As an actor one does read Shakespeare and does try to learn the classics.

The more that learn to read the less learn how to make a living. That's one thing about a little education. It spoils you for actual work. The more you know the more you think somebody owes you a living.

In this country, the average actor goes to drama school and then perhaps does small parts on British TV, plays a waiter and whatever. And there I was sharing the screen with Christian Slater and Val Kilmer. It's like, did I miss a beat somewhere?

My background is somewhat unusual, as I trained to be a ballet dancer. I worked in the theatre for eight or nine years as a contemporary dancer. But as an actor one does read Shakespeare and does try to learn the classics.

I read about eight newspapers in a day. When I'm in a town with only one newspaper, I read it eight times.

If there really is such a thing as turning in one's grave, Shakespeare must get a lot of exercise.