WC MAY 15.
I went to the New Theatre, Wimbledon, on Wednesday, to catch up with an old friend, Les Dennis, and to see his latest show, The Addams Family, a brilliant musical comedy. I first met Les back in 1986 and we have met many numerous times since then. He’s a great guy and has never changed. He’s just always been a pleasure to both meet and interview. He plays the part of Uncle Fester in debut UK tour of the musical. It also stars Samantha Womack and Carrie Hope Fletcher. There is not a weak link in the cast and I can barely wait to see it again. I’ve never seen a show like it for strong songs, some superb comedy and a fair share of dramatic moments. It’s a little dark at times, which adds another dimension to this amazing show. You don’t have to be an Addams Family fan to enjoy this one. I’d never seen the TV series. Listen out soon for Les Dennis on John Hannam Meets. More details soon.
Friday was a day I will never forget. Bertie and I went to High Wycombe to attend the funeral of Les Payne, a fantastic singer/songwriter, who was born on the Isle of Wight. There had never ever been so many cars at the Amersham Crematorium. The seats were all taken, there were so many standing and others sat on the floor. It was a non-religious ceremony taken by Les’ son Crispin, who did such a wonderful job. It was so emotional but such a perfect way to celebrate the life of Les Payne. I enjoyed interviewing Les on numerous occasions but my ultimate pleasure was just knowing him. A genuine one-off – and hundreds felt the same way.