My Theatre Firsts: Cyrano de Bergerac star Nigel Barrett

Nigel Barrett stars as the titular character in Anthony Burgess’ translation of Edmond Rostand’s classic novel, directed by Northern Stage’s Lorne Campbell. The production runs at Royal & Derngate until 25 April and at Northern Stage from 29 April to 16 May.

1. What was the first show you went to?

My dad worked for the steelworks and every year they would fill a coach with the workers kids, gorge them on sugar and take them to the panto in Porthcawl Pavillion and we would have a riot.

2. When did you first decide to become an actor?

I have various memories of this . Either 5, 13 or 19 years old.

3. Who was the first actor you were inspired by?

Bob Peck.

4. What was your first professional role?

A nasty man with a gun in a Canadian play.

5. How did you react to your first review?

It was nice but they had a photo of a completely different actor from another show, which made me giggle.

6. What was the first piece of advice you were given in your acting career?

Read the newspaper. Find out about the world. It's not all about you.

7. Which is the first word that comes to your head when I say theatre?

Exciting.

8. If you were directing Cyrano de Bergerac, who is the first person you would think of to cast in your role?

Melissa McCarthy.

9. What is the first thing you will do when your run in Cyrano de Bergerac comes to an end?

Start work on something.

10. If you could choose any role that you would like to take on next, what is the first that comes to mind?

Willy Wonka.