Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, The Musical

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, The Musical makes its west of the black stump premiere with this big, bright and bold production from Platinum Entertainment at Crown Theatre. Gorgeously slick, with outstanding production values, this is a show worthy of a national tour.

As acknowledged in the program, this is a 15-year-old musical that is loyal to a 1994 film, and contains language and prejudices that already seem dated - but it remains a wonderful celebration of difference and diversity, while this diverse and enthusiastic team embrace this production with energy and enthusiasm that is tangible.

Much of the success of this production should be credited to the choice, direction and performances of the three leading characters. Drag superstar Cougar Morrison’s theatrical debut as central character Tick/Mitzi is simply stunning in a beautifully sung, emotionally layered performance. While it is the first time Cougar has ventured onto the stage, alter ego Clint Strindberg was an outstanding theatrical performer and it is wonderful to see this talent back, bigger and better than ever - I hope that we see more of ‘both’ these entertainers.

Drawcard performer Peter Rowsthorn delivers a touching and moving performance as the motherly but smart-mouthed, transgender woman Bernadette. Delivering the expert comic timing we expect from this expert comedian, this is also a deep and tender portrayal and possibly Rowsthorn’s best stage role to date.

Nick Mayer makes a loveable but infuriating Adam/Felicia in a very impressive performance.
Platinum Entertainment favourite Dean Misdale opens the show with pizazz, as Miss Understanding setting the tone for the show, before joining the team of divas, whose lovely voices and presence are an almost dream-like presence throughout. Great work also from Kelsey Skinner, Morgan Cowling and Ruby Voss. Luke Hewitt is strong as rough-round-the-edges with a heart-of-gold Bob.

This show also features a plethora of smaller roles that were embraced by the performers and given their all. Melissa Gall was lovely as Tick’s ex-wife Marion, Janelle Koenig embraced her inner bogan and delivered great laughs as Shirley, Mita del Mar delivered on obvious audience expectations as Cynthia, and indigenous performers Joel Davis and Samuel Pilot were deserved audience favourites as Jimmy and Mike. Tick’s son Benji was played with genuine feeling by Logan Bin Baker on opening night (audiences may see Angus Roberts, Felix Steinwandel or Jimmy Jurjevich).

One of the busiest ensembles you’ll see play a myriad of cameos and make numerous appearances - no putting their feet up in this show. The choreography, by Una Genuino, is dynamic and particularly well executed.

Musical director Daniel Griffin has nurtured some great voices and leads an impressive very full sounding 8 piece band.

Costumes, co-ordinated by Cherie Hewson and Katrina Patient, are stunning, and numerous - with lots of great surprises - definitely living up to the high expectations set by the movie. The set is dominated by title character, Priscilla the bus, who is used to great effect, converting to a variety of locales - and is given life and colour from superb visual effects by Rory Henderson and strong lighting choices from Brock Preston.

The Opening Night audience gave Priscilla, Queen of the Desert the most enthusiastic standing ovation that I have seen at Crown. Partly this is local pride, but this is also a top-notch production that would be considered excellent in any sphere.

Kimberley Shaw