Regent Theatre, Melbourne
January 30, 2018

Who among the opening night audience of this much-loved musical didn’t know what to expect? Between Stephan Elliott’s 1994 film, and the musical adaptation that began touring the nation, then the world (134 cities and counting), a decade ago, Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a landmark in contemporary Australian culture. So there were few surprises for all but that handful of Priscilla virgins, but much to delight and even tug at the heart in this colourful, energetic musical that celebrates difference, friendship and having a fabulous time.

David Harris, Tony Sheldon and Euan Doidge during dress rehearsals for Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical at Regent Theatre on January 25, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Sam Tabone/WireImage)

The drag queens travelling from Sydney to Alice Springs on a bus called Priscilla are perfectly cast. As Tick, who is making the journey to meet his son for the first time, and also make peace with who he is, David Harris is the grounded centre of the trio. The production’s original Bernadette, Tony Sheldon, reveals the grace, a nicely timed wit and endearingly ordinary voice of this...