The Diana Mixtape is a campy, tongue-in-cheek but ultimately loving and joyful tribute to the ultimate people's princess, Princess Diana. Drag legends from Ru Paul's Drag Race come together to play out Diana's story through an eclectic mix of pop musical numbers. We sat down with Noel Sullivan, who plays the main man in Diana's life, Charles, to hear his thoughts on this bombastic, irreverent musical.
How does it feel to be joining the cast of The Diana Mixtape? What are you most looking forward to about playing Charles?
It's great to be joining the cast of The Diana Mixtape. Princess Diana was such a gay icon so it feels completely right that we should be honouring her with this fabulous show. I'm most looking forward to having a crack at his famous voice.
For those unfamiliar with the show, can you tell us what The Diana Mixtape is about?
It's a tribute to Lady Di and her amazing life played out by RuPaul's Drag Race royalty to the biggest pop bangers of recent years.
What do you think it is about Diana that continues to inspire and appeal to us?
Her class, elegance, and style were timeless and we love an underdog.
You’ve tackled a wide range of roles in musical theatre. How does playing Charles in The Diana Mixtape challenge you differently?
It's just the same as taking on any other role except there are obviously mannerisms and vocal nuances that people are very familiar with so nailing those are important.
What have been some defining moments in your career that shaped the
kind of performer you are today?
For me, it's working with great directors regardless of the scale of the project. you learn so much from people who have the ability to see skills in you that you don't always necessarily see yourself.
You’ve had a fantastic career. What advice would you give to young actors hoping to work in theatre?
Get used to rejection and don't take it personally. you can't change who you are and will either fit the casting director's and director's idea of what they want or you won't. You have no control over that. But hang in there because when you get to do the thing you love there is no better feeling.
Looking ahead, are there any dream roles or projects on your bucket list?
I just want to work on exciting and creative projects. I'm happiest making things from scratch.
And finally, why should people come see The Diana Mixtape?
It's a wild, camp fever dream and the perfect joyous escape in these tricky times.
