Port Douglas performers, including several who helped bring Priscilla, Queen of the Desert: The Musical to life at the Clink Theatre are back in the spotlight, joining a 30-strong cast for the Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) season. 

The Cairns Choral Society’s season opener kicks off on 16 January with nine nights of glitter, disco, and the outback adventures of three drag performers.

Returning from the Clink production are Port Douglas locals Angela Whittaker and Jenn Kerr as the Divas, along with Narelle Spencer, Nathan Kerr, and Dwayne Pierce. 

Angela Whittaker, one of the powerhouse trio providing live vocals throughout the show, said bringing regional performers onto a stage like CPAC is something they’re all proud of.

“Returning to Priscilla after three years is honestly surreal, it feels like coming home, but stepping onto a much bigger stage,” she said.

“Cairns Performing Arts Centre elevates the entire experience and revisiting the show with more confidence and a deeper connection to the material has been amazing.

The Cairns production features a full live band under Musical Director Jo-Anne Kemp, along with a dazzling wardrobe of custom-designed sequins, feathers, and Australiana-inspired outfits.

“Singing with a live orchestra gives me goosebumps,” Angela said. 

“There’s nothing like feeling the energy lift when the music kicks in and seeing people smile, laugh, and sometimes even cry.”

“The show is pure joy, and being part of something that makes people feel seen and celebrated is very special.