Lenny Henry: Straight acting is 'a whole new area'

Comedian Lenny Henry has said his straight role in an award-winning West End play has taken him to 'a whole new area'.

He is appearing in August Wilson's production of Fences, playing an American bin man robbed of his dreams.

The challenge of moving into straight acting roles, including playing Othello, is one he said he is relishing.

"Since 2009 it's been a whole new area for me - you have to convince yourself whether you're prepared to do the work," he said.