THE BWW: UK Q&A: The West End's Paul Spicer!

What is your greatest fear?

Losing those I love the most and I'm pretty scared of flying.

What is your earliest memory?

My mum used to leave me in my pram in the garden while she got on with her work and I remember staring at that tree full of sparrows over and over and feeling very, very bored.

Which living person do you most admire, and why?

The list of dead people I admire is long, the list of the living is somewhat short.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

My inability to ask for help.

Property aside, what's the most expensive thing you've bought?

My car, maybe? I don't really enjoy spending money unless it's on holidays!

What is your most treasured possession?

I love my camera because it makes me appear a brilliant photographer; what is now my engagement ring, which was bought for me 10 years ago; and of course my cat, Peach.

Where would you like to live?

On Ibiza in the North East of the island, in a huge seaside villa with a million roof terraces, my own beach and a permanent pass for Pacha.

What makes you unhappy?

The average - lonely people, animal cruelty, prejudice, taxes, deceit and people who refuse to open their minds.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?

I find it really hard to put on weight so I tend to waste away, especially if I'm a bit stressed out.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

Sleep! I need at least eight hours otherwise it all goes wrong...

What is the best job you've done?

Producing - probably Alan Cumming at the Vaudeville (I Bought A Blue Car Today) because it was a first for us. As an actor, either Tobias in Sweeney Todd with the Gothenburg Opera or Billy in Taboo. I also love our summer course in contemporary musical theatre Taking Notes because it's so inspiring.

Cat or dog?

Cat. Without a doubt. I can't tell you how much I love cats. I spend more time watching cat videos on Youtube than doing anything else.

Who is your best friend in theatre?

My best mate Alex Jessop is currently playing Pepper in Mamma Mia, and then of course there's Julie Atherton who I can't get away from, unfortunately.

If you could edit your past, what would you change?

I would make sure I was born in a hotter part of Europe.

If you could go back in time, where would you go?

To a summer during my primary school years, making dens in the woods and going on bike rides.

When did you last cry?

I'm not much of a crier. Although I watched the movie Ghost a few weeks back and it left me utterly bereft.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?

More time with my family and a hideaway in the countryside.

Paul is a featured soloist in this week's Friday Night is Music Night, 'The Leading Men', on Radio 2 (Friday June 3rd), live at 8pm.

For more information about Taking Notes, just click through to their website www.takingnotes.co.uk.