Priscilla Queen Of The Desert At Birmingham Hippodrome Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Sheridan Brown
It might officially be spring – but we’re still in the grip of dark nights, chilly winds and lack-lustre sunlight. So, who wouldn’t want to surround themselves, on a March evening, with Aussie Outback heat, brilliant sunshine, and all the glitz and glamour anyone could ask for? And, when I was invited to be part of the audience for the opening night of Priscilla Queen of the Desert at Birmingham Hippodrome, I jumped at the chance.
This brand new 30th anniversary production of the show promises to be a dazzling extravaganza, packed with iconic soundtracks from the 80s and 90s – so I couldn’t wait to throw myself into the groove!
Directed by Olivier award nominee Ian Talbot OBE, and based on the iconic 1994 film, the production tells the story of three friends on a road-trip across the Australian Outback to stage ‘the show of a lifetime’ in Alice Springs. Travelling on their infamous, but unreliable bus ‘Priscilla’ the three encounter prejudice and heart-warming support in equal measure. On their journey, each of them discovers something new about themselves – and get to know each other just that little bit better. What starts as a trio of three mis-matched drag queens becomes a collective of allies who have each other’s backs.
As always, Birmingham Hippodrome gave us a very warm welcome – it was the perfect venue for such a spectacular. As we settled in our seats, glass of wine in hand, we took in the stage. A projection of a large hot-pink depiction of a glitter-ball vibrated to a range of fabulous music tracks. With the volume cranked up, we knew we were in for a party. As the rest of the audience took their seats, there was a loud buzz of anticipation in the auditorium. It was clear everyone was here to enjoy themselves and embrace the full-throttle explosion of glitz, glamour and gorgeousness that was to come.
The show burst onto the stage with an opening number that was guaranteed to get the audience in the mood. An explosive medley of disco classics – deployed with high energy and sass – set the tone for the show. A trio of stunning onstage Divas (Leah Vassell, Bernadette Bangura and Jessie May) provided powerful live vocals – and began as they meant to go on – delivering in-your-face fierceness and charisma from the off. The ensemble wowed us from the start with a fabulous routine including high-kicks to make your eyes water! It was clear the audience were being invited to join in and sing along – furthering the party-like feel to the production. Accompanying the Divas and Ensemble was an amazing live band, directed by Richard Atkinson. They created a massive sound for only seven individuals. Throughout the show, a well-placed jukebox of original soundtracks intersected the live music, creating a full-on, non-stop, high-energy vibe for the entire show.
But the show isn’t just a 2-hour long party. The narrative and characters come together beautifully to create a story that is as much about heart as it is about glamour. Thrown together by chance and necessity our three main characters Tick/Mitzi (Kevin Clifton), Bernadette (Adèle Anderson) and Felicia/Adam (Nick Hayes) don’t always see eye to eye. The tensions between them – delivered in a hilarious series of one-liner insults – had the audience roaring with laughter. Yet, there is also an emotional warmth in Tick and Bernadette’s relationship that counters the anarchic energy brought by Ferlesha’s comedic, often bawdy (and sometimes self-destructive) antics. And Tick’s journey towards reconciliation with his family lends the story it’s heart. The chemistry between the three performers was wonderful – and made for an authentic and believable experience. Not only is their acting chemistry powerful, but the way their voices worked together was really lovely – both in the big numbers and the more introspective pieces – such as ‘True Colours’. We were also impressed by the contribution of Blue Peter’s Peter Duncan who played two very different roles with aplomb. His rendition of Bob was well considered, and provided a gentle grounding to some of the more over-the-top excesses of the show.
Yes, the show is excessive – it’s unapologetically so – but visually, it is a triumph! The spectacular costumes, designed by BAFTA-winner Vicky Gill, constantly escalate in extravagance and sheer audacity – a parade of feathers, heels and out-of-this world headpieces. The wigs, hair pieces and make-up were astonishing – and such quick changes to boot. Craig Forrest-Thomas should be applauded for their design. Together with the slick choreography (Matt Cole), fabulous set and lighting design (Andrew Exeter) we were treated to a visual spectacular from beginning to end.
Ultimately, this 30th anniversary production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a joyous spectacular. It manages to balance fierce, fabulous glamour and bawdy humour with a heartfelt message of self-acceptance, individuality and resilience.
As the show came to a close with a wild rendition of a big-hearted medley ‘Finally’ the audience jumped to its feet dancing and clapping and roaring their appreciation. The noise was overwhelming and captured our joy and appreciation. It was fabulous, darling!
Rating: 5/5
Dates: Tuesday 24th March – Saturday 28th March 2026
Tickets: £26 – £85
Age guidance 14+
Remaining shows are bookable here.