Maggie Smith was a constant in the life of producer Robert Fox for half a century. She could “make grown men cry,” says Fox, because “if you weren’t 100 percent on top of your game, you were dead in the water, and she was right.”
Fox produced Dame Maggie in some of her greatest stage hits from Peter Shaffer’s Lettice and Lovage to David Hare’s The Breath of Life, in which she and her best friend, Judi Dench, shared top billing at London’s Theatre Royal Haymarket.
Dame Judi got the No. 1 dressing room. “But Maggie wasn’t fussed because she joked that Judi, she’d say, “had all those people in from Surrey to see her, so she needs the space.’ She wasn’t at all unhappy about it. She’d watch all of Judi’s guests troop in to see her. She’d say: ‘Look, there they go.
Fox produced Dame Maggie in some of her greatest stage hits from Peter Shaffer’s Lettice and Lovage to David Hare’s The Breath of Life, in which she and her best friend, Judi Dench, shared top billing at London’s Theatre Royal Haymarket.
Dame Judi got the No. 1 dressing room. “But Maggie wasn’t fussed because she joked that Judi, she’d say, “had all those people in from Surrey to see her, so she needs the space.’ She wasn’t at all unhappy about it. She’d watch all of Judi’s guests troop in to see her. She’d say: ‘Look, there they go.
- 9/27/2024
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Dame Maggie Smith, the British actress who starred in Harry Potter films, the wildly popular Downton Abbey series and scores of other movies, TV shows, West End and Broadway productions in a career that brought two Oscars, five BAFTAs, four Emmys and a Tony Award, died today. She was 89.
Smith’s death was confirmed by her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin. In a statement shared with UK media, they said: “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
Smith was one of the finest British screen and stage stars of her generation and will be remembered for her performances in iconic films and TV shows, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. Her...
Smith’s death was confirmed by her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin. In a statement shared with UK media, they said: “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
Smith was one of the finest British screen and stage stars of her generation and will be remembered for her performances in iconic films and TV shows, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. Her...
- 9/27/2024
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
In my other life, I am an Ancient History lecturer at a UK university, which means I am often giving my students recommendations for films and TV shows to watch about Ancient Rome. None of them are especially historically accurate (a totally historically accurate film would probably be a boring film) but as long as you don’t take anything in them too literally, they are a nice introduction to the world of ancient Rome. Gladiator might make Rome a Republic again about 1600 years too early, but it shows how the Colosseum functioned, trapdoors and all, very well. The Eagle’s history of the Ninth Legion and depiction of Iron Age Picts might be a bit iffy, but it gives you a taste of life in the Roman provinces. You get the idea.
TV shows are particularly useful for getting to grips with a large cast of characters and learning...
TV shows are particularly useful for getting to grips with a large cast of characters and learning...
- 8/22/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
The First Churchills.
Kieran Kinsella
We’re all familiar with Winston but how many of us know much about The First Churchills? Well for those who don’t know, Britain’s war-time Pm traced his lineage back to the court of King Charles II, and the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough Aka The First Churchills. The cigar smoking nemesis of the Nazis wrote a biography of his aristocratic ancestors and in 1969 the BBC dramatized the story. The 12 part series was an instant success. Drama starved executives on the other side of the pond soon snapped it up and began airing it on PBS in a new time slot called Masterpiece Theatre. Yes British TV watchers, The First Churchills isn’t just about English history it is also a landmark series in the British invasion of American networks. On 4 June, Acorn Media are reviving this lost classic on DVD.
Three-time Emmy...
Kieran Kinsella
We’re all familiar with Winston but how many of us know much about The First Churchills? Well for those who don’t know, Britain’s war-time Pm traced his lineage back to the court of King Charles II, and the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough Aka The First Churchills. The cigar smoking nemesis of the Nazis wrote a biography of his aristocratic ancestors and in 1969 the BBC dramatized the story. The 12 part series was an instant success. Drama starved executives on the other side of the pond soon snapped it up and began airing it on PBS in a new time slot called Masterpiece Theatre. Yes British TV watchers, The First Churchills isn’t just about English history it is also a landmark series in the British invasion of American networks. On 4 June, Acorn Media are reviving this lost classic on DVD.
