Interview: Actor Clive Mantle on Peter James’ WISH YOU WERE DEAD

Photo credit: Craig Sugden

Following on from five hit stage shows and the new acclaimed ITV series Grace, the work of best-selling author Peter James returns with the world premiere stage adaption of Wish You Were Dead, which is currently touring the UK. We spoke to Clive Mantle (Casualty, Vicar of Dibley, Game of Thrones) who plays Curtis in the show.

Can you tell us a bit about Wish You Were Dead, omitting any spoilers?

You’ve heard the phrase ‘holiday from hell’ – well, this is a chance to witness one unfold in front of you. Roy Grace, his wife Cleo and baby Noah, have ventured to a French château for a well-deserved holiday. But things turn out very differently for them in a tense and captivating encounter with an old adversary.

Wish You Were Dead is the sixth stage adaptation of a Peter James novel. Why do you think his stories make for such good stage productions? 

Britain seems to be a nation of amateur sleuths and luckily for us, they also love coming to the theatre. You can hear the audience spotting clues and tucking them away, ready to solve the situation before their friends. Grace is a firm favourite in all its incarnations. 

Were you aware of Wish You Were Dead before joining the production? 

Not of this story but I was aware of the Inspector Grace TV series. It’s the largest thriller franchise since Agatha Christie, so I’m told.

Why do you think crime thrillers prove so popular on stage?

It’s a very British passion: crime, police, villains. I’m glad I’m in it as I’m a bit of a ‘wuss’ and would be hiding behind the sofa like I used to do watching Doctor Who as a child. 

Grace has been a massive hit since it launched on ITV. Do you think that this will encourage fans to come and see Wish You Were Dead on stage?

It certainly does. When we sign programs at stage door, people constantly relate their love for the books and TV series. They’re very flattering about our version, which is great news for us as lots of effort goes into the production. 

What are you enjoying most about being on tour? 

Catching up with friends in various cities, old haunts, old memories from previous tours and seeing how the nation changes over the years, not always for the better a lot of the time. Every High Street seems to be the same now. I miss the eccentric, individual shops and cafés. 

How would you encourage audiences to book a ticket for Wish You Were Dead? 

The full tour schedule can be found at peterjames.com. Tickets make great presents for birthday and celebrations. I hope you enjoy the show if you come.

Wish You Were Dead continues to tour until July, with tickets for select touring venues available here.