I’ve become a
Comedy star Su Pollard talks to GABRIELLE FAGAN about turning 70 and the joys of ageing
What was your introduction to showbiz?
AGED six, I played one of the Angel Gabriel’s helpers in a nativity play and had to stand on a cardboard box. I was just telling Mary, ‘Fear not! Angel Gabriel will...’ then I disappeared into the box before I could finish the line. The teacher hadn’t made it strong enough. I climbed out and remember everyone laughing and loving every minute of it. It still gives me a buzz. I took part in amateur dramatics from age 11 and knew I had to make acting my career. I began singing in working men’s clubs in Nottingham, where I grew up. I adore comedy but I also absolutely love singing. I used to go to the same auditions as Elaine Paige – she got Evita at the same time as I got Hi-de-Hi! – it’s fate the way things play out.
How do you look back on the BBC sitcom Hi-de-Hi! now and playing chalet maid Peggy?
WITH great affection. You have to thank God for getting a role like that in this business, which can be tough. We had so many laughs making it. During one rehearsal, I got into a horse’s costume – I was the back end. The only problem was, there was a real horse in the field. It trotted over and tried to mount me – the fake one’s rear end!
I kept saying, ‘Get him off, get him off!’ But that horse was extremely insistent and everyone was laughing so hard, they couldn’t pull themselves together to rescue me.
What are some of your memorable moments?
I’VE had so many and met so many fantastic people. Singing for Dame Vera Lynn at her 100th birthday celebration at the
London Palladium three years ago in front of the Queen is right up there.
At a 10 Downing Street reception, I tap-danced with Princess Diana because she’d just started learning some steps and we hugged afterwards.
You are now 70. How do you look after yourself?
MANY years ago – I think I was ahead of my time on this – I discovered mindfulness and realised the importance of living in the now.
It’s about trying not to worry about what might happen because the reality is just that – it might not! My mantra’s always been, ‘the best of times is now’, and to appreciate each particular moment because it won’t come again. I talk to myself all the time, which helps me sort things out in my head and rely on my gut instinct when making decisions.
My dad, Don, who was my rock, had sound, succinct advice on dealing with tough times: ‘You know what you have to do, love, just get on with it’.
I’m thrilled to bits to get to 70. After all, it’s only another ‘0’ .
What inspired your quirky take on fashion?
I’VE always loved to dress flamboyantly and creatively put unusual or bizarre things together. I don’t really care what anyone else thinks, and while years ago people didn’t get it, nowadays younger people come up to me to compliment me. Would you believe, I’ve become a so-called style icon! Anyway, I can’t imagine ever wearing some of the shapeless clothes with elasticated that I can play a serious part in a really thought-provoking drama.
What can you tell us about playing extreme hoarder Birdie in stage show Harpy?
BIRDIE is someone who has fallen through the cracks of life. There are a lot of women out there like her.
She lives alone, she doesn’t want to be this hoarder but she can’t seem to get out of it.
She’s had a trauma in her life, which is revealed and is sad. She’s lovely deep down but a bit confused and troubled, yet she gets called a harpy, harridan and hag. Work keeps me going, it’s a motivation, my passion, and I definitely don’t want to retire – new projects bring me joy. I hate that expression ‘workaholic’ – I’m a work enthusiast!
You’re single. Do you ever feel lonely like Birdie?
NEVER. I’m very happy being single. I hear of so many people in terrible relationships and I’m thankful I don’t have that hanging over my shoulders. Basically, unless I meet someone who can bring more enjoyment to my life, I’m not going to bother with a relationship. Most people of my age, of course, are preoccupied with grandchildren but I’ve never regretted not having a family. I didn’t feel I could cope with that 24/7 responsibility.