June Rodgers talks to GENEVIEVE CARBERY
What's your earliest holiday memory?I remember my father built a caravan. It looked exactly like everyone else's, but it was space silver rather than brown and beige. We got quite a lot of looks driving into Skerries caravan park. Skerries was fantastic in those years, with a fun park, slot machines and swing boats – and the picture house for rainy days.
What was your worst holiday?I went to the Canaries with an old pal of mine, Frank. When we arrived we realised there was only one bedroom, so one of us stayed in the sitting room. I have a hereditary problem of snoring, and I thought Frank was going to kill me. There was no air conditioning, so I had to sleep on the balcony. I awoke to the people in other apartments shouting in frustration for me to be quiet. Frank locked me out on the balcony, and I was eaten alive by mosquitoes. Finally, there was a 15-hour delay at the airport coming back. So it was hell for both of us – and for most of the other people in the resort.
What was your best holiday?Five of us used to go away on a relaxing girlie week to Miraflores, on the Costa del Sol, in Spain. Everyone would do their own thing. I'd go shopping – I'm a shoe addict but can't walk in half of them – and we would meet up in a nice restaurant later. We did it for five years growing up, but it kind of stopped. I miss it, really, as it was a great laugh.
If budget or work were not a restriction, what would be your dream holiday?I've always wanted to go to Australia. I know so many people who have been there. The way of life is fantastic – very chilled out – with good weather. Of course I watch Home and Awayand Neighbours, so I'd like to meet Dr Karl. I'd also like to swim with blind dolphins, so they don't see me in my togs.
If you had your pick, who would you bring on holiday with you?If it's Ireland then my husband, Peter, who is a home bird, or, abroad, the girlfriends.
What's your favourite place in Ireland?Castletownshend, in west Cork, where we rented a house two years ago. We brought our two big Labradors. I hate to leave them in kennels, but it's hard to holiday with them in Ireland. There are fantastic restaurants, like Mary Ann's. The people are friendly and dying to talk to you, which is great coming from the city.
Your recommended holiday reading?Always comedy. I read The Two Ronnies Sketchbookon my last holiday, I grew up with them.
Where will you go to next?I will definitely head to London after my shows. I go there a few times a year to see shows, to Camden market and to peoplewatch in Covent Garden. I get great inspiration and ideas from it.
The June Rodgers Christmas Show is at the Red Cow Moran Hotel, in Dublin, from November 27th until December 31st. 01-4593650, moranhotels.com
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