AN unexpected stint on stage has seen Kingsdown actor Patrick Cremin step up to the mark and take the lead role in a London show.

Mr Cremin, whose acting career consists mainly of TV and voice overs, was the understudy for the lead man in Fortune’s Fool, which is showing at the Old Vic Theatre.

He said he thought his return to theatre work may involve a performance or two, but since the lead actor fell ill, he has been on stage more then 50 times since Monday, December 23.

“It’s been really exciting,” said Patrick.

The play is a black comedy. His character Kuzovkin is a Russian gentleman who has fallen on hard times and has been staying in a country house as a guest for 30 years. But Kuzovkin has a secret that is finally revealed just before the interval.

“The first half is very funny and the second half is very moving.

“It’s a great challenge for any actor,” added Mr Cremin, who lives on The Rise.

For the full story, see this week's East Kent Mercury. Out on Thursday.