It’s worth a trip to Richmond Theatre to see this revival of Shelagh Delaney’s classic play, says Richard Davies...
OUR VERDICT
Glitter, glam and Australian sunshine: what could be better on a drizzly October evening? The 1994 film Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is a cult classic, and its take on bigotry and friendship still feels fresh today. This big-hearted musical adaptation may lose some of the original’s depth and darkness, but it makes up for it with lashings of be-sequined charm.
Floundering drag queen Tick has been absent from his son’s life for 6 years, terrified that he’ll prove a disappointment. But when his wife invites him home to perform a show, he’s powerless to resist. He sets off on a journey Down Under in the company of old hand Bernadette and sassy Felicia. Travelling in Priscilla, a rickety old tour bus, they experience homophobia, hatred, and unexpected kindness. Can these three drag queens put aside their differences in time for the big show?
Of the three lead actors, Strictly Star Joe McFadden as Tick is perhaps the weakest. Although his is the story at the centre of this glittering spectacle, he’s rarely the character who holds our attention. Perhaps this is because he’s a less accomplished drag queen than his two co-stars; he’s stronger in the quieter scenes, especially those shared with his son.
Western is a dignified and upright Bernadette, responding to transphobes and bigots with deliciously chilly hauteur. Hayes is absolutely brilliant as Felicia – an immensely watchable dancer and singer, as well as an absurdly convincing lip-syncer. The leads are supported by a stellar ensemble cast who often comes close to (collectively) stealing the show, dancing and singing with immense energy. I was exhausted just watching them.
Just as you’d expect from a musical about drag, this production is a feast for the eyes. Practically every scene boasts a brand new selection of rainbow-hued costumes: think feathers, sequins and scene-stealing wigs. The costume changes are executed at whiplash speed – no sooner has the entire cast skipped off stage as cowboys than they re-enter stage right dressed as glittering baked goods. With the costumes doing the talking, the set can afford to be fairly simple – although Priscilla herself is cleverly evoked.
Musically, the production is on top form. A trio of talented divas (Aisha Pease, Claudia Kariuk and Rosie Glossop) lead the cast in energetic renditions of feel-good classics, from ‘It’s Raining Men’ to ‘I Will Survive’. It would be a cold-hearted viewer indeed who could resist the urge to tap a toe.
Big-hearted, glitzy and tons of fun, this cult classic Aussie export is the perfect cold-weather treat.
Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical is at the New Wimbledon Theatre Mon 7 Oct 2019 - Sat 12 Oct 2019. (book here)
