Michael Ball recalls starting his career busking
Singer and broadcaster Michael Ball reflects on his early career, noting that he began as a busker in Guildford before finding success in West End musicals like Les Misérables. He currently hosts a radio show on BBC Radio 2, aiming to provide a positive environment for listeners.
Why it matters
Provides cultural insight into the career trajectory of a prominent UK entertainment figure.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Chrissie Reidy , in Brighton and Stuart Maisner , South East BBC Michael Ball was a drama student in Guildford in the early 1980s Singer and broadcaster Michael Ball has described how his first public performances were busking as a student.
The West End star and radio presenter said he used to sing in an underpass in Guildford, Surrey, while at drama school.
Ball said that, despite learning acting, "I guess I had a voice".
Speaking to BBC South East, ahead of a performance in Brighton on his current tour, he said: "I never had any music training."
Within months of leaving drama school, Ball landed a part in London for the debut of one of the most famous musicals of all time, Les Misérables.
He said: "I went for an audition for a brand-new musical at the RSC [Royal Shakespeare Company].
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