Hero gets to Art of matter

ONE of television s best loved doctors is returning to what he believes is one of the most exciting places in Britain – the theatre. Art Malik, who played Zubin Kahn in hospital drama Holby City, will be starring in Heroes at the Cambridge Arts Theatre fr

ONE of television's best loved doctors is returning to what he believes is one of the most exciting places in Britain - the theatre.

Art Malik, who played Zubin Kahn in hospital drama Holby City, will be starring in Heroes at the Cambridge Arts Theatre from September 18-23.

The production which won the 2006 Olivier Award for best comedy is set in 1959.

It follows three grumpy First World War veterans in a military hospital.

Art, who plays the role of Phillipe, said he was attracted to the script because it was funny and made him turn the page.

He said: "The men sit on the terrace day in day out, and create wonderful friendships because they care about each other.

"The brilliance of the play is that you know a lot about World War One and its horror is depicted by people who come back and say 'don't ask me anything'."

The production is adapted by Tom Stoppard, with whom Art has worked on a number of occasions, including Indian Ink.

Art, who will be starring alongside Christopher Timothy (All Creatures Great and Small) and Michael Jayston (Nicholas and Alexandra, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy) said: "Tom understands the English language so well and makes it into a tune."

Art, 53, said it was nice to return to theatre.

"Working in theatre you get one thing you will never get while working on a feature film," he said.

"You get an immediate response from the audience. It is one of the most exciting places in Britain.

"The building is only really doing anything when the audience is in there."

Since graduating from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Art has appeared in numerous films, theatre productions and television dramas, including True Lies, Clockwork Mice, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Kavanagh QC, and Great Expectations.

"It's brilliant that I have had the opportunity to go from one job to another and do something that introduces me to another audience," he said.

Art's first professional role was in a film called Meetings With Remarkable Men, directed by Peter Brooke.

"It was scary. When I got to take seven I never thought I would make it as an actor," he said.

Art, who was born in Pakistan, said his two-and-a-half-year role in Holby City was particularly challenging because of the medical terminology he had to use.

He said: "It doesn't matter whether it's theatre, television or film, I just love it when a good script comes through the door."

Performances to Art's forthcoming production will begin at 7.45pm and 2.30pm and Thursdays and Saturdays. Tickets are available from the Box Office on 01223 503333 and range from £10-£27.

Art said: "I hope the audience gets involved and they enjoy it for what it is.