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10 quick questions for Michael Ball

Michael Ball
Michael Ball

We grill singer Michael Ball with our 10 quick questions.

Why did your parents give you the middle name Ashley?

They named me after Ashley Wilkes, the character in Gone With The Wind who turned down Scarlett O’Hara. He was played by Trevor Howard.

Do you prefer comedy acting or dramatic?

I think I’d go for comedy. I know my strengths and there are loads of people who have more experience of the dramatic stuff than I have.

Andrew Lloyd Webber or Rogers and Hart?

I love Andrew’s stuff obviously. I’ve sung it so many times. But I’m also a huge fan of Rogers and Hart. It’s such a hard one. I can’t choose.

Elaine Paige or Lesley Garrett?

Oh no, that’s not fair. They’re both friends of mine. That’s not right. Can I ask to be excused please?

What’s more useful on a flight a pillow or a pashmina?

A pashmina. You can make that into a pillow. You can also snuggle up with it. I love a good pashmina. I wouldn’t want to fly without one.

Can you read music?

No. I wish I could sometimes. Being able to read music would make life simpler.

If you’re in a West End show, is there any upside to having to wear make-up and wigs every night?

My curly hair changes and all the kinks go. It’s cheaper than hair straighteners.

Your mum’s Welsh. Can you sing the Welsh national anthem?

Yes, I can, all the way through. I know all the words.

Do you still get stage fright now and again?

Of course. I don’t know a performer who doesn’t.

You have 24 hours left to live. How do you spend the time?

I’d cook for my loved ones, then I would eat, drink, cry and hug everyone. After that, just before I go, I’d call Sky Television and ask for a rebate.

Report by Paul Coia