Who is Dolly Diamond?
I’m an entertainer, that’s what I write on my landing card when I come back from my travels. I’ve been an entertainer all my life and it covers a multitude of roles (and sins).
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I expect I’d be an agent or manager. I’ve had to be quite pushy to last as long as I have. Sometimes it doesn’t win you many friends and that can make being the artist a little more difficult. I think you might worry less about that if you were only focussing on representing others and not yourself.
Who inspires you and why?
My parents inspired me, they were strong people and I’m grateful they made me that way too. Nowadays I’m inspired by anyone who enjoys what they do in life. I find it soul destroying to see people plod through life, unhappy with their lot. It’s inspiring to see people enjoy life and that joy becomes so infectious.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I feel lucky to have a job where I get to make people laugh and forget their troubles, if only for a little while. I think I’d encourage more people to do that!
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Impossible to answer… I love travelling. I’ll have to choose London, it’s where so many of my friends are.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’m absolutely wonderful company but there’s not a friend alive who doesn’t need to drink when they’re around me, so it’s straight to cocktail bar. I do love a trip to Arts Centre Melbourne as well, I think it’s such an impressive place to take friends.
What are you currently reading?
These questions, Ruthless! The Musical (script) & Happy-Go-Lucky (David Sedaris).
What are you currently listening to?
Ruthless soundtrack. Ariana Grande – Yes, And.
Happiness is?
Being with people who get me and don’t force me to be something I’m not.
What does the future hold for you?
Well Ruthless opens Friday 1 March and I’m excited and looking forward to audiences seeing me do something a little more challenging. It’s a great show and the cast is ridiculously talented. I’m going to be heading to the U.K in May and spending the rest of the year in Europe. I’ll always enjoy spending the summer months in Australia, there’s nowhere better.
Dolly stars as Sylvia St Croix in Ruthless! The Musical presented by StageBugs Productions at the Alex Theatre, St Kilda from 1 – 24 March 2024. For more information, visit: www.stagebugsproductions.com for details.
Image: Dolly Diamond – courtesy of StageBugs Productions