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My Top 5 Showtunes: Dean Chisnall

The actor tells us the musical numbers he couldn’t live without

Dean Chisnall
Dean Chisnall
© Dan Wooller for WhatsOnStage

Dean Chisnall's theatre credits include Love Never Dies, the title role in Shrek in the West End and on tour, Blood Brothers and Working.

He has recently returned to the Menier Chocolate Factory, where he played Etienne in La Cage aux Folles in 2009, to star in The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 3/4

We caught up with Dean and asked him: "If you were stranded on a desert island which five showtunes could you not live without?"


1. "Masquerade" from Phantom of the Opera

I could've picked any number from this show. But I thought I'd go against the 'usual' Phantom picks. I'm just an old romantic at heart! Phantom of the Opera was the first musical I ever fell in love with, the one show I could watch over and over again. It's a show I'd love to be in.

2. "Love Can't Happen" from Grand Hotel

Maury Yeston is an absolute genius. I've sung this number so many times and every time I find something new in it which just confirms his incredible songwriting ability. High time the show has another life!

3. "Lily's Eyes" from The Secret Garden

You don't get many stonking duets for two men. This is a belter, I never tire of hearing it.

4. "Is It Really Me?" from 110 In The Shade

You may think this is a strange choice. A relatively unknown piece, it's only had one brief run in London in 1967 at The Palace but the lyrics are so beautifully poignant.

4. "Tell Me It's Not True" from Blood Brothers

Possibly the greatest ending in musical theatre history (no spoilers)!? Blood Brothers is a show I loved from a very young age, it was part of my education. To say I've been in it is a bit of a dream come true.

The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 3/4 runs at the Menier Chocolate Factory until 9 September.