Harrison Sweeney-Interview ahead of the Edinburgh Fringe 2026.

Last weekend, Harrison Sweeney was performing at Colchester Fringe and is now heading up to the Edinburgh Fringe. I have caught up with Harrison to find out more about Final Queen.

When and where are you performing at the Fringe this year?
Final Queen is on at 9:30pm, 5-30th August (excluding 17th and 24th), at Big Belly Cowgate. I’ll also be performing at a few other cabaret/variety shows so keep an eye on @itsgracelightning on Instagram to find out where else you can see me!

What was the inspiration for your show?
The show was heavily inspired by Australian drag film Priscilla Queen of the Desert, mashed up with our favourite slasher horror films like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. We wanted to play with all the classic horror tropes, combining them with as many drag moves and circus tricks as we could fit in 60 minutes.

Have you performed at any other Fringe Festivals before embarking on Edinburgh?
Final Queen has travelled far and wide on her road trip to Edinburgh. Starting out with the Lambeth Fringe Festival in 2025, then Midsumma (in Melbourne, Australia). Over the summer I performed at The Divine Fringe in London, then travelled to the Ventnor Fringe Festival, and the Colchester Fringe Summer Weekender.

What is the best piece of advice about working in Theatre you have received?
Find the joy! Energy is infectious, if you are having a good time up there on stage, then the audience will have a good time as well. I’ve found this applies to the entire process – from creation, development all the way through to performing.

How did you first get into the Theatre industry?
My mother says that from the age of two, I was dancing all around the house. They put me into dance classes, and I never looked back! From there, it was theatre class, music lessons, and aerial acrobatics, I wanted to do it all.

Who or what inspired you to take to the stage?
One of my earliest memories is watching Kylie Minogue’s Can’t Get You Outta My Head music video and trying to learn the choreography. I think I was about 4 years old! From there, my life has been filled with gay icons and divas, all of whom have contributed to the performer I am today. Liza with a Z was hugely formative for me as an artist, as was seeing Lady Gaga live for the first time.