The 1994 classic Australian film written and directed by Stephan Elliott, based on the book by Allan Scott, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, has hit the stage at QPAC until the 4th of November. You may have seen the posters, the adverts, the branding, but do you know what you’re in for? Because this is a performance that must be seen to be believed.
The Priscilla Queen of the Desert musical was many things, it was a spectacle filled with drama, love, passion and and a wicked sense of humour that leaves a sassy sting. The visuals were astounding and director Simon Phillips's production was well paced and ran smoothly. The efforts toward production design and the bus interior were in very good hands with Brian Thomson’s expertise. The costumes, handled by Tim Chappel and Lizzy Gardiner, were extravagant and represented each character to their core. The choreography, taken care of by Andrew Hallsworth and Ross Coleman, was inventive and in-tune to the artistic elements involved, complimenting the costumes, and made watching the performance an absolute delight. Impressive lighting work by Nick Schleiper and sound design by Michael Waters, as well as musical arrangements by Stephen 'Spud' Murphy, were spot-on, creating an experience unlike any other.
Not only were the cast fun, fresh and fabulous, but each character delivered an unique aspect to the story. David Harris (Tick) offered the perspective of a married man with a child, who just so happens to be in the entertainment industry and perform as a drag queen. Euan Doidge (Felicia) gave a spice and electricity to the show through his unashamed expression of his sexuality whilst Tony Sheldon (Bernadette) offered a wise and humbling perspective of a transsexual that joins Tick, and eventually Felicia, on a journey like no other.
Memorable moments included hits such as It’s Raining Men, Hot Stuff, I Will Survive and of course, Finally. The costume, choreography, set design, lighting, sound and performances of all cast members created spectacular moments on stage. There were clever transitions that occurred between settings and an inventive use of space and props. One of the stand-out production design aspects included the bus, spinning 360 degrees to show the exterior and interior, as well as showing road signs moving across the stage to indicate distance crossed by the trio.
Every choreographed movement made by the main performers as well as the background dancers was lively and characteristic of the environment they were in. There were no dull moments. Each performer on stage contributed to giving an authentic representation as well as a genuine look inside an Australian outback culture that hasn't seen anything like Tick, Felicia and Bernadette combined.
One of my favourite moments would have to be in the Hot Stuff sequence, where a group of men in long jackets were surrounding Felicia, and flicking their jackets repeatedly behind them, creating suspense and giving a pulse to the scene. It was a great example of how each and every performer is creating a moment in time, and the attention to detail, including these very same men crotch-grabbing as they lusted over Felicia, a highly effective and engaging performance.
There were many memorable moments, and I simply can't give them all away, as you might just have to watch it for yourself. As I sat, sorry, stood up, as it was a standing ovation, I realised my smile hadn't once left my face as I watched the entirety of the show, and realised that Priscilla Queen of the Desert had done the job it had set out to do.
26th Sept - 4th Nov
QPAC, Lyric Theatre
By: Joanna Letic