Priscilla Queen of the Desert

This was the Director’s debut and it was a huge show to cut your teeth on.  Connor did a fabulous job, really bringing out the tongue in cheek humour whilst staying true to the more poignant moments. He explained that everything on the stage had been hand made by the company. Literally hundreds, if not thousands, of hours had been spent making the set, bus, props, costumes and headdresses. And they were spectacular. The stage was constantly filled with extravagantly colourful costumes and hats – the paintbrush and cake costumes were particular favourites.  Priscilla, the battered old bus, had been carefully designed in sections so it could be manoeuvred on the small stage and positioned according to the requirements of each scene. All of this was framed by some beautifully painted flats depicting indigenous Australian artwork.

The stage crew did a sterling job managing the set changes with a quiet efficiency. The fact that they too had costumes made the transition between scenes even more seamless.

The talented ensemble treated us to a jukebox of dance-floor hits which were well rehearsed and executed with high energy and enthusiasm throughout.    It is always difficult to choreograph for a mixed ability group, but the choreographer did a great job in getting the best out of everyone.

The three leads were very strong. Tick/ Mitzi was a well-rounded character and had a very believable Australian accent throughout. He had a lovely rapport with his son, Benji, and effortlessly transitioned between Tick and Mitzi, giving each a distinct character.

Adam/Felicia was suitably outrageous and I really enjoyed their expert lip synching to the opera aria whilst standing on top of the bus. He/she was a good mover and sang well too.

Bernadette, the proud matriarch, was particularly strong vocally and had a very classy ‘old school’ look. The actor pitched the softer side of this character perfectly but showed her feistier side too. Together with Mitsi and Felicia the three leading characters blended well in their musical numbers, complimented each other in their scenes and danced up a storm. None of the pacey comedy and sharp one-liners were missed as they encountered and endured all manner of unexpected obstacles and experiences along their journey through the Australian outback.  Very well done by all three.

Benji proved to be not only a great actor and singer, but a fabulous dancer in the finale. He even sported high heels and still danced with confidence and ease. A very talented young performer.

The three Divas sang well and created a cohesive unit. They had some lovely costumes and their movement was well rehearsed and slick.

Another highlight in the show was Cynthia, performing her special ‘talent’ to Pop Musik. She oozed confidence and gave an energetic and hilarious performance.

There was some great characterisation from supporting roles, with Bob, Marion and Shirley all taking the opportunity to shine in their scenes.

The large cast performed enthusiastically and with commitment and were obviously enjoying themselves. The audience loved the show, clapping and singing along throughout and giving the cast a well-deserved standing ovation as the curtain came down. Everyone fully embraced the camp with pink and glitter everywhere. Once again, this was a real team effort by the company and the joy both on and off the stage was evident to see. Many congratulations on another fabulous show.

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