Priscilla dazzles with a non-stop, feel-good show

Naomi MacKay climbed aboard as Priscilla Queen of the Desert rolled into Aylesbury at the Waterside Theatre, running until Saturday 8 May.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a vibrant, feel-good spectacle that fully embraces its message of love, acceptance, and unapologetic individuality. Packed with non-stop dazzling visuals, iconic music, and heartfelt storytelling, this show proves to be far more than just a glitter-filled party – it’s a journey with emotional weight.

In the show (based on the 1994 Australian film starring Guy Pearce, Terrence Stamp and Hugo Weaving) we follow Tick, a drag perfomer who is offered a gig in Alice Springs in central Australia, at a resort run by his wife. He takes with him Adam – an obnoxiously extrovert drag artist whose alter-ego is called Felicia, and Bernadette an older, transgender woman who has just lost her young husband.

They pack up their costumes, cocktails – and all their emotional baggage in a worn-out old bus, christened Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. As they travel across Australia, they meet prejudice, hate, and acceptance, along with Bob the mechanic, played warmly by Blue Peter’s Peter Duncan, who joins them on their travels.

Kevin Clifton (Strictly), plays Tick, and offers an engaging performance of a drag performer who is struggling with his day job and trying to be a dad to the son he’s only just met. He has a sincerity that allows the character’s more vulnerable moments to land effectively – and reveals a beautiful voice to match his dancing talents.

The supporting cast play an equally vital role in bringing the production to life. Fascinating Aida’s Adèle Anderson offers a standout performance as Bernadette, delivering dry wit and emotional depth in equal measure. Her portrayal captures both the elegance and resilience of the character, providing some of the evening’s most touching moments. And it seems apt in 2026, that this role is finally taken on by a trans woman. Meanwhile, Nick Hayes playing Felicia injects the show with boundless energy and mischief, acting as a perfect foil to Clifton’s more grounded presence and Anderson’s world-weary grace.

The ensemble deserves significant praise for their relentless energy and versatility. Not only do they support the principal cast, but they also transform the stage with a series of rapid costume changes and tightly choreographed routines. Their commitment ensures the show never loses momentum, maintaining a sense of excitement from start to finish. The trio of Divas, who provide the live soundtrack from their elevated platform, deliver consistently strong vocals that elevate every musical number.

Visually, the production is nothing short of spectacular. The costumes are outrageously inventive, featuring everything from sparkling jumpsuits to elaborate, larger-than-life headdresses. Each design contributes to the show’s identity as a celebration of excess and creativity. The set design, particularly the iconic bus, is cleverly executed and becomes a central visual motif throughout the journey. Combined with dynamic lighting, it creates a constantly shifting landscape that keeps the audience visually engaged.

Musically, the show thrives on its collection of disco and pop anthems. Classics such as I Will Survive, Hot Stuff, and It’s Raining Men are performed with infectious enthusiasm. The choreography is slick and energetic, adding to the overall sense of joy.

Ultimately, this touring production succeeds because it pairs spectacle with sincerity. Beneath the glitter and glamour lies a story about identity, acceptance, and chosen family that resonates deeply.

And you are guaranteed to have an absolute (glitter)ball!

For tickets visit atgtickets.com/Aylesbury*

*Booking fees apply

Photo credit: Johan Persson