Who is John Cameron Mitchell?
One part Joan Cameron, my vivacious Scottish artist mum, one part Major General John Mitchell, my kind-hearted closet case Dad, and one part me, punk rock intellectual theatre geek.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Maybe take a few more risks in my personal life. Professional and creative life is risky enough.
Who inspires you and why?
People who want to make things better for other people.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Help queer folks find their people and help their families get over it. Some things in life are complicated. Queerness isn’t a big deal.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Vieques, Puerto Rico. It’s where I fell in love. The bioluminescent bay there.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d take them on a tour of the West Greenwich Village – it’s the cutest and oldest part of New York.
What are you currently reading?
The Gormenghast Trilogy by Mervyn Peake.
What are you currently listening to?
Moondog, The Breeders and Anita O’Day.
Happiness is?
A warm bun.
What does the future hold for you?
Love and death.
John Cameron Mitchell will present The Origin of Love – The Songs and Stories of Hedwig in the Concert Hall – Sydney Opera House (6 July); Hamer Hall – Arts Centre Melbourne (10 July); and the Concert Hall – QPAC, Brisbane (17 July).
Image: John Cameron Mitchell – photo by Matthew Placek