IT'S hard to mention the name Gemma Craven without thinking of the 70s Potter classic, Pennies From Heaven. But you need make no apologies for that to the raven-haired actress. "I'm not worried at all that people still associate me with that," she declares. "It was a fantastic series - my only regret is that they haven't repeated it! "When Denis Potter died they showed everything else he'd done but NOT that - and I so wish they would." Gemma is taking time out of rehearsals for Copacabana, the now famous Barry Manilow musical about showgirl, Lola. It's a show Gemma has performed in once before - but this time things are different. Chances are this will be the star's musical swan song. "I have decided that this will be my last musical," she says. "I want to do more television again, maybe go into drama or comedy. "Besides which, I was 53 recently and, eventually you become a bit tired of skipping up and down the country living out of a suitcase." With Copacabana, it also gives Gemma the chance to work again. She readily admits she has been out of work for a year: "It's the longest time I have ever been out of work. "I didn't choose to have a year out, it just happened that way." Instead, Gemma spent more time with her partner, Lord Odin, enjoying holidays away and long walks: "Although what he calls a gentle walk is more like a hill climb to me," she laughs. "But it was lovely to be able to relax for a while." No relaxing now, though. Copacabana obviously met with her approval and Gemma is happy to make it the final curtain call in her musical career. "It's like going to a Las Vegas show. "Just get to the theatre, order a couple of Pina Coladas and be entertained." Gemma plays Conchita Alvarez, who gets jealous when Lola arrives on the scene. "It's a great part, she's a real cuban diva and really funny. "It's a fantastic musical, and one that will really get you humming the tunes. It's the same for us, you get home at night, put your head on the pillow and it starts... that tune!" * Copacabana - The Liverpool Empire Theatre, July 1-12. For tickets call Ticketmaster on 0870 606 3536. | 
