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My Top 5 Showtunes: Denise Welch

The ”Wind in the Willows” actress tells us the musical numbers she couldn’t live without

Denise Welch
Denise Welch
© Dan Wooller for WhatsOnStage

Denise Welch is best known for her roles on TV shows such as Coronation Street, Waterloo Road and Loose Women.

Her theatre credits include Smack Family Robinson and Steel Magnolias, and she is currently starring as Mrs Otter in The Wind in the Willows at the London Palladium.

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


1. "If My Friends Could See Me Now" from Sweet Charity

I've always loved this song and named my debut novel after it!

2. "Bill" from Showboat

The first song I ever sang on stage at drama school and I was terrified. I've always remembered every word since.

3. "High Flying Adored" from Evita

I fancied David Essex as Che and then Antonio Banderas in the film.

4. "And I Am Telling You" from Dreamgirls

Who doesn't love this song?

5. "A Friend is Still a Friend" from The Wind in the Willows

Neil McDermott and the company of The Wind in the Willows.
Neil McDermott and the company of The Wind in the Willows.
© Marc Brenner/Jamie Hendry Productions

It sums up the friendships I've made during this show.