Priscilla has it all

Choreographer and director Dean McKerras (front) gives a sample of the choreography to participants at the pre-audition dance workshop of MTG’s upcoming production of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert —The Musical. Picture by Kim Parkinson

Aspiring musical theatre performers had a chance to strut their stuff on Tuesday night at a dance workshop ahead of auditions for Priscilla Queen of the Desert — The Musical.

Director and choreographer Dean McKerras was in town to take the workshop and taught a short routine to give participants a taste of things to come. McKerras has worked with Musical Theatre Gisborne in the past as director and choreographer of the popular production of Mamma Mia in 2019 and Chicago in 2023.

He said the choreography wouldn’t be too challenging for Priscilla due to the limitations of the elaborate costumes in the show.

But everything would depend on the experience of the cast.

The musical is based on the 1994 movie The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of The Desert starring Guy Pearce, Hugo Weaving and Terence Stamp, about two drag performers and a transgender woman who travel across the Australian desert to perform their unique style of cabaret. It is full of comedy, colour and great music with a moving story at its heart.

MTG is on the hunt for some talented locals who are not afraid to don a frock and a pair of heels to bring the three lead roles to life. There is also a large ensemble cast required to sing and dance up a storm and make this a memorable stage show extravaganza.

MTG president Peter Grealish and a number of the committee members went to see the musical in Napier last year and said it was extremely funny with incredible costumes.

“We know Gisborne can do just as well and encourage people to audition for what will be a fantastic show with great music and lots of laughs.”

There will be a screening of The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of The Desert the movie at 6.30pm this Friday at the MTG clubrooms in Innes Street. People are invited to come along and remember what made the movie such a hit. It is bound to generate some excitement around bringing the musical version to the stage.

Register interest in auditioning by going to the MTG website or using this link https://forms.office.com/r/zHRTba14dq

The movie night is free but numbers are limited so RSVP to secure a spot. RSVP to kelly@musicaltheatregisborne.nz