The 'Coolest' Final Curtain Tour

Feb 27 2013 By Jo-Anne Rowney

FOR a decade there was only ever one name that sprung to mind when it came to creative impressions and original comedy - Phil Cool.

Comedians such as Alastair McGown and Jon Culshaw have described him as unmissable and an inspiration to their own careers. Now after forty
years in the industry Phil is embarking on his ‘Final Curtain Tour’ with a stop off in the Elgiva Theatre, in Chesham on March 2. Phil
Cool catches up with us before his visit.

What is your career highlight so far?

Breaking away from night clubs and cabaret venues and making the shift into theatres which culminated into performing at the London Palladium
although my first big theatre, the Leeds Grand will always stand out as the highlight of my career.

What made you decide that this is your last tour?

Well, you’ve heard of Sea Sick Steve, well I’m car sick Phil, the travelling on the roads is hard work with the amount of traffic and the motorways being closed late at night. This combined with being 65 in April, has brought me to the decision to stop touring the theatres up and down the country.

How did you first get into impressions, was there something that made you realise you were good at it?

Two things, the mirror and the laughter from people I tried them out on.

How long does it take to capture someone in an impression and could anyone master it?

Some subjects are easier to do than others. Some just come without any effort at all others are abandoned after years of trying to perfect
them. Impressionism though is a natural gift, not everyone can do it.

Alastair McGowan says you inspired him to do impressions. Who inspired you and do you have a favourite current comedian?

I enjoyed Mike Yarwood and also American impressionist Rich Little

Have you ever met someone you’ve done an impression of and been embarrassed?

No but I once gave Paul Daniels a wide berth

Who is your favourite person to imitate and why?

Rolf Harris, because of his numerous talents and eccentricities, but mainly because of the instant recognition I get when I morph into him

What can audiences expect from the show? Are there particular impressions they should look out for?

Two hours of surprise . Look out for my David Beckham, also David Attenborough talking with a Dolphin

Who current celeb would you like to impersonate?

Stephen Fry!

What’s next for your career?

Minimum of travel, plenty of writing like stories, songs, poems, and keeping busy locally, but not too busy,

Phil Cool is on at the Elgiva, in St Mary’s Way, Chesham, HP5 1HR on
March 2 at 8pm.

Visit www.elgiva.com.