WATCH: Gareth Gates on his Inverness performance, trip to The Mustard Seed and new musical
I remember being eight years old and watching Gareth Gates be interviewed on the final of Pop Idol.
Well, my younger self would not have been able to believe it as I got to ask him questions on Friday at Eden Court.
The singer-songwriter (40) was up in Inverness to discuss his new show which will be appearing on stage in the Highland capital on April 3.
Gareth Gates Sings Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons will be an action-packed performance for all to enjoy.
Speaking about it, Gareth said: “I’ve put together an incredible cast all backed by a live band. I can’t wait for Inverness to see the show.
“My parents were big fans of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons so it was drummed into me at a young age.
“We are doing songs like Can’t Take My Eyes off You, Big Girls Don’t Cry and Walk Like a Man.
“It’s the sort of show that gets everyone up on their feet dancing and singing.”
Since Pop Idol (which was in 2002 - can you believe that?), Gareth has gone on to have a successful career, releasing albums and performing in the world of theatre.
He is now in the process of writing his own musical, Speechless.
Having had a stammer all of his life, he is passionate about sharing the impact it can have.
He said: “Speechless is about a man who can’t speak.
“I wrote eight songs for it, and then took it to a friend who is a big West End producer and he commissioned the piece.
“We found a great script writer and it will hopefully be on the West End next year.
“I can’t wait for the world to see that one. It’s not just about a repetition of sounds. It kind of shapes and moulds the person that you are and the decisions you make in life.”
Gareth also said he is very much looking forward to performing in Inverness.
He said: “I love performing In Scotland. I find the further north you go, the more up for it the crowds are, so I’m really looking forward to being here for this show in particular.
“To be doing a theatre show in such a prestigious theatre and space is going to be great.”
Also - did I end up fan-girling and asking for a picture? Yes. Yes I did.
For tickets for the show at Eden Court on April 3, visit here.
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