Interview: Derek Griffiths
Driving Miss Daisy comes to Theatre Royal Brighton in September, starring Derek Griffiths and Dame Sîan Phillips. After winning over hearts in children’s television, and then again in Coronation Street, Derek Griffiths talks to Victoria Nangle about his return to the stage.
You have been so much a part of so many people’s childhoods, due to your involvement with children’s television. Is there an intimacy with your audience, from that early trust and familiarity?
Yes, there was a strong trust indeed, which I’ve always been humbled by. Because of my long association with theatre, many kids who had never ever been in a theatre ever, would come round to the stage door to talk with me of their new found experience.
Particularly, when I was at Stratford on Avon, kids who said they had grown up with me, wanted to see how irreverent I would be with Shakespeare.
A few people have mentioned to me that yours was the first black face that they saw on television, when they saw you on Play School. Were you aware of this kind of an impact you had at the time?
The impact for me was as in theatre, did they laugh? No one that I can remember mentioned my blackness. I just hoped I did the job well.
You’ve recently left Corrie’s cobbles – how did you find being involved with such a British institution?
Corrie was a joy to do, such a great bunch of people, admin and cast.
Are you likely to return to Coronation Street after this tour – what are your plans?
The door at Corrie has been left open. So… who knows.
The door at Corrie has been left open. So… who knows
It’s a politically hot time to tour ‘Driving Miss Daisy’, what with the tensions currently occurring Stateside, the divisions that are appearing in the shadow of Trump, in contrast to what appeared to be Obama’s best efforts. Was this something you considered especially when you decided to take on the role?
No, I never even gave the political side a thought. It is a gentle piece about the growing bond between two very different people, it should be a heartwarming reminder to people that love still exists in the world against all odds.
And do you think the current political climate affects how you play Hoke?
The current political climate would not affect Hoke. He is an uneducated man, but with a rich regard to life and people.
What do you most enjoy about returning to live theatre from television?
Working on TV has always been a challenge to me, as enjoyable as it is, you cannot see an audience smile… or laugh.
Of the many programmes you’ve been involved with aimed at younger views, which was your favourite and why?
Heads and Tails, Bod and Magical Mysteries, as I had complete freedom writing the music.
I heard that you are a keen sailor: do you think you’ll be taking advantage of the Brighton Marina while you’re in town?
I have bought two boats from Brighton Marina in my time, but sailing is now crewing on other folks boats, it’s cheaper.
Driving Miss Daisy, Theatre Royal Brighton, Mon 18 – Sat 23 September 2017, 7.45pm & matinees at 2.30pm on Thursday and Saturday (captioned performance on Thursday evening), £16.90 – £48.90, www.atgtickets.com
