Janis Sims visits the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford for a night of daft camp fun in a colourful extravaganza that celebrates the difference and diversity of a group of drag queens.
On entering the foyer, extravagant costumes are already on show to offer a flavour of what’s in store. Priscilla, directed by Simon Phillips, very much lives up to the anticipation which precedes it. The florescent pink map of Australia, drawn on the curtain and a six-foot lipstick centre stage, sets the scene for touring Priscilla, the drag queens’ travelling bus.
The pace and tempo is incredibly upbeat and energetic, from the beginning until the final song. Jason Donovan as Tick, offers an exuberant performance and his comedic skill is juxtaposed with the tender side of his character. When he sings with Theo Hill, who charmingly plays his son Benji, the result is quite mesmerising and moving too.
Simon Green plays Bernadette the proud transsexual woman, who does not overstate his role but cleverly draws us into the tough yet sensitive side to his character. Adam Bailey as Felicio is a highly-skilled performer who effortlessly dances and sings to the echoes of camp queen Kylie. He brings a relentless energy which moves the show into a frenzy of excitement.
Cross-dressing is taken to another level when the show within the show gives way to a rapid costume-changing extravaganza. In pure Las Vegas style these are show stopper creations which are quite breath-taking. In keeping with the Australian theme the use of Ostrich heads, large emu wings and kangaroo costumes are remarkably outrageous.
The three voices which magically glide down from swings above are phenomenal with choreography superbly managed as the use of every part of the stage allows this show to flex its big production muscles to the height of their strengths; and the lighting adds to the drama and colour on stage.
Better than you could possibly anticipate, this show is packed full of glamour, sparkle, pride and packs a punch at homophobia with its celebration of difference and diversity.
Reviewed by Janis Sims on 12 October, Alhambra Theatre, Bradford and touring till 30 January 2016 see Priscilla the Musical on tour.