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NICHOLAS PARSONS’ HAPPY HOUR

The archetypal smooth Britgent tackles our highly invidious Q&A. And doesn’t take to it at all.

When did you last cry and how long did the tears run for?

When Maria Sherapova won at Wimbledon. I was very moved. You don‘t time such occurrences.

Who would you like to see playing you in the film of your life?

I have never entertained such a conceited thought.

Who’s the best dressed British celebrity?

Dale Winton. He wears clothes with style. What’s your least favourite country?

I find something interesting in every country I have visited.

Which time in history would you love to have lived in?

The 17th century. It was exciting, romantic. elegant. with huge Cultural and scientific advances.

What’s your favourite biscuit?

Plain McVitie digestive.

Who’s been the best on Just a Minute over the years and what has made them so darned good?

It would be quite invidious for me to answer this. How many times do you look in a mirror every day?

When I shave. comb my hair. and do make-up for my stage show. Whenever necessary. and for no other reason.

What’s your all-time favourite sitcom? Dad’s Army. It is so essentially British.

If you won a million pounds, what is the most expensive thing you'd buy?

A yacht.

What’s your biggest regret?

That I ever agreed to complete this time- consuming questionnaire.

Do you have a lucky number?

Thirteen. More good things have happened to me on Friday 13th than any other day.

What’s the punchline to your favourite joke?

‘Brigadier. '

I Pleasance Courtyard, 556 6550, 8—28 Aug, 5.30pm, £9.50—E7050 (28—29). Preview 7 Aug, £5. Just a Minute Is on Radio 4, Mon, 6.30pm.

30 THE LIST FESTIVAL MAGAZINE 13—12 Aug 2004

‘Why pay 210 to listen to a load of stuff you already believe?’

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New Zealand’s finest physical comedian will be transforming himself on stage from a kindly doctor into a hideous beast. Probably with bad breath and awful table manners. Here’s a sneak preview.

Dr Jekyll is awaiting the effect of the potion

Oh yeah, he can feel it swelling up inside him

Yes! His youth is restored; he’s feeling great!

I Pleasance Courtyard, 556 6550. 6—30 Aug (not 70, I7), 7pm. 53950-41 mu .«5‘8 5‘ it). /)':"‘..~‘(}‘.‘. :i flat}. 3‘5).