Priscilla Queen of the Desert – The Musical – Sheffield Lyceum

The Sheffield Lyceum Theatre basked in the 80s/90’s disco glitter ball disco hits as Priscilla Queen of the Desert – the Musical drove into town. With more sequined glamour and glitz than a red carpet event the audience went wild and this full throttle jukebox musical hit all the right notes with unadulterated pizzazz. Based on the Motion Picture, Stephen Elliott and Allan Scott’s adaptation does a stellar job in retaining its heart-warming story of acceptance, queer identity and family.  The 13 years since its premier has seen Drag become a mainstay and accepted part of our culture not just in theatre but on prime time TV and Media. But, Priscilla, the trailblazer adds the Trans community central and upfront – no hiding – with the character of Bernadette which is written with sincerity but also humour, a juxtaposition of high merit. Directed by Ian Talbot with all the depth and diversity needed, the musical arrangements by Stephen ‘Spud’ Murphy are perfectly pulsating under the Musical direction of Richard Atkinson with his 8 piece band. With hit after hit of disco anthems it is however, Matt Cole’s choreography that steals the high octave show with its dynamic and frenzied creations of mirth with meaning. The set does however seem to have shaved its corners here and there, gone is the ‘shoe’ and the bus seems less ‘spectacle’ than it was – a cost cutting exercise I assume, as is the times with touring productions. But the costumes; as is essential; remain splendid and Vicky Gill work as Costume Designer is showcase beautifully in Andrew Exeter’s Lighting Design.

The energy from the cast is infectious and with the disco ball a turning the excitement in the theatre is electric. The large cast work very hard in this show and the amount of lightening quick costume changes is awe inspiring at times. Led by a very strong cast with Kevin Clifton in the emotive role of Tick/Mitzi we are transported to the highs and lows of life in society as a gay/transsexual performer with the segregation that is faced daily and the longing for acceptance. The bus itself mirrors the journey with breakdowns and isolated vista but with a continued movement forward to the scary but dream destination. Tick is to meet his son in 8 days for the first time in Alice Springs and his two companions Bernadette and Felicia/Adam are all aboard for the roller coaster emotional ride laced with one line wit.

It is Adele Anderson who takes on the classy transsexual role of Bernadette, the aging performer who inspired a generation of ‘lip – syncers’. Anderson gives this role a classy approach, with a strong vocal and some very heart felt moments. Nick Hayes is outstanding as Felica, acting, singing, dancing… and posing in abundance – Hayes excels at it all, watch out for ‘Venus’! The Greek chorus of 3 Divas Leah Vassell, Bernadette Bangura and Jessie May strut their stuff and give the audience a vocal masterclass in belt and harmony! Peter Duncan as Bob is the calming effect on the production as a lovely contrast with his down to earth and honest delivery. Watch out for Isabella Glanzing Santos in her role as Cynthia, ‘Pop Muzik’ is extremely funny (no spoilers). James Wolstenholme sets the opening scene was aplomb as Miss Understanding and Jak Allen-Anderson as Farrah and Young Bernadette is exceptional, a real scene stealer with legs that stretch for miles and dance moves and attitude you can only wonder at.

My favourite number from this production was a wonderful example of the power of human nature as Tick (Kevin Clifton) sings Elvis Presley’s ‘You Were Always on my Mind’ on the request of his son Benji played very well on the night I was in the audience by Forrest Mahjouri. No glitz or glam just an empty stage, a pure heart and a beautiful moment between the two, it brought a tear to my eye. 

This well written and poignant production Priscilla Queen of the Desert leaves you smiling but also ‘educated’. It leaves you elated and hopeful but most importantly it restores hope in humanity and deference in difference. At the Sheffield Lyceum Theatre until Saturday 4^th July before it continues on its UK tour. Catch it if you can, a window to the underlying ‘True colours’ of life on society’s fringes, amidst the frenzied backdrop of persona and public face. Highly recommended!

Reviewer: Tracey Bell

Reviewed: 29th June 2026

North West End UK Rating: