'I've Earned Every Wrinkle & Stretchmark'

The BAFTA-nominated actress, who rose to fame as part of the Goodness Gracious Me team, opens up about being back on stage – and tells us why she’s embracing ageing

- Rosie Gizauskas

Meera Syal is a breath of fresh air when we call her for a chat. We’ve managed to snag some time in her busy schedule – she’s currently playing the orphanage owning drunk and floozy Miss Hannigan in Annie, having taken over from Craig Revel Horwood. Meera, 56, lets us in on how she balances family life with work, how she fought the menopause, and just how romantic she is…

Miss Hannigan’s a real party girl. Are you anything like her?

It’s so fun being nasty. I’m loving it, but I’m exhausted – it’s so full-on. I’m not really a dancer, but I’m learning new skills, which is good. She spends most of her time sloshed or hungover – not like me, I hardly ever drink!

Did Craig Revel Horwood give you any advice on the role?

To have a ball – which he really did – and make sure to get lots of rest, as it’s late nights. I do breakfast for my son [Shaan, 12] but then I go back to bed! My admiration for musical theatre has increased tenfold.

You look great. So what’s your workout regime like?