Joanna Page (Susan)

The Welsh actress and comedian, best known for hit sitcom Gavin & Stacey, explains why her role in Dial M For Middlesbrough was the type of part she’s never played before and very, very comfortable.

Joanna Page (Susan)

What attracted you to Dial M for Middlesbrough?

I'd seen the previous two films and thought they were brilliant. I thought it would be great fun to be part of it. When they asked me, I thought, "I'd love to be involved." It's been the most fantastic job.

You have worked with Johnny Vegas before, haven't you?

Yes, and he's lovely. It's fabulous to be working with him again. He just makes you laugh the whole time. He's naturally funny. When you are filming with him, it is hilarious, but he is also a brilliant actor. But you have to try and compose yourself before doing scenes with him because he's so funny. There have been times when I have had to look down and not into the camera because it was so difficult not to laugh. I have a lot of close-ups, so that's been quite challenging!

Have you also enjoyed collaborating with the rest of the cast?

Absolutely. It's a wonderful cast. We are all very excited about working with Jason Donovan. My God, I grew up watching him in Neighbours. I was in love with Scott. When I told my mum I was working with him, she was delighted, too. He is one of the most famous people I've worked with. He's very funny. He looks exactly the same as he did when he was on the cover of Smash Hits.

What appealed to you about playing Susan?

I never get to play characters like this. This is the most comfortable costume I've ever worn. The shoes are hideous, but so comfortable. I'm usually in heels. It's nice not have to do anything to be sexy. I can just be normal.

What kind of character is Susan?

Susan says herself that she is odd. She says that when she was young, she was dropped on her head by her mother. She is very simple. She's a chef, and that's her life. But she's also quite mysterious. You don't know whether she's a baddie or a goodie. She is odd, but also rather frightening.