Bradford Alhambra – until 21 September 2019
Reviewed by Sally Richmond
5*****
Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a wonderful fiesta of glitz, gloss and gaudy glamorous fun that makes your brain explode with colourful chaos! Strictly star, Joe McFadden, who plays Mitzi / Tick and the shows other two dazzling divas, Miles Western (Bernadette) and Nick Hayes (Felicia / Adam) bring the Australian outback to Bradford but not in the way you’d expect to see it – because this bush is studded with diamonds and pearls!
The show opens with a highly energetic performance delivered with great gusto and pizzazz which sets the pace for the whole musical – that being a non-stop hit parade of disco favourites. Innuendo loaded with acid-tongued jibes, Priscilla Queen of the Desert breaks all taboos and crosses the boundaries of sex, gender and age in a light and hilarious way.
The story unfolds in an area of Oz that is dominated by red-necked white Australians, who collide with our flamboyant female impersonators in various bars and clubs. This quirky trio take us on an outrageous journey of rollicking recklessness that is laced with wit but also challenges views and stereotypes – all done dressed in satin and sequins – what’s not to love? Flawless performances are given by each of the gang and are brilliantly bright and lewd but also tender and heart-warming – just at the right moment. The plot is given intrigue by each character having their own mission to face: Mitzi to explore a family secret, Bernadette to mourn the loss of her husband and Felicia to find adventure and fun!
The other spectacular trio of queens (backed by a fabulous ensemble) in this musical were Rosie Glossop, Claudia Kariuki and Aiesha Pease who gave spellbinding and spine tingling vocal performances throughout the show. They got the audience singing and dancing along immediately and hit all the right notes, in all of the right places, and all at the right times! Kudos must also be given to the amazing band, directed by Sean Green, brilliant choreography by Tom Jackson Greaves and it was all excellently directed by Ian Talbot.
If you want an evening of pure escapism – to have some unbounded frivolous fun – then go and see this musical because it really will make you feel like you’ve just been to the best party in town!