Interview: Dame Joan Collins speaks ahead of Shrewsbury and Birmingham theatre appearances

This all-new show provides fans with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend an intimate, entertaining and unforgettable evening in the company of a true Hollywood legend.

The actress, philanthropist and best-selling author is visiting 12 towns and cities across the UK – including Shrewsbury's Theatre Severn last Tuesday and Birmingham Town Hall on September 26.

Dame Joan said: "Well the show is called Joan Collins Unscripted and that is exactly what it will be. We go on stage each night with a blank sheet and that will lead to a different show each night.

"It's going to be an intimate, hilarious and wonderfully stylish night with me, Percy and a few hundred dear friends reliving some great stories, great times and some of the fascinating people I've met along the way.

"In my shows I like to joke about everything – my men, my marriages, my life. Nothing is off limits… within reason!

"I so enjoyed my 10 years performing One Night with Joan all over the world that I am delighted to be doing an entirely new show.

"Each performance will be different so if you like me in Salford come see me in London…and if you don't then stay at home and watch Corrie!"

Joan's husband Percy has been labelled as 'the greatest love of Joan's life'. He will be appearing on stage with her on the tour and his support is very important.

Joan added: "We simply love being with each other.

"Myself and Percy are soulmates – we like the same things, we laugh at the same things and that is so important.

"You could say I kissed a lot of frogs along the way, but I finally found the prince!

"It is totally a love match, but also a friends match so having him alongside me each night as we tour the country, playing to such wonderful audiences, will be a special moment for use both. We cannot wait." Dame Joan has had an amazing career and has plenty of hilarious anecdotes left in reserve. Some of her former co-stars might be worried.

Dame Joan laughs: "Well it depends if they've got a sense of humour or not... and of course some of them are dead!

"I'm English born and bred and that is in my DNA. I love the London parks, the greenery of the countryside, the London taxis, the morning papers delivered to your door and the cultural and social buzz of the city."

The theatre holds special memories. "It certainly does. As a kid I used to go to the London Palladium often with my father and see variety shows. I remember seeing Johnny Ray there, Arthur Askey, Tommy Cooper – all those people that I love. I love variety.

"The British theatre is steeped in history, tradition and fun. There are so many venues I have loved performing at down the years and this tour is going to be very special.

"I have never shirked putting the hours in."

By Andy Richardson