From his days as a Blue Peter presenter in the Eighties and the spin-off TV series Duncan Dares, Peter was always up for the task whether that meant crossing the Irish Sea in a VW Beetle or training with the Royal Marine Commandos.
While his latest role is less fraught with danger, Peter admits that playing Bob the mechanic in a new UK tour of the hit musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert isn’t without its own challenges.
“You do wonder what is going on in Bob’s head and I love that as an actor,” said Peter. “He is enigmatic and perhaps a little confused by what is happening around him but he follows his instincts.”
Priscilla Queen of the Desert, based on the 1994 Oscar-winning film, sees two drag queens and a transgender woman travelling through the Australian outback to perform a show in Alice Springs. They face prejudice and problems along the way which merely strengthens the bond between them.
Peter Duncan in Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Picture: Matt Crockett)
The musical promises to be spectacular with costumes designed by Vicky Gill, Strictly Come Dancing’s wardrobe queen and choreography by Olivier Award-winner Matt Cole.
Starring alongside Peter are Adèle Anderson from the comedy group Fascinating Aida as Bernadette, former Strictly favourite Kevin Clifton as Tick/Mitzi and Nick Hayes as Felicia/Adam.
“As we’ve been in rehearsal for the show the thing I’ve come to realise that although it is a proper, big musical with some fabulous songs in it and spectacular dance routines, it has a heart,” said Peter.
“It tells the stories of the lives of people who may be seen to be somewhat on the fringes of society, They are all characters who capture your heartstrings which is the best way to tell a story.”
Although the original film was released more than 30 years ago, the themes are extremely relevant today.
“I think in 1994 the film could barely get made because prejudice was so great,” said Peter. “The world has changed a lot over the years although you could argue that sadly it’s heading back in that direction.
“But the world in general has always been more tolerant than those with extreme views would have us believe. And this show helps to show that people really can get on in life with each other.”
Peter hopes that this new version of the musical – it will head across the UK after opening in Manchester – will surprise audiences.
“There has been an element of making it all a bit more real,” he said. “Yes it has these fantastically glamorous costumes and show-stopping routines but I think people will find it a little bit more down-to-earth too. The spectacle is very much still there but as with all great storytelling you’ll get caught out and suddenly find you have tears welling in your eye and it’s too late to back out of it.”
Opening the show in Manchester has brought back a particular memory for Peter.
“I was looking through some stuff recently and I found a very nice review for when I starred in Barnum at the Palace,” he said. “The main thing I remember about that show was that I did a death slide all the way from the top balcony down on to the stage – it was a long way up. I won’t be doing anything like that this time round!”
Peter has had a remarkable career spanning TV, film and the stage.
“I’ve always had an adventurous nature,” he said. “I’ve gone from thing to thing over the years. It’s quite simple really, when something comes along you either go ‘yes’ or ‘no’ and I’ve trusted my instincts. I like to do something new.”
Priscilla will see Peter touring the country for the next six months which is something he had to think seriously about.
Kevin Clifton, Adele Anderson and Nick Hayes in Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Picture Matt Crockett)
“I’d just moved from London after living there for 40 years to the countryside when I got this job,” he said. “I’d chosen a different lifestyle and then had a decision to make; did I want to to be on tour for six months?
“But I like the idea of going back to these big cities where I’ve been before. Then there’s the camaraderie you get while on tour; everyone does look out for one another. Plus it’s only six months – I can go back to being a country boy when it’s all over.”
Given that Peter has done so much in his career, what else does he have on his ‘to do’ list.
“During the pandemic I started making a pantomime film in my back garden,” he said. “It was just a simple idea as the theatres were forced to close but it became a proper film and was released and well received.
“I’ve always made documentaries and told stories on film which is something I’d like to do more of in future.
“While I’m on tour I plan to spend time writing a couple of screenplays based on two books I’d love to do. All I need is that meeting with Netflix!
“But although I’m 71 I’m still pretty fit and hopefully there’s plenty of time to do quite a lot of things, including this wonderful show. I’m a lucky old man really!”
Priscilla Queen of the Desert is at the Palace Theatre Manchester until Saturday, February 28. Details from www.atgtickets.com