Who is Michael Dalton?
I consider myself to be an entertainer… I’ve never been a triple threat though. I sing and act, but when I dance like the whole worlds watching, I look over and they’re laughing their arses off.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
My Dad was a salesman and he brought us up with an ability to sell ice to Eskimos, So I’d be selling something (other than myself) if I had a different job… Or maybe in politics, selling my soul.
Who inspires you and why?
People who work hard for what they want. I don’t find myself looking at someone specifically though. For me it’s more about managing to keep your hopes and dreams alive in this profession that I find inspirational.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Wow! I’d do my bit. Growing up we’ve always heard, “Things were different in my day”. I’d like us all to respect each other a little more. I’d also have a National Free Chocolate Day (NFCD).
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere there’s sunshine and great company. London in the summertime is pretty special for me but a week in Sitges (Spain) is a lovely way to warm the cockles.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take then to, and why?
It’s always dinner, show and drinks. How lucky are we here in Melbourne that there’s always some sort of festival going on… I love a drink and my friends do too, there’s nothing more attractive to me than a fun boozy night with your pals.
What are you currently reading?
“I never read anything I haven’t written myself “ – Elle McPherson. To be honest I’m off books until I’ve learnt this script.
What are you currently listening to?
Paloma Paloma Paloma, ‘Cause you gotta have Faith.
Happiness is?
I’m at my happiest when I’m making people laugh, or when I’m laughing.
What does the future hold for you?
Well I hope it continues the way it’s going. My Mother always said to me I would have to work hard for everything I got and I have. If the future allows me to do that then I’ll be happy. I would also like to nominate myself as an Ambassador for NFCD.
Michael Dalton was born in the UK and his professional career began as a 10 year old when he played the title role in Oliver! (West End London). He immigrated to Australia in the 80’s with his family and lived in Melbourne and attended Ringwood High School, Box Hill TAFE (Drama) and Rusden (Drama). Joining a cappella group The Phones, Michael performed nationally for 4 years. Appearing numerous times on Hey Hey It’s Saturday and as weekly regulars on The Bert Newton Show.
In 1990-2000 Michael began his relationship with The Rocky Horror Show performing in and staying with the production as it toured Australia and New Zealand (understudying Riff Raff and The Narrator). He then moved back to the UK appearing in many productions across the UK and Europe, playing the role of Rocky.
Michael was backing singer with Julian Clary in Australia & UK for 3 years, and also toured with Richard O’Brien in Disgracefully Yours, West End, Edinburgh Festival and the Bottom Line in New York. Michael played The Naked Maid in Naked Boys Singing in the West End. Since then he has worked steadily as a solo singer / performer internationally (UK, Europe, SE Asia).
In the late 90’s, Michael created the character of Dolly Diamond, and has performed as Dolly to great acclaim across the UK, as well as numerous seasons at Chapel off Chapel (2004 – 2015), Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Adelaide Feast Festival and the Chill Out Festival (2004 – 2015).
Dolly’s show Under A Big Top was a premiere event for Midsumma 2015, as well as being a Glamstop Ambassador for Yarra Trams. Dolly made her debut at the 2015 Melbourne International Comedy Festival in The Real Queen of Moomba, and recently joined a team of celebrities as an ambassador for Blue September (cancer charity) and Sing For Good (choir initiative).
Michael was also producer and cast member of The Three Of Us (with Luke Gallagher and Rachael Dunham), which sold out its season at fortyfivedownstairs in 2014, and again at Chapel Off Chapel in 2015. He has been a radio presenter on The Royal Daltons since 2009 on JOY 94.9
Michael will be starring in Jimmie Chinn’s A Different Way Home at Chapel Off Chapel until 11 October 2015. For more information, visit: www.chapeloffchapel.com.au for details.
Image: Michael Dalton