Three-time Emmy...
- 5/31/2013
- by Edited by K Kinsella
The setting's Provence, but the humour is brittle, British and with a tang of poison
Edward St Aubyn has co-written this movie adaptation of his Booker-shortlisted autobiographical novel Mother's Milk, directed by Gerry Fox. The result looks a bit like television, though it isn't bad: sparky, boisterous, cynical, a little self-conscious but more grownup and literate than most new British movies. Jack Davenport makes the most of a juicy lead role as Patrick Melrose, a cynical, upper-middle-class Englishman deeply angry with his ageing mother, played by the now late Margaret Tyzack, in her final role. She has, in her dotage, agreed to gift the family's beautiful Provençal house to a dodgy guy called Seamus Dorke (Adrian Dunbar) as the HQ for his new age therapies. Patrick is taking his family for one final holiday in this idyllic place, for a last painful interview with his mother, who is in a nursing home nearby,...
Edward St Aubyn has co-written this movie adaptation of his Booker-shortlisted autobiographical novel Mother's Milk, directed by Gerry Fox. The result looks a bit like television, though it isn't bad: sparky, boisterous, cynical, a little self-conscious but more grownup and literate than most new British movies. Jack Davenport makes the most of a juicy lead role as Patrick Melrose, a cynical, upper-middle-class Englishman deeply angry with his ageing mother, played by the now late Margaret Tyzack, in her final role. She has, in her dotage, agreed to gift the family's beautiful Provençal house to a dodgy guy called Seamus Dorke (Adrian Dunbar) as the HQ for his new age therapies. Patrick is taking his family for one final holiday in this idyllic place, for a last painful interview with his mother, who is in a nursing home nearby,...
- 11/9/2012
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
The inspirational voice coach Elizabeth Pursey has died aged 89. Elizabeth had a long teaching association with the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. From the late 1970s, she also worked on many significant films, including The Unbearable Lightness of Being (1988) with Daniel Day-Lewis, who so valued her guidance in pre-production that she was brought in to work with the film's other actors during its shoot in France.
She was born Elizabeth Watson in Ramsgate. Her family moved to Ilford, east London, where she attended Ursuline high school. She gained a place at Rada but her father's declining health, after sustaining serious injuries in the first world war, meant that she did not take up the offer. Elizabeth wanted to join the Land Army during the second world war, but instead worked on a production line.
She returned to the Ursulines as a teacher, most notably at St Angela's school in Forest Gate,...
She was born Elizabeth Watson in Ramsgate. Her family moved to Ilford, east London, where she attended Ursuline high school. She gained a place at Rada but her father's declining health, after sustaining serious injuries in the first world war, meant that she did not take up the offer. Elizabeth wanted to join the Land Army during the second world war, but instead worked on a production line.
She returned to the Ursulines as a teacher, most notably at St Angela's school in Forest Gate,...
- 2/20/2012
- The Guardian - Film News
Dame Maggie Attends Tyzack Memorial Service
Actress Dame Maggie Smith and playwright Alan Bennett were among the mourners who gathered in London on Saturday to pay tribute to late British star Margaret Tyzack.
The revered actress, best known for her role as Winifred on U.K. TV's The Forsyte Saga, passed away on 25 June following a short illness, and a memorial service was held in her honour at the Church of St. Michael and All Angels in Blackheath.
Friends and former colleagues joined Tyzack's grieving family at the ceremony, where Sir Nicholas Hytner, the artistic director of the National Theatre, and actress Frances De La Tour both addressed the crowd.
The revered actress, best known for her role as Winifred on U.K. TV's The Forsyte Saga, passed away on 25 June following a short illness, and a memorial service was held in her honour at the Church of St. Michael and All Angels in Blackheath.
Friends and former colleagues joined Tyzack's grieving family at the ceremony, where Sir Nicholas Hytner, the artistic director of the National Theatre, and actress Frances De La Tour both addressed the crowd.
