Janice Connolly and Barbara Nice
Published: Tuesday 14th April 2020
One random comedian, eight random questions; it's the ultimate test of funny person and fate. This week we bring you a unique double-header: first up it's Janice Connolly, the admirable character comedian, actor (remember Holy Mary from Phoenix Nights?) and all-round behind-the-scenes theatre hero, so much so that she was awarded a British Empire Medal in 2017. We don't get many of those on here.
What has Connolly been up to lately? Well she's been heavily involved in the Mrs Barbara Nice and Friends podcast. And it's gotten busier.
"We've been doing the podcast for about a year but the current situation has seen us going daily," says Connolly. "It's basically Barbara Nice talking to a wide range of people about a wide range of things - hopefully it's joyful fun."
Barbara - the force-of-nature Brummie housewife you may recall from last year's Britain's Got Talent semis - chips in to explain: "It's me talking to people I like. Now it's over the phone: it was in Paul's shed till they said we couldn't go out..."
And how is Connolly finding the lockdown?
"The current situation demonstrates how quickly things we thought were set in stone can change," she says. "Like many people my kitchen drawers have never been more streamlined. I will be glad when the ceasefire is called, but at the same time it is a relief to be off the conveyer belt for a bit."
Time to line up some questions then. Janice Connolly and Barbara Nice, your Random 8 await.
What was your favourite TV show, growing up?
Janice: I liked The Double Deckers.
Barbara: Prisoner Cell Block H.
Who are you most envious of?
Janice: People who live close to their families.
Barbara: Anyone with bi-folding doors.
Is there a book or film that changed your life?
Janice: Loads of them, starting with Bambi film-wise, and Paddington book-wise.
Barbara: Dirty Dancing. I love Patrick Swayze.
Who's the most interesting person you've ever met?
Janice: My Mother.
Barbara: My pal Dirty Mary fascinates me. I can't work out what makes her tick.
What's the most regrettable thing you've ever bought?
Janice: Immac hair removal cream.
Barbara: A wedding ring.
What's the worst job you've ever had?
Janice: I've always been grateful for paid employment - every job I've done has had its pluses and minuses.
Barbara: Knitting fog.
Which historical figure should get more attention?
Janice: Wilma Flintstone.
Barbara: Anne of Green Gables.
What's the most extravagant thing you've ever done?
Janice: Once every two years or so, I buy myself a very nice winter coat.
Barbara: Got a taxi back from Morrison's.
The Mrs Barbara Nice and Friends podcast is available from brumradio.com
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