Writer and artist Susie Corcoran has lifted the curtain on her latest creation, Priscilla Queen of the Disaster, a heartwarming and hilarious show that gives an unfiltered glimpse into the reality of motherhood.
Based on her own experiences, Susie’s work is an honest take on the highs and lows of being a parent, far removed from the curated perfection we so often see online.
“Priscilla is my story about motherhood, but not the idealised version,” says Susie. “It’s about the best bits, the worst bits, the struggles, the guilt, the pressure, and the joy. It’s comedy, but it’s also real and raw – showing how isolating and life-changing motherhood can be. It’s something you’re never fully prepared for.”
The show, filled with humour and poignant moments, has been designed to resonate with a wide audience. While mothers and parents may see themselves reflected in the narrative, anyone who has faced significant life changes will find connection in Susie’s words.
Susie explains, “This is a story about overcoming obstacles and recognising the ridiculousness of life. There’s a sense of relief when you realise you’re not alone, that other people are facing similar challenges. I want the audience to laugh and cry, to feel less isolated by the end of it.”
The inspiration for Priscilla Queen of the Disaster came from a very personal place. “When I became a mother, I noticed that people online shared their experiences – but none of them seemed to align with what I was going through. I loved my children deeply and was incredibly grateful for them, but I also struggled, and nobody was talking about that side of it. I started writing for myself, then it became a blog, and eventually, with some encouragement from colleagues in the theatre, it grew into this show.”
For Susie, laughter is the best way to process the challenges of parenthood. “I’ve always found that humour helps me cope with the difficulties. Sharing those absurd moments makes the struggle feel more manageable, and that’s the message I want to convey – that it’s OK to find things hard, and it’s OK to laugh about it.”
When asked about her favourite part of the show, Susie doesn’t hesitate. “It’s the connection. Sharing the ups and downs of parenthood opens the door for others to do the same. After the show, I love chatting with people, hearing their stories, and learning how the performance has resonated with them. That sense of connection is something really special.”
Following each performance, Susie holds a post-show discussion where audiences can ask questions and share their own experiences. “There are some heavier themes in the show, especially around mental health, and the discussion gives people a space to process what they’ve seen. I’m there to listen, to talk through it, and, if needed, to point people towards further support.”
As for the show’s central message, Susie sums it up simply: “You are enough. You always have been. Parenting is hard – it’s relentless – but you’re not alone. We’re all just trying our best, and that’s more than good enough. Finding the humour in it all is key, and it connects us to each other.”
Priscilla Queen of the Disaster is playing at Swindon Arts Centre on 14th September with tickets available online.
