Billy Suter discusses TV likes and dislikes with Ashley Searle, who is presenting his fun, innovative dance show at the Hilton Arts Festival.
|||Billy Suter discusses TV likes and dislikes with dancer ASHLEY SEARLE, who is presenting his fun, innovative dance show, Big Boys The Third, at 10am on Saturday at Hilton College, as part of the weekend’s Hilton Arts Festival.
WHAT television show do you try to not miss?
The Graham Norton Show. He is hilarious and the show is a great mix of comedy, gossip and current entertainment news.
The television show you find the most over-rated?
Dance Moms. Growing up as a dancer, I was aware of the drama dancers’ mothers would cause, and I was always so happy that my parents were so relaxed. They were supportive, but just let me get on with it.
Now that I choreograph, judge competitions and teach workshops, meddling moms are a pet hate. I saw one episode of Dance Moms, and I can’t watch any more. It just hits a nerve.
A television show you have loved a lot over the years?
Watching an episode of Friends takes me to my happy place. It’s just such a feel-good programme. Pure escapism.
Television shows you have not enjoyed over the years?
Grey’s Anatomy. I really loved the first season, and the medical side of it is gripping, but, hell’s bells, I can’t keep up with the drama.
Your favourite TV character of all time – and why?
Chandler from Friends. Brilliant scripting makes him a comedy legend. My character in my new dance show, Big Boys The Third, has elements of his sarcasm.
Your favourite television presenter?
Candice Hillebrand. A huge crush from my early KTV days.
Favourite and least favourite TV celebrity chefs?
Gordon Ramsay is my favourite. He is “hectic”, but has created such a brand. I love his Kitchen Nightmares series – and ever since my wife, Vanessa, and I took over the Kalk Bay Theatre and restaurant, we have learnt loads from other people’s mistakes. My least favourite chef onTV is that really classy guy with the bleached hair from Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.
Favourite TV theme tunes over the years?
Barney and Friends ... when that song starts I know I have a half-hour of my 2-year-old daughter being happy. And when she’s happy, I’m happy.
A television show you would love to see remade?
The X-Files. I’d love to see what they could do with modern CGI.
The funniest thing you ever saw on television?
The entire audition process for Coca-Cola Pop Stars some years back. Watching poor hopefuls sing I Believe I’m a Fly was priceless.
The Mercury