News: Adèle Anderson to Star in Joyous Hit Musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert at Newcastle Theatre Royal

 Adèle Anderson to Star in Joyous Hit Musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert at Newcastle Theatre Royal

Cabaret legend Adèle Anderson takes on the iconic role of Bernadette as the glitter-filled musical returns to the UK stage.

The sparkling, high-octane musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert rolls into Newcastle Theatre Royal from Monday 6 to Saturday 11 April 2026, with the inimitable Adèle Anderson leading the cast as the elegant and fiery Bernadette.

A beloved member of the acclaimed satirical cabaret trio Fascinating Aïda since 1984, Anderson brings a rich blend of wit, warmth and world-class vocal ability to the role. Her career has spanned over four decades, earning accolades including three Olivier Award nominations. With stage credits ranging from She Loves Me at Sheffield Crucible to Closer to Heaven at Above The Stag, Anderson is no stranger to commanding the spotlight – and audiences are in for a treat.

Adele Anderson 

Speaking about her role, Anderson said: “Bernadette is a warm, witty, caring and compassionate character, whom audiences will love... In the current climate it is vital that people see this character as a human being who is secure in herself, who loves, laughs and cries and, most importantly, earns respect.”

Directed by Olivier Award nominee Ian Talbot OBE, and choreographed by Matt Cole (Olivier Award winner for Disney’s Newsies), the production promises a visually stunning and emotionally resonant journey across the Australian Outback. The creative team also includes designer Andrew Exeter, whose striking set and lighting work will help bring this story to vivid life.

A Cult Classic With Heart

Based on the Oscar-winning 1994 film of the same name, Priscilla Queen of the Desert first hit the stage in Sydney in 2006 before taking the West End by storm in 2009, followed by Broadway in 2011. With its jukebox of disco classics — from It’s Raining Men and I Will Survive to Girls Just Wanna Have Fun — the musical has become a modern theatre favourite.

Yet beneath the glitter and glamour lies a poignant tale of friendship, identity and acceptance. The story follows three drag performers – Tick, Adam, and Bernadette – as they traverse the Australian desert in their battered bus, “Priscilla,” to deliver a show in a remote town. Along the way, they encounter prejudice, face personal demons, and ultimately celebrate the power of authenticity and community.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert is more than just a feel-good musical — it’s a joyful, defiant celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and resilience, brought to life through dazzling costumes, powerhouse vocals, and an unforgettable soundtrack.

Tickets:

Tickets for Priscilla Queen of the Desert at Newcastle Theatre Royal are on sale now at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or via the Box Office on 0191 232 7010.