Priscilla Queen of the Desert sparkles at Mayflower Theatre

Priscilla Queen of the Desert has arrived at Mayflower Theatre this week, promising a spectacle you won't want to miss.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the sparkling musical adaptation of the iconic 1994 film returns with a fresh tour that’s both nostalgic and reinvigorated. Audiences are swept into the adventure of three friends embarking on a road trip across the Australian Outback, a tale that’s as hilarious as it is moving, packed with warmth, resilience, and the celebration of individuality. 

Kevin Clifton is a star in Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Image: Johan Persson)

Kevin Clifton dazzles as Tick, the disillusioned drag queen whose journey to reconnect with his son forms the emotional core of the story. While fans might expect his signature dance moves from Strictly Come Dancing, Clifton surprises with his powerful vocals and heartfelt performance, cementing his status as a true triple threat. 

Joining him is Nick Adams as Felicia, whose razor-sharp wit and cheeky charm keep the audience laughing throughout.

Completing the trio, Adèle Anderson brings gravitas and sophistication to Bernadette, the seasoned cabaret star, grounding the show with elegance and warmth. 

Friendship is at the heart of Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical (Image: Johan Persson)

Peter Duncan, familiar to many from Blue Peter in the 1980s, joins as Bob, the outback mechanic who lends a steadying hand (and a spanner) to our trio. Duncan’s performance is quietly affecting, offering a comforting presence amid the on-stage fabulous chaos. 

Yet, beneath the glitter and infectious musical numbers - including Girl’s Just Wanna Have Fun and Hot Stuff – there’s an honest reflection on the prejudice still faced by the queer community. The production doesn’t shy away from tackling themes of homophobia, transphobia, and discrimination, infusing the narrative with moments that are both poignant and thought-provoking. 

There are slight disappointments, the much-anticipated operatic scene atop the bus falls a bit flat compared to its cinematic counterpart, feeling somewhat misplaced in this touring version. But what the show lacks in spectacle, it more than compensates with its fabulous costumes. Expect everything from singing cherry cakes to extravagant feathers, with constant costume changes injecting even more vibrancy into the performance. 

Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical (Image: Johan Persson)

Ultimately, it’s the infectious energy and genuine friendship at the heart of Priscilla that keeps audiences coming back after three decades. The chemistry between the leads is the show’s real magic, outshining even the most extravagant sequins and set pieces. 

By the time ‘I Will Survive’ rings out for the curtain call, the entire theatre was on its feet. And the standing ovation was completely deserved. It’s impossible not to leave uplifted by this gloriously heart-warming show. 

Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical is at Mayflower Theatre until March 21. Tickets can be purchased online at mayflower.org.uk