I Will Survive, Don’t Leave Me This Way, It’s Raining Men...all classic disco songs that feature in the hilarious, heartwarming musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Making sure every dance step, arm flick and hip thrust is right on the button is the responsibility of James Young, who is dance captain for the production.
“The cast are doing a great job,” says James. “They’ve picked up the routines really well. Now I’m being extra picky to make sure they look amazing!”
Headshot of James Young
James is very passionate about Priscilla, Queen of Desert, the story of a Sydney-based performing trio who drive a ramshackle bus across the Australian outback to Alice Springs, finding love, hostility and a few surprises along the way.
“Yes, the show is fun, colourful and a great night out, but it’s also a story of friendship, acceptance and getting through tough times.”
James has been dancing since he was seven, starting with tap and moving onto modern, jazz and ballet. He got his BTEC National Diploma in Performing Acts at Queen Mary’s College and now works with young children as a room leader in a preschool.
As well as dance captain, James is also dancing in the show. He says Priscilla is a great release from a stressful job. “Yes - and what I’m most looking forward is the band call, when all the musicians come together for the first time. You’ve been working in rehearsal for so long with just a keyboard, you can forget just how amazing these songs are! It takes the show to another level, then once you add the amazing costumes, this show is just going to be spectacular!”
Priscilla runs at the Haymarket, Basingstoke from Wed 14 – Sat 17 and Wed 21 – Sat 24 November. Performances at 7.30pm with Saturday matinees at 2.30pm on 17 and 24 Nov.
All tickets for the opening night are £18.50. For the other performances: £23.50 (adults) £15 (16s and under) - with concessions for students, over-65s and groups. All prices include a booking fee. Buy tickets online.