- 7/25/2011
- WENN
In case you missed them, here are the 15 most popular topics over the past week at We Love Soaps TV:
1. We Love Soaps TV 2.86 A Minute with Olivia Newton-John
2. News: Trevor St. John, Kelli Giddish, Dark Shadows, Margaret Tyzack
3. News: Joseph Mascolo, Deidre Hall, Terry Pheto, Rob Bogue
4. News: Days Goes To The Movies, Telemundo, Teen Choice Awards
5. News: Jessica Collins Joins Y&R, America Ferrera Married
6. Playgirl Going All-Web
7. News: Erin Torpey, Bren Foster, Kenyan Soap, Alan Ball
8. News: B&B Gets Fashion Makeover, Michael Corbett, Hulu, Kutcher
9.
News: Joanna Johnson Visits B&B, Marcy Rylan, 50 Gayest Ads
10. Anthony Herrera Has Passed Away At Age 67
11. We Love Soaps TV 2.88 One Life To Live at the Daytime Emmys
12. Flashback: The Story of General Hospital, Part 1
13. Soap Community Reacts To Marriage Equality In New York
14. We Love Soaps TV 2.84 The Young And The Restless at the Daytime Emmys
15. Mflashback: The Story of General Hospital,...
1. We Love Soaps TV 2.86 A Minute with Olivia Newton-John
2. News: Trevor St. John, Kelli Giddish, Dark Shadows, Margaret Tyzack
3. News: Joseph Mascolo, Deidre Hall, Terry Pheto, Rob Bogue
4. News: Days Goes To The Movies, Telemundo, Teen Choice Awards
5. News: Jessica Collins Joins Y&R, America Ferrera Married
6. Playgirl Going All-Web
7. News: Erin Torpey, Bren Foster, Kenyan Soap, Alan Ball
8. News: B&B Gets Fashion Makeover, Michael Corbett, Hulu, Kutcher
9.
News: Joanna Johnson Visits B&B, Marcy Rylan, 50 Gayest Ads
10. Anthony Herrera Has Passed Away At Age 67
11. We Love Soaps TV 2.88 One Life To Live at the Daytime Emmys
12. Flashback: The Story of General Hospital, Part 1
13. Soap Community Reacts To Marriage Equality In New York
14. We Love Soaps TV 2.84 The Young And The Restless at the Daytime Emmys
15. Mflashback: The Story of General Hospital,...
- 7/3/2011
- by We Love Soaps TV
- We Love Soaps
"Ah, the pungent odor, the fermented esprit, the sulfurous insanity of the New York Asian Film Fest!" exclaims Michael Atkinson, introducing his overview of the lineup in the Voice. "It's a new year for the city's favorite attack of the imported-irrational, and as always, the jejune state of the late-spring/early-summer box office gets a shot in the ass. The pulp is especially ripe this year, particularly from Japan, where manga-ness seems to have gone from a national pastime to a mass psychosis."
For R Emmet Sweeney, writing for TCM, "most of the revelations in this year's slate came in the Nyaff sidebar, Sea of Revenge: New Korean Thrillers, so I'll focus there." Michael J Anderson splits the difference, concentrating on Takashi Miike's Ninja Kids!!! and Na Hong-jin's The Chaser (image above). Time Out New York's got a slide of "titles worth cutting class for." Cinespect's Ryan Wells picks...
For R Emmet Sweeney, writing for TCM, "most of the revelations in this year's slate came in the Nyaff sidebar, Sea of Revenge: New Korean Thrillers, so I'll focus there." Michael J Anderson splits the difference, concentrating on Takashi Miike's Ninja Kids!!! and Na Hong-jin's The Chaser (image above). Time Out New York's got a slide of "titles worth cutting class for." Cinespect's Ryan Wells picks...
- 6/30/2011
- MUBI
One of Britain's most distinguished actors, known for her roles on stage and screen
Margaret Tyzack, who has died aged 79, was one of Britain's greatest and most popular actors, working on stage, television and film for more than half a century. Sometimes described as being in the mould of Edith Evans and Flora Robson, she will be remembered particularly for performances in the golden age of BBC TV drama – Winifred in The Forsyte Saga (1967), Antonia in I, Claudius (1976) – as well as for stage performances such as Martha in the National Theatre's revival of Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf (1981), for which she won an Olivier award for best actress, and Lottie with Maggie Smith in Lettice and Lovage (1987 and 1990), which earned her both Tony and Variety Club stage actress of the year awards. In 2008, well into her 70s, she scored perhaps one of her finest triumphs on stage as the wily,...
