Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Last night marked the spectacular opening of Andover Musical Theatre Company’s production of “Priscilla: Queen of The Desert” at the Lights theatre, and what a dazzling ride it was! From the moment the curtain rose to the final bow, the audience was treated to a theatrical experience that was nothing short of fabulous.
The show boasted a sold-out crowd, and it was evident why from the very beginning. The cast of Andover Musical Theatre Company delivered stellar performances across the board. The chemistry between the actors was palpable, and their enthusiasm radiated through the entire theatre. Each character was brought to life with such authenticity and flair, making it easy for the audience to connect with the story.
The energy of the performance was infectious, and the audience was taken on an emotional rollercoaster. From uproarious laughter to poignant moments that tugged at the heartstrings, the show masterfully navigated a range of emotions. The musical score, flawlessly executed by the talented orchestra, added another layer to the production, enhancing the overall experience for everyone in attendance.
The Lights theatre provided an excellent backdrop for the production, with its intimate setting allowing the audience to feel fully immersed in the world of “Priscilla.” The lighting and set design were expertly crafted, creating a visually stunning atmosphere that complemented the vibrant performances on stage.
A standout performance came from Eddie Nias, whose portrayal of Bernadette was nothing short of incredible. Nias brought depth and emotion to the character, creating a memorable and poignant presence on stage. Paul Marsh did Tick proud, showcasing a range of emotions that added layers to the character. Seb Blake’s take on Adam added a dynamic chemistry to the trio that was both entertaining and heartwarming. Special mention must be given to Jaysha Crankshaw, whose comedic brilliance as Cynthia added a delightful touch to the production.
The Divas, played and sung by Louise Ellison, Laura Bean, and Rachel Fitzgerald, held the tone of the show impeccably, delivering performances that were nothing short of amazing. Ryan Boath’s portrayal of Bob was outstanding, adding a heartfelt touch to the narrative.
The set, a star in its own right, was a masterpiece crafted by Eddie Nias himself. Nias shared, “With the challenge of a small theatre with difficult access, narrow doors and hallways, no wing space and a limited budget, hiring a set in for our production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert was simply not an option for us, so I embarked on a journey to build our very own bus.”
Over 600 hours went into constructing their ‘Priscilla,’ designed and built completely from scratch. Nias explained the challenges of creating a bus with limited resources and space, saying, “Priscilla is a sizable lady, and needs room to breathe, so we took the bold decision to not have any fixed set for this musical.” This decision gave the production more freedom to move and rearrange the elements of the set, providing a dynamic backdrop for every scene.
And, in a touch of humour, Nias concluded, “We love our colourful, glittery and flamboyantly crazy version of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert and hope you do too… do you know anyone that wants to buy a bus? Low mileage, one careful owner!”
Andover Musical Theatre Company’s production of “Priscilla: Queen of The Desert” is not just a show; it’s a celebration of creativity, passion, and sheer dedication. The cast, crew, and the unforgettable bus itself have created an experience that will resonate with audiences for years to come. Don’t miss the chance to hop on board this glittering extravaganza! Congratulations to everyone involved for a truly spectacular performance. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
