How did you feel when you were asked to take part?
It was an honour to be asked to take part and I had no reservations at all. The affection and esteem for Alan Bennett and his work are in no doubt. The challenge was simply to engage with the material here and now, and not with history or expectations.

Without giving too much away, can you tell us a little about your character and Playing Sandwiches?
That's almost impossible to do! All I'll say is - like all of Mr. Alan Bennett's characters - Wilfred is the best teller of his own tale, so you best listen to him, not me…

On a practical level, can you tell us about your preparations for the role that were done remotely?
In many ways preparations were like going back to the days of touring: everyone mucking in and getting on with it, no faff, no ego, it's all about the story and the best way to tell it. It was a delight to 'zoom-collaborate' with Jeremy Herrin the director, Jaqueline Durran our costume designer and Naomi Donne our hair and make-up designer, on how best to realise the character. Other than a dodgy internet connection on one day it was great.

How did filming under social distancing guidelines differ to that of working on a regular British TV drama? Did it affect your performance in any way?
Monologues are the ultimate socially-distance TV to make! It's a cast of one, so it was a straightforward navigation for the most part. My hair, make-up and costumes were pretty straightforward to manage and we chose the looks specifically to aid us in that sense. Of course we're also used to being in close quarters for make-up checks, notes from the director etc, but once we got the lay of the land it was fairly easy. It got a little trickier as the day wore on, simply because old habits die hard, but we all took it in good humour.

Cast size is going to be an issue for TV productions going forward because of the necessary close proximity, intimacy and the requirements of social distancing. There are creative ways around it, but I believe we have to find ways that don't compromise the quality of stories and put lives at risk. Time alone will tell, but I believe we'll find a way.

What do you think it is that makes Alan Bennett’s writing so special?
Like all master storytellers, he weaves wit, warmth and darkness with equal relish and does so with a deceptively light touch.

Why do you think people should tune in to watch Playing Sandwiches?
Because it's a very, very interesting ride and it showcases Mr. Bennett's storytelling at its absolute best. Plus I look freakin' sexy in a gilet.