Margaret Tyzack, who has died aged 79, was one of Britain's greatest and most popular actors, working on stage, television and film for more than half a century. Sometimes described as being in the mould of Edith Evans and Flora Robson, she will be remembered particularly for performances in the golden age of BBC TV drama – Winifred in The Forsyte Saga (1967), Antonia in I, Claudius (1976) – as well as for stage performances such as Martha in the National Theatre's revival of Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf (1981), for which she won an Olivier award for best actress, and Lottie with Maggie Smith in Lettice and Lovage (1987 and 1990), which earned her both Tony and Variety Club stage actress of the year awards. In 2008, well into her 70s, she scored perhaps one of her finest triumphs on stage as the wily,...
- 6/28/2011
- by Carole Woddis
- The Guardian - Film News
Trevor St. John blogs about leaving One Life To Live early
"I want to let you know that my current contract on One Life To Live is coming to an end and my last shooting day on the show will likely come the week of July 18th. Although I expressed an interest in continuing to perform on the show beyond the aforementioned date the producers have decided they'd rather press on without me. To be clear, I was not fired. But the producers feel it's in the show's best interest not to write any more story for my character."
Johnny Depp to shoot film at Trl in Crowthorne
Depp is reportedly coming to Crowthorne to film his latest movie Dark Shadows. Work on the exterior set at Bourne Woods in Surrey is almost finished and the Pirates of the Caribbean actor is expected to started filming at the Transport Research...
"I want to let you know that my current contract on One Life To Live is coming to an end and my last shooting day on the show will likely come the week of July 18th. Although I expressed an interest in continuing to perform on the show beyond the aforementioned date the producers have decided they'd rather press on without me. To be clear, I was not fired. But the producers feel it's in the show's best interest not to write any more story for my character."
Johnny Depp to shoot film at Trl in Crowthorne
Depp is reportedly coming to Crowthorne to film his latest movie Dark Shadows. Work on the exterior set at Bourne Woods in Surrey is almost finished and the Pirates of the Caribbean actor is expected to started filming at the Transport Research...
- 6/28/2011
- by We Love Soaps TV
- We Love Soaps
British Actress Tyzack Dies
Revered British actress Margaret Tyzack has passed away following a short illness. She was 79.
The star, who is believed to have had cancer, died "peacefully at home" on Saturday, according to her agent.
Tyzack was an established classical stage actress and won two Olivier awards and a Tony award for her work. She is best known for her role as Winifred on U.K. TV's The Forsyte Saga.
She played Sir Derek Jacobi's mother Antonia in I, Claudius and starred in two Stanley Kubrick films, 2001: A Space Odyssey and A Clockwork Orange.
Tyzack appeared in Britain's long-running soap Eastenders in April, but had to drop out due to health reasons.
She was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1970 and became Commander of the Order of the British Empire (Cbe) in the 2010 New Year Honours.
The star, who is believed to have had cancer, died "peacefully at home" on Saturday, according to her agent.
Tyzack was an established classical stage actress and won two Olivier awards and a Tony award for her work. She is best known for her role as Winifred on U.K. TV's The Forsyte Saga.
She played Sir Derek Jacobi's mother Antonia in I, Claudius and starred in two Stanley Kubrick films, 2001: A Space Odyssey and A Clockwork Orange.
Tyzack appeared in Britain's long-running soap Eastenders in April, but had to drop out due to health reasons.
She was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1970 and became Commander of the Order of the British Empire (Cbe) in the 2010 New Year Honours.
- 6/28/2011
- WENN
Margaret Tyzack has died at the age of 79. The veteran actress of the stage and screen passed away peacefully surrounded by family at her home on Saturday. She was believed to be suffering from cancer, reports BBC News. Tyzack's agent said in a statement that the actress would be remembered for "her outstanding contribution to the world of theatre, film and television and for the support and inspiration she gave to young actors". "Maggie faced her illness with the strength, courage, dignity and even humour with which she lived her life," her agent added. Tyzack made her name playing Winifred in the 1967 BBC adaptation of Victorian drama The Forsyte Saga and (more)...
