Interview: Richard Grieve

Actor Richard Grieve discusses playing a transexual in Priscilla Queen of the Desert: The Musical, coming to the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells this May and how he began  his acting career in Sydney, Australia.

How did you start out as an actor? 

I finished high school, then decided to go to the National Theatre Drama School in Sydney to study theatre. Then when I graduated I went in to the Sydney theatre circuit. So I’ve been doing it for about 24 years now, and you know... I’m still alive [he laughs]

Did anything in particular draw you to Priscilla Queen of the Dessert?

Well it’s just such an iconic piece, as well as having an Australian connection. Obviously it was made famous by the film and when they discussed turning it into a musical I felt I had to be involved. Initially I was asked to play the role of Tick, with Jason Donovan playing Bernadette but when he left they asked if I would take on that role instead.

How is playing Bernadette different to playing Tick?

It’s completely different, providing a whole other angle on the story for me. Bernadette is a post-op transexual whereas the other characters are drag queens. This does provide some challenges in that I spend the whole production in high heels with a wig and corset [he laughs], which becomes quite a physical challenge; restricting your movements. 

Do you have a favourite moment in the musical?

I don’t want to give too much away but I particularly enjoy performing the song ‘McArthur Park’. 

What would you like to do after Priscilla?

I have been involved in musical theatre for quite some time, so I would like to explore more traditional theatre. Perhaps something classical by Noel Coward or even Shakespeare. 

Priscilla: Queen of the Desert is playing in the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells from Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May. For more information and to book tickets visit:www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

[Originally published by Vine Magazine]