BBC RADIO 2: THE MICHAEL BALL SHOW
SUNDAY, JANUARY 15, 2023
“Let’s get started, my lovelies.” And with that, we’re off on another 2 hour jaunt with Michael on a Sunday morning. His upbeat choice of music tells us he’s in a GREAT mood despite a less than perfect vacation. Michael and family went away to the seaside for a week. He pictured calming, beautiful walks along the beach. Instead he got torrential rain and wind, and the dogs were covered in mud. “To be honest,” he said, “it’s my own fault. Who goes to the beach in January?” But he didn’t want to take the new pup far so this seemed the ideal solution. I love the way his world still revolves around Wilbur. How do you not admire a man who loves his dogs?
On The Ball is full of comical asides from Michael, making it an entertaining segment with lots of chuckles. And he takes great pleasure in what the loser has to do for the winner. A side note – The chatter about pizza made me hungry!
Michael commiserates with Orna about his vacation weather. “My skin has been exfoliated by Mother Nature.” He couldn’t even say he got fresh air because he never went out. But he got a “good clean” from the rain! The two of them of course go off on one of their endearing giggle-fits. I also find it amazing how, at times, they completely converse in falsetto voices. They have their own private language – Ornaball !!
Michael’s first guest is Reece Shearsmith, best known for being part of A League of Gentlemen. He’s currently starring in THE UNFRIEND, a comedy/farce in the West End. They discuss the actors and the quirks of what sounds like a very funny script. Against the backdrop of this dark comedy is a theme that is ripe for so many twists and turns: The English are too polite. They also talk about Reece’s well-known TV series “Inside No 9.” I’m new to this actor and his history, so I found the interview interesting.
Amber Davies, Michael’s second guest, is currently starring in BACK TO THE FUTURE: THE MUSICAL as Lorraine Bains McFly at the Adelphi Theater in the West End. Bravo to Michael for always promoting what’s going on in the London theater scene. Amber came into the spotlight with LOVE ISLAND (which Michael reveals he secretly visited). They talk about many things, including Dolly Parton, who Michael unabashedly adores.
Loved Michael’s heartfelt whine (almost a sob) at the mention of someone taking off for Jamaica. “I want to go to Jamaica … Jamaica … “ he mews. I guess the question is: Do you want Jamaica or Wilbur?
Listening to Michael’s radio show is one of the highlights of my busy week. His instinct to find humor in the smallest thing, his ability to sweep everyone along with his giggles is such a gift. He reminds me to slow down, that life is too short not to enjoy every moment. Michael Ball is one of the busiest men on the planet, so I figure if he can do it, so can I. With Michael’s laughter ringing in my ears, I’m ready to face the day…