- 6/27/2011
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
'EastEnders' Janine Malloy will be devastated when her grandmother dies and her long-long uncle tries to contest the will. The Walford schemer - played by Charlie Brooks - has recently reunited with her mum's mother Lydia Simmonds after years apart and while Janine will struggle to cope when her beloved nan (played by Margaret Tyzack) dies tomorrow night (13.06.11), the arrival of Janine's uncle Norman Simmonds (George Layton) will be another blow. This is the latest in a series of upsets for Janine, who poisoned her husband Ryan (Neil McDermott) after discovering he was secretly seeing Stacey Branning, the mother of his...
- 6/12/2011
- Virgin Media - TV
'EastEnders' Janine Malloy will be devastated when her grandmother dies and her long-long uncle tries to contest the will. The Walford schemer - played by Charlie Brooks - has recently reunited with her mum's mother Lydia Simmonds after years apart and while Janine will struggle to cope when her beloved nan (played by Margaret Tyzack) dies tomorrow night (13.06.11), the arrival of Janine's uncle Norman Simmonds (George Layton) will be another blow. This is the latest in a series of upsets for Janine, who poisoned her husband Ryan (Neil McDermott) after discovering he was secretly seeing Stacey Branning, the mother of his...
- 6/9/2011
- Virgin Media - TV
Janine Malloy is to find herself at the centre of false accusations when she is blamed for her grandmother's death. The devious diva - played by Charlie Brooks - will have finally got close to Lydia Simmonds (Margaret Tyzack) when she tragically passes away in her sleep. Despite being devastated at her granny's death, the finger will quickly point to Janine, with Walford whisperer Pat Butcher (Pam St. Clement) suggesting she murdered the pensioner to get her hands on her cash. Charlie explained: "Pat accuses Janine of causing Lydia's death! Janine's hurt, but nonchalant - it's only what she'd expect from Pat." However, Pat...
- 6/8/2011
- Virgin Media - TV
EastEnders star Margaret Tyzack has withdrawn from filming for personal reasons, forcing show bosses to recast the character of Lydia Simmonds, Digital Spy can confirm. Earlier this year, it was announced that stage star Tyzack had been cast in the role of Lydia, who is Janine Malloy's estranged grandmother. Viewers saw her on screen for the first time last week as Janine (Charlie Brooks) visited her gran in hospital after hearing that she was unwell. However, following Tyzack's unexpected departure from the soap, programme chiefs have recruited actress Heather Chasen to take over the part. Chasen has appeared in a number of TV roles since the 1960s, including appearances in Z Cars, Young Sherlock, The Bill, Casualty and Doctors. (more)...
- 4/12/2011
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
EastEnders star Charlie Brooks has praised the decision to introduce her character's twisted grandmother to Albert Square. Earlier this year, it was announced that stage actress Margaret Tyzack had been cast as Janine Malloy's gran Lydia Simmonds, a woman with a reputation for nasty behaviour among her neighbours. In an interview with Inside Soap, Brooks revealed that she was excited when she heard the family reunion was in store - especially as Janine is currently feeling isolated on the Square following her split from husband Ryan and her troubles with Whitney. Brooks told the magazine: "Janine's really lonely. I was pleased when I got told about this storyline, actually, as we get to see a totally different side to Janine. "There are quite a few emotions in play, so it's great for me as an actress. I was so excited about getting (more)...
- 3/29/2011
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Former EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has predicted that Margaret Tyzack will be "fantastic" in her new role on the soap. Last week, it was announced that the veteran stage actress had been cast as Janine Malloy's estranged grandmother Lydia Simmonds, who will appear on screen for the first time later this year. Show bosses have confirmed that Lydia has a reputation for nasty behaviour among her neighbours, meaning that she will have something in common with Janine when they are reunited. Writing in her New magazine column, Cassidy commented: "Margaret Tyzack is joining EastEnders (more)...
