Michael Ball on Welsh women, fabulous family and being ready to set the theatre world alight once more

Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Michael Ball was only four when the Aberfan disaster happened but, growing up around his Welsh family, there was always an understanding of the “appalling devastation” it caused. “You have the Memorial Garden – which is on the site of where the school was – and right next door is a playground for the kids,” recalls the charismatic star, who’s famous for his performances in West End productions such as Les Miserables, Sweeney Todd and The Phantom Of The Opera. The last thing I do before going on stage is cover myself in that.” What’s particularly lovely about Wonderful Wales With Michael Ball is that each episode finishes with him singing with a different local choir across Wales – each of whom hadn’t been able to sing together during the pandemic. “Because there aren’t many places like it in the world, and we should be really proud of it.” Wonderful Wales With Michael Ball starts on Friday, July 9.