Bristol Hippodrome – until 2 October 2021
Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock
5*****
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is back on the road for another trip around the UK, and what a trip it is too!!
We follow Tick played by Edwin Ray, Adam played by Nick Hayes and Bernadette played by Miles Western as the travel the outback of Australia to meet Tick’s son for the first time. All 3 of these main characters were played exquisitely-with such gusto and energy that you couldn’t help but smile along. Accompanied by the smooth tones of Claudia Kariuki, Aiesha Pease and Glossop, the singing will blow you away-their voices are so perfectly matched that the harmonies are delicious.
This is a perfectly cast show and Miles Western was a joy to behold. He truly embodies the female characteristics and conveyed such resilience but vulnerability effortlessly; together with Edwin Ray and Nick Hayes, this is a stunning trio. Edwin Ray excelled with his vocal agility, gliding through the songs and really pouring his all into his performance. Nick Hayes also has stunning vocals-he was able to make the audience laugh during his songs with the tiniest nuances, it was a joy! No show is complete without an ensemble and this is the most diverse ensemble I have ever seen. Actors of all shapes, sizes and ethnicities really bring home the true message of the show-to be yourself and have fun with it. I couldn’t help but start to dance every time there was a full cast number, particularly during ‘Go West’ as the energy onstage was electric!
The outlandish costumes, technical brilliance and faultless orchestrations led by Richard Atkinson created the perfect feel good performance.
So, strap in possums, Priscilla is waiting to take you on a journey-wigs not included!!