- 2/22/2011
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Stage star Margaret Tyzack has joined the cast of EastEnders, taking on the role of Janine Malloy's maternal grandmother Lydia Simmonds. The 79-year-old actress will appear on the Walford soap for the first time in April, when Lydia comes face-to-face with Janine following years of estrangement between the pair. Tension within the family dates back to when Janine's mother June embarked on a relationship with Frank Butcher, angering Lydia - who believed that "common as muck" Frank was not good enough for her daughter. Lydia was "a lady of class and dignity" at the time of the family feud, but she now has a reputation for nasty behaviour in her neighbourhood which makes people do their best to avoid her. As Janine and Lydia become part of each other's lives, viewers will be left to wonder whether a happy family reunion is on the cards or (more)...
- 2/15/2011
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
• Actor Patrick Stewart and director Nicholas Hytner received knighthoods today from Queen Elizabeth II as part of her honors list. Said two-time Olivier winner Sir Patrick, "This is an honor that embraces those actors, directors and creative teams who have in these recent years helped fill my life with inspiration, companionship and sheer fun." The Tony-winning Sir Nicholas, artistic director of Britain's National Theatre, said he was "honored and flattered." And two-time Olivier winner Margaret Tyzack said she was "delighted" to be appointed a commander of the Order of the British Empire. BBC • Lincoln Tan chats with Peter Jackson about being named a knight companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for "continuing to excel in and significantly contribute to the New Zealand film industry." The onetime British colony replaced honors like those mentioned above from the queen with a homegrown version in 2000. Said Jackson, "This is an incredible moment in my life.
- 1/3/2010
- by tomoneil
- Gold Derby
Coming to you weekly from my vantage point in good old Blighty, it’s Slashfilm UK. Anglos and Anglophiles rejoice as every Friday I’ll be bringing you a round up of news, links and coverage specific to the motion picture comings and goings here in the UK. Well, except for this Friday because hardlty anything has happened. This week, then, a special edition that covers the film folk recognised in The Queen's New Year's Honours and then, my pick of the best films of 2009. The New Year’s Honours for the year have been unveiled, and here’s a quick list of the film folk to get the nod: Phyllida Lloyd, director of Mamma Mia Tessa Ross, Channel 4 director of film and drama Actress Margaret Tyzack, from 2001 and A Clockwork Orange Patrick Stewart, Star Trek, X-Men and RSC actor Nicholas Hytner, director of The Crucible and The Madness of King George Graham King,...
- 1/1/2010
- by Brendon Connelly
- Slash Film
London – There's an especially starry knight in Britain's latest round of royal honors.Patrick Stewart — "Star Trek: The Next Generation's" Capt. Jean-Luc Picard — becomes Sir Patrick in Queen Elizabeth II's New Year honors list, which also includes a knighthood for theater and film director Nicholas Hytner."This is an honor that embraces those actors, directors and creative teams who have in these recent years helped fill my life with inspiration, companionship and sheer fun," said 69-year-old Stewart, who recently returned to the British stage following a long career in Hollywood that included playing Professor Charles Xavier in three "X-Men" films.Erich Reich, a refugee from Nazi-occupied Europe who organized last year's 70th anniversary of the "Kindertransport," which brought 10,000 children to wartime Britain, also received a knighthood.A separate honors list in New Zealand bestowed a knighthood on the king of Middle Earth — "Lord of the Rings" filmmaker Peter Jackson.
- 12/31/2009
- backstage.com
Steppenwolf Theatre is pleased to present the exclusive Chicago screening of the National Theatre of London's performance of PHÈDRE starring Helen Mirren, Dominic Cooper and Margaret Tyzack on Monday, July 13 at 7:30 p.m. in Steppenwolf's Downstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St. PHÈDRE is written by Jean Racine, adapted by Ted Hughes and directed by National Theatre Director Nicholas Hytner. The filmed version of this classic play will also include a behind-the-scenes feature at the National Theatre.
- 6/11/2009
- BroadwayWorld.com
The Olivier Awards -- London's equivalent to the Tony Awards -- were dominated by home-grown winners when the 33rd edition of the kudos unwrapped Sunday night in an event hosted by James Nesbitt at Grosvenor House.
Only one of the top awards went to an American production, as the 2006 Tony best musical champ "Jersey Boys" took the tuner prize. The show, which recounts the story of the Four Seasons using their songs, prevailed against only one other contender -- "Zorro," a telling of the old tale set to the music of the Gipsy Kings.
