What did my parents say when I told them I wanted to be an actor? 'Be a plumber.'

It would've been hard to do something else, to as it were, run away from the circus and become an accountant.

At heart, this job is about continuing to make great theatre for the people of Sheffield - a city I've known and loved since childhood.

Of course 'Hamlet' is a debate about the nature and morality of revenge and whether it is right to do something to assuage your angry feelings.

The idea that if you are very clever you shouldn't be an actor would be laughable in Russia.

We'll be back. I promise you that.

Most good art is left wing. It's a moot point whether there is any good right-wing art.

Where licentiousness begins, liberty ends.

My one remaining professional ambition is to read the shipping forecast. I live in hope.

I absolutely love working with my dad because there is such an ease about it, and I also love his company.

I usually play toffs and soldiers, with a sideline in mass murderers.

Marriage is just an elaborate game that allows two selfish people to periodically feel that they're not.

Smile without reason, because you are the reason.

Chicken and horse meat are the best foods for weightlifters, and good food is important.

If I were trapped in one city and had to eat one nation's cuisine for the rest of my life, I would not mind eating Japanese. I adore Japanese food. I love it.

The reason there's so much ignorance is that those who have it are so eager to share it.

When you are unhappy, is there anything more maddening than to be told that you should be contented with your lot?

Happiness is the art of relaxation.

The composer makes plans, music laughs.

I think I can live without you, but it won't be any kind of life.

When you choose to be pleasant and positive in the way you treat others, you have also chosen, in most cases, how you are going to be treated by others.