Asian tour for Priscilla in the works

MANILA, Philippines - Resorts World Manila’s (RWM) production of the international stage musical hit Priscilla, Queen of the Desert runs in Manila until July 13 only but it looks to continue its spectacular streak in other Asian cities in the near future.

That was the good news shared by the producer of the original Sydney production himself, Garry McQuinn. McQuinn, who has been involved in every production of Priscilla since its start in Sydney eight years ago, is optimistic that RWM’s production will soon be playing to audiences in other cities.

“It was a wonderful production in every area,” said McQuinn. “The performances were very strong. We have now had 15 different productions of Priscilla and without exception, this cast was amongst the best I have seen. I have always known that Philippine actors, singers and dancers are world-class.”

McQuinn, who flew to Manila for the premiere last May 9, was quick to enter into talks with RWM’s chief entertainment officer Colin Kerr to take the production abroad. “We’re in discussion with Colin and the Resorts World Manila team to take this wonderful production to other Asian destinations. It’s likely that this company and this production will be seen in other world capitals,” said McQuinn.

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is a musical dramedy about two drag queens and a transsexual who go on a cross-country trip for a cabaret gig in a resort town in the remote Australian desert. On board their “budget Barbie camper” named Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, the trio experiences mishaps, meets strange characters and learns more about one another in the outrageously funny show.

“The Philippine production of Priscilla is absolutely unique — literally so, because it was the first time anywhere in the world that we have allowed an entirely new production that was not based on the original,” explained McQuinn. “For me, it was a chance to see a new interpretation of the Priscilla story, and we were very lucky that our partners in Manila were so enthusiastic and supportive.”  

Priscilla has enjoyed a successful run internationally in Sydney, London and New York to name just a few key cities. McQuinn attributes this success to Priscilla not only being a theatrical show with colorful costumes, great music and exceptional performances, but also because it tells a story that audiences can understand and relate to.

“We may have many things in common with the characters Bernadette, Tick and Felicia,” says McQuinn. “The importance of friendship and family, the search for love, the need to repair the mistakes in our lives and the journey to reconciliation and happiness. The context is unique and interesting because they make this journey personally and literally in a bus in the Australian desert.” 

(For details, visit www.rwmanila.com or call the Tourist/Visitor Hotline at [639] 908-8833.)