The 2008 Tony-winning best play "August: Osage County" was bested by Gregory Burke's drama "Black Watch," while its leading lady -- the Tony-winning Deanna Dunagan -- lost to Margaret Tyzack for a revival of "The Chalk Garden." That production of the 1955 Enid Bagnold psychological drama, which also won lighting design, originated at the Donmar Warehouse. That...
Only one of the top awards went to an American production, as the 2006 Tony best musical champ "Jersey Boys" took the tuner prize. The show, which recounts the story of the Four Seasons using their songs, prevailed against only one other contender -- "Zorro," a telling of the old tale set to the music of the Gipsy Kings.
The 2008 Tony-winning best play "August: Osage County" was bested by Gregory Burke's drama "Black Watch," while its leading lady -- the Tony-winning Deanna Dunagan -- lost to Margaret Tyzack for a revival of "The Chalk Garden." That production of the 1955 Enid Bagnold psychological drama, which also won lighting design, originated at the Donmar Warehouse. That...
- 3/9/2009
- by tomoneil
- Gold Derby
Stewart Wins Third Olivier Award
Veteran actor Patrick Stewart has won his third Laurence Olivier award for his stage portrayal of Claudius in Shakespeare's Hamlet.
The X-Men star was handed the Best Performance in a Supporting Role accolade at the 33rd annual theatre prizegiving, honouring London's best stage productions, on Sunday.
Sir Derek Jacobi took home a Best Actor prize for his role of Malvolio in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, with La Cage Aux Folles star Douglas Hodge winning a Best Actor In Musical statuette.
The Best Actress title was given to Margaret Tyzack for her part in The Chalk Garden, while Elena Roger was recognised with the Best Actress In A Musical prize for her portrayal of French singer Edith Piaf in Piaf.
Hollywood star Kevin Spacey, the director of London's Old Vic theatre, was also in attendance to present playwright Sir Alan Ayckbourn
with the Society of London Theatre’s Special Award, which recognises outstanding contribution to the theatre.
The X-Men star was handed the Best Performance in a Supporting Role accolade at the 33rd annual theatre prizegiving, honouring London's best stage productions, on Sunday.
Sir Derek Jacobi took home a Best Actor prize for his role of Malvolio in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, with La Cage Aux Folles star Douglas Hodge winning a Best Actor In Musical statuette.
The Best Actress title was given to Margaret Tyzack for her part in The Chalk Garden, while Elena Roger was recognised with the Best Actress In A Musical prize for her portrayal of French singer Edith Piaf in Piaf.
Hollywood star Kevin Spacey, the director of London's Old Vic theatre, was also in attendance to present playwright Sir Alan Ayckbourn
with the Society of London Theatre’s Special Award, which recognises outstanding contribution to the theatre.
- 3/9/2009
- WENN
London -- Coming to a movie screen near you: National Theatre plays.
The U.K.'s largest circuit of independent cinemas, operated by City Screen, said Tuesday that it has struck a deal with the National Theatre to beam plays live via satellite into movie screens across the country.
The initiative, titled Nt Live, will kick off in June with the Nt's new production, a production of Jean Racine's "Phaedre" that will star Helen Mirren, Margaret Tyzack and Dominic Cooper.
Picturehouse Cinemas, owned and operated by City Screen, will carry the alternative content on select screens. The movie theater operator also said it will sub-license broadcasts to other independent cinemas throughout the U.K., and certain key cities will screen the production through Cineworld and Odeon multiplexes.
The performance of "Phaedre" will be filmed in high-definition and broadcast via satellite to approximately 50 cinemas across the U.K. and 100 worldwide.
The U.K.'s largest circuit of independent cinemas, operated by City Screen, said Tuesday that it has struck a deal with the National Theatre to beam plays live via satellite into movie screens across the country.
The initiative, titled Nt Live, will kick off in June with the Nt's new production, a production of Jean Racine's "Phaedre" that will star Helen Mirren, Margaret Tyzack and Dominic Cooper.
