★★★★ Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical: The Timeless Classic Rolls into Sheffield

Photography by Johan Persson

Some stories never lose their sparkle. More than three decades after The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert became a cult classic, its message of acceptance and friendship still shines brightly. The musical adaptation, now at the Lyceum, is a joyous celebration of the iconic film, pride and the transformative art of drag, delivered with plenty of glitter, glamour and feel-good disco hits.

Kevin Clifton leads this cast as Tick/Mitzi, alongside Adele Anderson’s warm and witty Bernadette and Nick Hayes’ energetic and mischievous Felicia/Adam. The trio have fantastic chemistry and genuinely feel like lifelong friends on their journey across the Australian outback. It was a true celebration of the film, reenacting iconic scenes and incorporating great music to carry the story along. 

There were a few technical issues on opening night, but the cast handled them brilliantly and never let the energy drop. This is a company clearly having the time of their lives on stage, and the enthusiasm is infectious. 

Vicky Gill’s costumes are absolutely stunning, while Matt Cole’s choreography keeps the show moving at a relentless pace. Add in a soundtrack packed with hits including “It’s Raining Men”, “Hot Stuff”, “I Say a Little Prayer” and “What’s Love Got to Do with It”, and it’s hard to leave the theatre without a smile on your face. 

A special mention has to go to the three Divas – Leah Vassell, Bernadette Bangura and Jessie May whose powerhouse vocals carry the story and keep the momentum going throughout. Their presence on stage adds another layer to the storytelling and proves to be one of the production’s strongest creative choices.

Yes, it’s camp, cheesy and completely over the top at times – but that’s exactly what Priscilla should be. Underneath the sequins and disco anthems is a beautiful message about friendship, acceptance and being unapologetically yourself.

Priscilla is at the Lyceum until Saturday 4th July. Tickets can still be purchased at the Sheffield Theatres website here.