touching, gentle performance as Tick’s son, Benji, which I found quite moving when he was with his Dad; and to Abbi Sellick who delivered an entertaining, racy, clever performance to’ Pop Muzik,’ as Cynthia.

James Collins played very ably the mechanic, Bob, adopting a suitably relaxed, friendly approach with a convincing Australian accent.

Commendations also to Rachel Chadwick as Marion; Cal as the Aussie Tour Guide. James Totney was a dazzling sensation as Miss Understanding as she danced effortlessly in high heels and Nikki Rai as Shirley, was hilarious, maintaining our focus and attention from the minute she swept onto the scene.

The music from four decades connected the story superbly and captivated the audience under the masterful, sharp focused direction of Musical Director, Rob Murray. The audience fully appreciated audibly the quality sound from the musical band and the voice harmonies from the singers, further enhancing the entertainment value of the show.

This was a show where the cast and crew had clearly worked very hard to bring to this theatre a vibrant, colourful show which had generous doses of glamour and excitement and much needed fun. The audience were on their feet for a standing ovation, for this show effectively lifted our souls, raised smiles, and sent people home happy, probably humming, the theme tune,” I will survive!”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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