Priscilla Queen of the Desert, The Bohemians Lyric Opera Company Review
Written by Jacqueline for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
This week Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre is full of sparkle and joy as the Bohemians’ production of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert takes to the stage. The Bohemians are one of Scotland’s longest running amateur theatre companies, bringing multiple productions to the stage each year. Priscilla is the unforgettable story of an iconic road trip across Australia in a battered old school bus, where a trio of drag queens embrace their own journeys of self love and self discovery.
Priscilla: Queen of the Desert is based on the 1994 cult classic movie, and the subsequent stage adaptation has been thrilling audiences for almost 20 years. Priscilla is a jukebox musical consisting of iconic pop masterpieces, from Gloria Gaynor to Kylie Minogue and everything in between- including an aria from La Traviata. There is truly something for everyone, and it’s hard to watch any of the performances without a smile on your face.
The story begins when Tick (Greg McCafferty-Thomson) is offered a show in Alice Springs- a far cry from his life in Sydney. He convinces his friends Bernadette (Graeme Melvin) and Adam (Dean McAvoy) to come with him, and the trio hop aboard their battered old school bus. However, the journey is far from straightforward as the trio encounters breakdowns, conflict, and a whole host of new experiences. Some of the scenes of prejudice are hard to watch but are still incredibly prevalent in today’s society, and I appreciate that the show does not shy away from portraying the violence and homophobia in both large cities and small towns. Our three leads had a brilliant dynamic between them. I particularly enjoyed how Bernadette and Adam’s relationship progressed from exasperation and catfights to a mutual understanding of their generational differences.
Having said that, it is important to note that in this production the character of Bernadette, a trans woman, is portrayed by a man. This is not a comment on that performer’s talent and skill- his performance was excellent. However, I do wish that the show had cast Bernadette’s role more accurately to showcase one of the many talented trans performers in Edinburgh.
The set and costume design in the production would not look out of place in a professionally produced UK tour. Though the Festival Theatre boasts a sizeable stage, the set was designed in a way that meant the stage didn’t feel empty, and the company made full use of the stage. The ensemble are at the very heart of this production and they bring impeccable energy as they light up the stage during the numerous dance numbers. A particular mention must go to Rosie Sugrue, Felicity Thomas and Emily-Jane Lister the three formidable Divas who serve incredible vocals and even more attitude. They stole every scene they were a part of, and left the audience wanting even more.
If you’re a fan of shows such as The Rocky Horror Show or Kinky Boots, Priscilla: Queen of the Desert is definitely the show for you. It’s a glitzy and feel-good celebration of love and community and will leave you with a smile on your face.
★ ★ ★ ★
