Gold Coast musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert hunts for star

A major new musical production coming to the Star Gold Coast is on the hunt for a young male star to play a key role in the stage show.

PRISCILLA Queen of the Desert The Musical is on the hunt for a nine to 11-year-old Gold Coast boy to play the role of Benji, on whom the production hinges.

Based on the iconic 1990s Australian film, the story follows a group of eccentric personalities on a journey from Sydney’s Kings Cross into the outback when Benji’s dad, Tick, is invited to meet his son for the first time his son’s memory.

Presenter Matt Ward describes the role as emotionally charged. He says he’s looking for a “triple threat” – an actor, singer and dancer – up to the challenge.

Matt Ward Entertainment's Matt Ward, who is putting on Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical at The Star Gold Coast is searching for a young Gold Coast male to play the role of Benji.

“As a local production company here on the Gold Coast, we’re super confident we’re going to find the right actor,” Mr Ward said. “We see the local talent at our performing arts and dance schools, and we see the high calibre of boys here.

“The right actor is someone that can bring the right sentiment to the role, understand what it’s like to be Benji and carry those emotional scenes with his dad.”

Priscilla producer Matt Ward: “The right actor is someone that can bring the right sentiment to the role, understand what it’s like to be Benji and carry those emotional scenes with his dad.” Pictures: Matt Ward Entertainment

The Gold Coast production of the decades-old story, opening mid-July at the Star, is also the first time a transgender woman will play the role of Bernadette, a transgender character historically played by a man.

“The story is one of overcoming the challenges of being perceived as different,” Mr Ward said. “It’s a story of acceptance, and the concerns Tick has as a drag performer that his son won’t accept him.

“You’ll laugh and cry at Priscilla, you will definitely in Benji’s scenes.”

Apply at priscillathemusical.com.au/auditions.