It was that time when you might start to flag, as you edge closer to the end of the working day. British naturalist, explorer, presenter and writer Steve informed me he’d been in London all day, doing various press interviews so I might have expected him to approach our chat about his critically acclaimed live show – ‘Ocean’ - which heads to Wolverhampton Civic in October, with an air of weariness. And yet it soon became clear that wouldn’t be the case.
The very mention of oceans and his forthcoming tour and his passion oozed through. It quickly became clear why people love Steve’s show – he had sold-out tours in 2022 and 2023. His personality is infectious and that love of the ocean comes through in his conversation.
The show is described as Steve’s ‘love letter’ to the ocean and his chance to educate audiences on some of its most fascinating features and wildlife, while telling us what we need to do to protect and save our seas. “I can’t wait to come to the West Midlands again,” he enthuses. “My mum (Pat) is from Harborne, in Birmingham.
“She was born and brought up there and a lot of her family are still around the area. My mum always talks about the West Midlands as the most friendly place on the planet so I love coming back.” As someone who works a lot in television, heading to the stage is something that also excites Steve, he says, as he loves to draw energy from those attending his show.
“A live audience is a learning experience,” h.