Sir Antony Sher

Sir Antony Sher stars in a new play called Keane

In a Hardtalk Extra programme broadcast on Friday 9th March, Gavin Esler spoke to one of the most acclaimed actor on the English stage, Sir Antony Sher.

Through a series of classic performances, Sir Antony Sher has established himself as of the most eminent actors on the English stage.

Taking time out from rehearsals for his new play Keane, which will hit London's West End shortly, he talks to Gavin Esler about a life battling his demons of shyness, stage fright and cocaine addiction.

And he explains why the government must continue to subsidise the "treasure" of British theatre.

HARDtalk Extra can be seen on BBC World at 0330 GMT, 0830 GMT, 1430 GMT, and 1830 GMT.

It can also be seen on BBC News 24 at 04:30 and 23:30.