You Ask… Louiza Patikas (Moira)
“What was it like working with Vic Reeves?”
Corrie’s medical centre manager Moira has made a big impression on the Street – but how will actress Louiza deal with answering our readers’ questions?
“What was your first day on like?” Coronation Street
The one thing I can remember is being so nervous! Walking down the corridor and thinking: ‘One day, I’ll be walking down these corridors feeling absolutely fine, instead of being completely petrified!’ I’m in a dressing room called ‘Visiting artists dressing room’ and I really like that, because people are coming and
going all the time – other new people share the room. That’s quite jolly, and you feel like you’re one of many people starting out.
“What’s the best thing about working alongside Bev Callard [who plays Liz]?”
I love her so much! I think I text her a bit too often, I’ve had to control myself! The best thing about working with her is that she’s so much fun. And she’s so professional, it’s just incredible the way she turns it on. We have absolute fits of giggles, and a few times the directors have just had to let us get it out of our systems. I love the laughs, and I’m learning so much from her.
“What was it like working with Jim Moir (aka Vic Reeves)?”
He was fantastic, I really miss him. That was part of the nerves of the first few days as well – he’s been a comedy hero of mine for so long. What was kind of cute was that he was also star-struck! He’s watched the programme forever, and was so excited and nervous to be there too. So we were both thrown in together, which was lovely. I loved every second of working with him.
“You’re also in The Archers [Louiza plays Helen Archer] on Radio 4.
Is it difficult trying to find a balance when you’re in two soaps at once?”
It’s not difficult balancing, because
I’ve kind of clocked up quite a few years at The Archers. I’ve been doing it since 2000. They’re like another family – they’re very proud and they’re very happy that I’ve got this other job, and the guys over here also seem to be happy to share me. I’m so lucky!
“You had a very high-profile domestic abuse storyline in The
Archers – what was that like?”
It was a complete honour to be part of it. It took on its own momentum. It was a sort of incredible mix of a fantastic story; a brilliant editor and writers, mixed with the change in legislation. The public interest in those three things together made it bigger than it was, in a way. It was extraordinary to be part of it – really an honour – and we all desperately wanted to get it right.
“Is it strange being recognised by people in the street?”
It’s very strange. I think some people perhaps take it in their stride. I’m like someone’s gone ‘boo!’ to me, every time it happens! I literally jump out of my skin and I can’t quite believe it. I’ve been wandering around totally anonymous for such a long time, I turn round and I think they’re talking to someone else. I’ve not got used to it yet, but I’m trying very hard.
“What do you think you would do if you weren’t an actor?”
Hmm! Maybe a teacher? My mum was a teacher, and I have such huge respect for teachers. We need to pay our teachers more. Every time I hear how much footballers are paid, I lose my temper!
“Are you enjoying Moira’s comedy?”
She’s brilliant, I love her! I think she’s one of those people who sees herself a little bit differently from the way other people see her. There’s something charming in that, and probably excruciating and maddening for other people! I think she’s fabulous and I love her. The Corrie writers are phenomenal. As an actor, you get to know who they all are and how they write – and they seem to quite enjoy writing for her.
“Do you think you would be friends with Moira in real life?”
I’d probably love to have a drink with her in the pub as she would get a bit outrageous and quite fun. But I’m absolutely certain I couldn’t work with her for more than an hour!
“Is there anyone you haven’t worked with yet who you would like to work with on Corrie?”
They’re all fantastic! I have done a little scene with Sally Dynevor [aka Sally], and I’d like to do more with her. I want to do more with Connie [Gina]… I mean
all of them – they’re incredible! Those are two who have just come to mind.
“Can you tease anything that’s coming up for Moira?”
I can’t think of anything I’m allowed to say! I can tell you a little bit of silly trivia from the costume department, though: Moira always has a matched hanky in her pocket. That’s a spoiler for you. Watch out for Moira’s colour co-ordinated hankies!
“Is it weird being recognised in the street?”