My favourite things: Amanda Barrie
THE former Coronation Street actress, 72, lives in central London.
BOOK
I’m dyslexic which means reading has never been something I’ve done for pleasure but a few years ago I discovered talking books and they’ve been a revelation. Since then I’ve listened to lots of books –
I particularly enjoy Hilary Bonner’s crime novels.
FILM
All About Eve. When it first came out I thought it was fantastic and still think so. The performances are wonderful and it’s a great story. Another film I can watch over and over again is ET. I go through phases of watching movies and going to the cinema. I find myself going regularly at one time and then I go for months without seeing anything at all.
SONG
Someone To Watch Over Me is my favourite song. I often wonder what Gershwin would have gone on to do, had he not died so young at 38. His music staggers me.
HOBBY
I love looking for unusual bits and pieces in markets and fairs. My friends call it junk but it’s nothing of the sort. I also love going to galleries and buying art.
I only do it occasionally but wandering around in search of beautiful things makes me happy.
SIMPLE PLEASURE
When I’m performing panto the only thing I want to do when I’m not on stage is watch television.
I love flicking through the channels.
SPIRITUAL HOME
Covent Garden is my spiritual home. I’ve lived there since I was 15. I’m devoted to the area. I’m referred to now as “market”, meaning from Covent Garden market which is a title you usually only get when at least four generations of your family have lived there, so I feel very honoured. I definitely want my ashes to be scattered there.
Amanda Barrie is appearing in panto at The Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage until Sunday. For tickets call 08700 131 030 or go to www.gordon-craig.co.uk.