Jennifer Saunders on The Sea, lines and Dawn French's visit

Jennifer Saunders has spoken about her current role in Edward Bond's The Sea at Bath Theatre Royal, describing the production as an eccentric and dark historic saga. The actor and comedian is appearing in the revival, which runs until 7 November.

In an interview, Saunders said she was worried about the volume of lines, which she said was more than she would normally cope with. She added that the lines made sense and the play was beautifully written, which helped her learn them. She also said the production includes a bit of singing, which she called 'very bad'.

Saunders said she performs alongside Lucy Briers, calling their partnership 'a little double act'. She said some friends had joked they would not come, but Dawn French is due next week and Ade has already seen the first preview. She said getting his verdict was nerve-wracking, and that he enjoyed it and found it quite different.

She compared her character, Mrs Rafi, to Edina Monsoon, saying she is not a million miles away because she is an eccentric and powerful eccentric. Saunders said she is drawn to those kinds of characters. The play is described as weird, eccentric and great.