Witch Joanna casts her spell

John Dempsey and Dana Rowe adapted the Witches Of Eastwick but they stumbled on the idea by chance.

It was at the bottom of a long list of Hollywood movies up for grabs. They liked it because it has strong lead characters and lends itself to being a musical movie.

It's wacky, a bonkers fantasy. The film was too serious in the second half and far too black but we emphasise the craziness which makes you want to have a riot.

My character Jane was played by Susan Sarandon in the film. She's sexually repressed and shy whereas I'm acerbic but not so sure with men. They've altered it slightly so now Suki (Friedman) has some of my timidity.

Ian McShane is perfectly cast as Daryl Van Horne. He's lascivious, mischievous and a real rogue. I don't know why Ian hasn't sung before because he's like Mr Entertainment. He does some speak-song stuff but he does have a versatile voice. I know there are loads of musicals around but I hope we'll be a breath of fresh air.

At least it's not another French tragedy. Audiences seem to be bored with those. The Witches is a huge spectacular, it's black, funny and not taking itself seriously although the presentation is very professional. So far reactions have been good. It seems well cast, brilliantly designed - and John and Dana have done a terrific job with the book. It's also raunchy and sexy - very naughty. There's no nudity but lots of sexy gear and saucy bits. After all, the subject is sex and with McShane around... I mean I get off with Ian McShane eight times a week. I can live with that.