From werewolves to the Leveson Inquiry, there are plenty of reasons Chicago star Ali Bastian is oozing with Razzle Dazzle. Chris Price found out more.

There are ups and downs in any career but there always seems to be a gloss on everything Ali Bastian does. Her latest role as Roxy Hart in the UK tour of Chicago is yet another accolade on a CV which has seen her make the move from screen to stage star with ease.

The ex-Hollyoaks and The Bill actress is also hitting the big screen in her first film role, as a gun-wielding lap dancer in British B-movie Strippers vs Werewolves.

As if the former Strictly Come Dancing contestant wasn’t on target enough, she even thinks the Leveson Inquiry is having a positive impact on her work. Its revelations about prominent figures and their relationship with the media throws up parallels with Chicago, which is based on the true story of two women who try to manipulate the media to avoid death row in the 1920s.

“It was interesting when auditioning for Chicago because it was as if the whole thing was being serialised on TV,” said Ali, 30, who stars alongside Coronation Street actress Tupele Dorgu as Velma Kelly, ex-Hollyoaks co-star and EastEnders actor Stefan Booth as Billy Flyn and Bernie Nolan as Mama Morton.

“Obviously, as an actress you have to know the background and this is a true story based on real women, which is relevant today. These women were both guilty and they found a way to manipulate the media to become celebrities and get off.”

Earlier in the tour Ali was forced to miss a few shows after picking up a bug and when we speak was still feeling the effects.

“I had bronchitis but I am a lot better now,” she said. “You have to pay for this job. It is such a full-on role so I am having to live like a nun.

“I’m eating and sleeping well and I’m not going out. When I am not on stage I am resting. It is such a demanding role so it is important to pace yourself. I’m being Captain Sensible.”

Chicago is Ali’s first foray into musicals although her stage return came last year in a tour of Agatha Christie’s Verdict. Yet she has not given up on TV work.

“I’m lucky to have the chance to do both. In this climate you have to be versatile so it is great if you can dip in and out of each. TV is fun but nothing beats a live audience and performing every night.”

Chicago starring Ali Bastian runs at Tunbridge Wells’ Assembly Hall Theatre from Monday, May 7, to Saturday, May 12. Tickets £18 to £35. Box office 01892 530613. The show visits Canterbury’s Marlowe Theatre later in the year, from Monday, November 12, to Saturday, November 17. Tickets £9.25 to £41. Box office 01227 787787.