Taken from the Both Sides Now Tour brochure.
What is your favourite song on the Both Sides Now album?
It’s impossible to say because every song on Both Sides Now is there because I love it. I considered a long list of songs, many of which I’ve wanted to cover for a long time so I’m pleased to say that those are the ones that made it to the final recording.
Which song was most fun to record?
Probably Love Changes Everything with Il Divo. We had an absolute blast in the studio – they’re really great guys and it was a pleasure for me to work with four amazing voices. There was even a little bit of competition in the air which raised the bar even higher! We actually met at the BBC when we were both appearing on The One Show and while we were sitting around in the green room waiting to into the studio, I just asked them If they’d like to record the song with me and they instantly said yes!
What is the strangest thing you’ve ever been asked to sign?
A woman’s breast and when I saw her the next year my signature had been turned into a tattoo!
Will you ever write an autobiography?
No, it’s not something I’ve ever wanted to do although if I ever retire – which is unlikely – and I’ve got time on my hands, I might consider it.
What is the strangest gift ever given to you by a fan?
A suitcase packed with pyjamas – stop laughing in the back – sandwiches, pickles, a scotch egg, and a receipt for a caravan booking in North Wales. This particular fan used to send me two-for-one tokens whipped out of newspapers. I think over the years I probably received several thousand. And no, I didn’t add a toothbrush to the suitcase and spend the weekend in a caravan in North Wales.
Would you ever consider taking part in a reality TV show such as I’m A Celebrity, Strictly Come Dancing etc?
No, as much as I enjoy watching them I don’t want to take part.
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
I love going on holiday when I get the chance and I recently discovered Provence – everything about it is beautiful: the weather, the food, the people, the scenery and it’s incredibly relaxing. It’s got everything I want in a holiday and it’s only two hours away – I can’t believe it took me so long to find it.
At the Fan Club Event you mentioned having obtained the rights to a musical you wanted to stage. Can you tell us yet how this is progressing and what the title is?
My lips are sealed for the moment but I can confirm it’s all going nicely thank you! You’’ll hear about it very soon.
What tops your bucket list?
Visiting and performing in Las Vegas.
If you could sing anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I think it would be amazing to perform at somewhere like the Hollywood Bowl in California – it’s such an extraordinary venue, shaped like a gigantic shell and seats 18,000 people! And it’s set against he backdrop of the Hollywood Hills and the Hollywood sign …. Very romantic.
If asked, would you ever play a different role in Les Mis?
If they offer me Fantine I’ll have a look at it!
Who do you really admire in music and musical theatre?
I admire anyone who can make a career in music and musical theatre – it’s a tough world and there are lots of talented people out there and lots of competition.