PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT #YASSQUEEN
Josh Clarke has big shoes to fill. Towering stilettos and hefty platforms sewn into fluorescent spandex flares.
He’s stepping into a role made iconic by Guy Pearce in the 1994 cult classic film and reiterated time and again for the stage. It’s the 18-year-old’s first lead role, playing Adam/Felicia in the New Plymouth Operatic Society’s Priscilla Queen of the Desert. It’s a bold and sassy show and Adam/Felicia is a bold and sassy drag queen. But Josh isn’t daunted, he’s excited to bring something fresh to the role, and a little of himself.
“Adam’s really similar to how I was a few years ago. He makes jokes and tries to lighten situations, he wears a mask to hide himself, because he’s scared that he won’t be accepted,” Josh says.
“But he shows his vulnerability at some points during the show and the audience gets to see that.”It’s a role he almost didn’t audition for, unsure he could pull off the flamboyant femininity or Aussie twang. However, come casting call he decided to give it a go, figuring if he missed out, he could still land a spot in the ensemble.
“Stephen Robertson, the director, got up on stage and did the line with me, which is something he never does. I looked him in the eye and pushed him across the stage with my finger on his chest. The only thing that got me the role was my acting. My singing was very, very average but I was confident in the acting.”
Josh credits his passion to a handful of mentors and Ms. Phillips’ theatre sports at Devon Intermediate.
“We did Stage Rock in front of a full house at the Showplace. I fell in love with the hype and adrenalin and the nervousness. I did the school play the next year, and then everything I could get my hands on.”
The young thespian has already got a few credits to his name including parts in Wheeler’s Luck, Annie Jr., Sister Act, Mary Poppins and the Christmas special Boogie Wonderland. And he’s studied with some leading names in the global theatre scene. Josh auditioned and won a one-on-one session with two-time Tony nominee Jonathan Groff (Mindhunter) at last year’s Christchurch International Musical Theatre Summer School.
It’s those experiences that he wants more of; hands on training with the best in the business. He will take to the Showplace stage alongside seasoned performers Cameron Douglas and Isaac Pawson, who will reprise the roles of Bernadette and Tick/Mitzi. Josh welcomes the pressure, it’ll push him to be better, and he’s aiming to be great. The dream is Hollywood, following in the footsteps of kiwi KJ Apa, who got his big break in Netflix’s Riverdale and now stars in a slew of Hollywood pictures.
“Once you’ve found what you know you’re meant to do and what you love, there’s no point not putting 100 percent into it.”
For now, he’s focused on putting 100 percent into Priscilla, rehearsing over 10 hours a week – practising the accent and perfecting the footwork. There are feathers, sequins, leotards and epic headpieces made of flowers. The costumes, direct from the West End, are at times revealing but Josh says once he’s in character the crazy will feel natural.
He’s also confident the nerves won't kick in until opening night, and when they do, he’ll calm himself down by putting things into perspective.
“It’s not about me, it’s about the audience. We’re telling a story and getting them excited. Films, TV and theatre give audiences a chance to escape reality for two and a half hours and to leave the theatre feeling inspired or having learned something.”
Audiences are guaranteed to leave the theatre feeling excited and thoroughly entertained.
Words by Jenna Houghton
5 REASONS TO SEE PRISCILLA LIVE IN THE FLESH
Classic Throwback
Priscilla Queen of the Desert is one of the most iconic movies of the nineties. This little Australian film became a worldwide smash hit that inspired millions of people to embrace their inner fabulousness. We all love a good throwback, and what better way to reminisce than to see “a cock in a frock on a rock” live on stage. It’s just as sassy, just as fun, and has even more sparkle than ever before!
Perfect night out
Grab your gals, get dolled up, and sink a few cocktails because Priscilla is the ultimate FABULOUS night out. It’s pure fun and it will leave you wanting to shake your groove thing! It’s also perfectly acceptable to wear as many sequins as you possibly can to this show. There’ll be a dazzling array of more than 500 award-winning costumes on the stage, so don’t be afraid to shine like the star you are.
The music
This musical comedy is packed with chart topping songs that we all know the words to. The soundtrack is basically made up of feel-good party anthems, like I Will Survive, It’s Raining Men, and of course Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. These hits have lasted because they are fun and, trust us, the lads singing them know just how to belt out the high notes - and the high heels!
Support local talent
More than 200 talented people from around Taranaki have come together to bring this hit show to life, and they’ve done a dazzling job. We’re all bound to know someone involved in Priscilla, whether that be your barista, your banker, or even your neighbour’s second cousin twice removed. You might even get to see them dancing their life away in fishnets, heels and a revealing little number.
Party bus
Priscilla is basically one big party! There’s great music, awesome dancing, stunning costumes, and even a couple of mid-party deep and meaningfuls. Priscilla will be the talk of the town for weeks, so spare yourself the FOMO, and make sure you’re on the bus for the party of the year!