Hairy Biker earning his crust with double bill of 'Propa' fun

A warm, witty double bill on Si King's native Tyneside is on the menu at Live Theatre, writes SAM WONFOR

- SAM WONFOR

> Si King's forthcoming shows will feature a free interval pie for all ticket-holders

SI KING will be taking to a home-turf stage in Newcastle next week for a festive two-nighter at Live Theatre and he's bringing a trunk full of North East humour, a lifetime of stories, and a pie for every audience member.

Running across two evenings, Si King's Propa Night Oot! marks the latest step in the Hairy Biker's solo journey, almost two years after the untimely death of his longtime friend and co-adventurer Dave Myers.

Si's inaugural solo tour - which also included the 59-year-old playing alongside lifelong musical pals - was understandably emotionally charged; a chance to grieve with audiences as much as perform for them.

"I wanted my opportunity to say goodbye with our fans... I found each performance pretty hard to get through," he says. "But I was sure Dave would be happy I was doing it - just as I would have been for him."

Propa Night Oot! is different: gentler, looser, more like a night down the pub with a mate who happens to have spent a career on the road, cooking in kitchens and telling millions about it via the telly and a catalogue of bestselling books.

"This time round, it's more in conversation with," he continues. "So I'll be having a bit of chat... then me and Rory the executive chef at Propa will demo making a little pie."