Priscilla is back! If you've seen the film and enjoyed the musical, now you can experience the party. The story is unchanged. Three Australian drag queens set out to do a show in Alice Springs. On their odyssey through the outback, there's some unsurprising prejudice, some unanticipated openness, unexpected secrets and an unforeseen love story. In this version the tale is narrated by the raucous and ribald Gaye Cliché (Trevor Ashley) who proves to be a tour guide par excellence. But this evening isn't really about story-telling. The aim is to immerse the audience in the wonderfully over-the-top world of our three sojourners, and the show succeeds with flying colours. It has an irresistible sing-along, sway-along score including classics like "It's Raining Men," "Go West," and "Born This Way." Set and scenery designers Brian Thomson and Justin Nardella have imaginatively used the space and video designs to create a wonderfully effervescent disco atmosphere, and Tim Chappel and Lizzy Gardiner's costumes are simply stunning. After each number, one is left wondering how they will manage to surpass their latest extravaganza. Full marks also to Director Simon Phillips who keeps it all moving and never lets the pace flag. As Tick/Mitzi who initiates this venture into terra incognita, Owain Williams puts in a strong performance, as do Reece Kerridge as the impulsive Adam/Felicia and Dakota Starr as the hesitant Bernadette. Priscilla The Party! definitely delivers on its party promise. The puns and innuendos keep flying faster and faster, the production numbers become glitzier and glitzier and the girls' hair just gets bigger and bigger.
Rated: ★★★★
Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Marc Brenner
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