A Friend of Dorothy: Anthems of Pride
Making its world premiere at the Adelaide Fringe 2025, A Friend of Dorothy: Anthems of Pride is a vibrant homage to resilience, fabulousness, and the enduring power of music. In his long-awaited solo cabaret debut, Lindsay Prodea invites audiences to Plant 4 Bowden for an hour of soul-stirring songs and heartfelt storytelling. This nostalgic evening honors queer anthems that have transcended generations, transforming struggles into the soundtracks of liberation and pride. With the support of the Mental Health Commissioner for South Australia, there will a post-show Q&A on the March 1 at 5:00pm on the Mezzanine at Plant 4 Bowden, to help connect attendees with local queer support networks and community groups.
A Friend of Dorothy: Anthems of Pride is your solo debut, tell us about the show?
Well, I’ve been doing theatre for over twenty years here in Adelaide and thought it was finally time to create a show with a theme very close to my heart; queer icons and their music! I really wanted to explore how artists (LGBTQIA+ identifying or not) and their music influenced queer culture at the time. I cover a broad range of eras too – from the Golden Age classics of the 50’s & 60’s, through the Disco Revolution in the 70’s, and the timeless hits still played at any twenty-first party today!
What is so special about the music of artists like Madonna, Judy Garland, Elton John, Lady Gaga amongst others that resonates with audiences?
Their musical catalogues are so special because they pushed the boundary and broke down barriers, which is what also makes songs like Vogue, I’m Still Standing, and Born This Way still so nostalgic today! Take Gaga and Madonna for instance; both performed in Moscow, Russia in 2012, and both defied gag orders to not talk about LGBTQIA+ rights during their shows. It’s the advocacy that’s woven through their music that resonates with audiences so well, and creates a legacy.
They have really made their mark in society and helped make changes to promote inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ communities.
What is it about them and their music that resonates for you?
I also explore music from other artists like Kate Bush and David Bowie, who weren’t afraid to be authentically themselves and a little out of the box. I guess their individuality gave us permission to do the same! Even closer to home, with Troye Sivan, his Blue Neighbourhood musical trilogy really spoke to me after I’d come out. Seeing your lived experience reflected in music is so important!
Which song is your favourite to sing in the show?
That’s such a hard question! It’s not really one song, but with almost thirty plus artists in the show, there may be a camp medley of anthems I love somewhere in the show…😉
You have a four-piece band joining you, what can audiences expect from your show?
And they’re a fantastic four-piece band too! Audiences can expect colourful storytelling, a joyous homage to the hits we all know and love, and plenty of fabulousness!
We’re playing at Plant 4 Bowden, so make sure to get there early and pick up a delicious bite to eat from the laneway and a drink (served in a glass!), while you enjoy the air conditioning and an entertaining show!
Describe your show in three words.
Celebration. Nostalgic. Camp!
Interview by Anastasia Lambis
Shows Sat 1st Mar, 3.30pm | Sat 8th Mar, 5.45pm | Sun 16th Mar, 7.00pm – tickets from FringeTix…