2 years ago it was a kind of mutual admiration society at the Isle of Wight’s Shanklin Theatre when Joe Pasquale met one of his comedy heroes, Ryde-born Raymond Allen, the writer of Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em. The creator of Frank Spencer was also keen to meet Joe, one of his favourite comedians.
From that very first meeting came the initial idea for Joe to play Frank in a new touring version of the famous television comedy series that has been sold to over 60 countries, since its conception in 1973.
Joe Pasquale can barely wait to play the role:
“I was always a fan of the show and I don’t think anybody from that generation wasn’t. People still talk about the show and Frank Spencer is still in the lifeblood of comedy in this country.
“I will not be trying to do an impression of Michael Crawford, who was so brilliant in the role, otherwise it could become watered down. I think the strength of my performance will rely on my own interpretation of Frank Spencer.”
Raymond Allen, who wrote 3 series of the show, plus a Christmas Special that was watched by almost 25 million people, is delighted that Joe is going to recreate the role in the first British tour of the play which opens in February 2018.
“I think Joe is perfect for the role and I look forward to seeing how he will play Frank. I did write a special version of the show for Sport Aid in 2016, when Michael Crawford returned to play Frank for the last time.”
Back in the early ’70s when Raymond went to Michael Crawford’s house to talk about the show, he still vividly remembers the day. Michael answered the door as he intended to play Frank Spencer and Raymond didn’t realise this. He just thought he had a rather a nervous twitch and an unusual voice.
Joe can be heard on the latest podcast of John Hannam Meets at www.johnhannam.com.
Currently Joe is touring Britain in his brand new show, The Devil In Disguise, which can be seen at the Shanklin Theatre on Friday (28th July).