Picturehouse Cinemas, owned and operated by City Screen, will carry the alternative content on select screens. The movie theater operator also said it will sub-license broadcasts to other independent cinemas throughout the U.K., and certain key cities will screen the production through Cineworld and Odeon multiplexes.
The performance of "Phaedre" will be filmed in high-definition and broadcast via satellite to approximately 50 cinemas across the U.K. and 100 worldwide.
- 3/3/2009
- by By Stuart Kemp
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Harry Potter Stars Lead Olivier Nominations
Harry Potter stars Michael Gambon and David Bradley will battle it out for the Best Actor gong at Britain's Laurence Olivier Awards. Gambon, who portrays Professor Dumbledore, and Bradley, who plays caretaker Argus Filch in the wizard franchise, were both nominated for their roles in Harold Pinter play No Man’s Land at the upcoming annual theatre awards.
The actors will compete against Adam Godley for the new London stage adaptation of Rain Man and Derek Jacobi for his role in Twelfth Night.
X-Men star Patrick Stewart is up for Best Performance in a Supporting Role for his role as Claudius in Shakespeare's Hamlet, along with Oliver Ford Davies for the same production, Kevin R McNally for Ivanov and Paul Ritter for The Norman Conquests.
Up for the Best Actress gong are Deanna Dunagan for August: Osage County, Lindsay Duncan for That Face and Margaret Tyzack and Penelope Wilton for their roles in The Chalk Garden.
Rock 'n roll stageshow Jersey Boys and Zorro will fight for the Best New Musical gong at the ceremony, which will be hosted by actor James Nesbitt in London on 8 March.
The actors will compete against Adam Godley for the new London stage adaptation of Rain Man and Derek Jacobi for his role in Twelfth Night.
X-Men star Patrick Stewart is up for Best Performance in a Supporting Role for his role as Claudius in Shakespeare's Hamlet, along with Oliver Ford Davies for the same production, Kevin R McNally for Ivanov and Paul Ritter for The Norman Conquests.
Up for the Best Actress gong are Deanna Dunagan for August: Osage County, Lindsay Duncan for That Face and Margaret Tyzack and Penelope Wilton for their roles in The Chalk Garden.
Rock 'n roll stageshow Jersey Boys and Zorro will fight for the Best New Musical gong at the ceremony, which will be hosted by actor James Nesbitt in London on 8 March.
- 2/3/2009
- WENN
You'll recognize the hair before you recognize the shell-shocked face of Kristin Scott Thomas as she plays Juliette in I've Loved You So Long. Her eyes are ravaged from seeing something no one should have to see. Her mouth is almost desiccated from lack of something — the chance to talk, enjoyment of life, perhaps even nourishment? As the story unfolds, we watch Juliette slowly return to a hint of daily normalcy after 15 years in prison, while we start to guess, and then learn, what she did to her child to land herself there. Some of us have indeed loved Scott Thomas so long. Perhaps it has been since The English Patient, in which she played the roiling-beneath-the-icy-surface Katharine. Perhaps our admiration grew out of Four Weddings and a Funeral, when she stole our hearts as the poshly quippy friend who didn't get the guy. Or, if you noticed her work...
- 12/11/2008
- by Dany Margolies
- backstage.com
Spacey Praised For Turning Around West End Theatre
Hollywood actor/director Kevin Spacey has been hailed for his work in London's West End at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards.
The American Beauty star, who has served as artistic director at the capital's Old Vic Theatre for the last five years, was praised for his part in reviving Alan Ayckbourn's The Norman Conquests.
Speaking of his pride at being involved with the theatre, he said: "I can't quite believe what has happened to the Old Vic."
He recalled how, at the beginning of his tenure, some critics were "asking me to pack my bags and get the hell out of town" - but he refused and told his staff that "if we kept our heads down, kept focused on the vision, we would eventually emerge and establish ourselves".
And English theatre director Sir Peter Hall was also full of compliments for Spacey: "(He's a) great actor, great director, and I think, now, great theatre runner."
Spacey was also applauded for his performance alongside Jeff Goldbum in David Mamet's Speed-the-Plow - but he lost out on the Best Actor prize to Chiwetel Ejiofor, for his role in Othello at the Donmar Warehouse.
The Best Actress category was also a hard-fought affair - in the end, Margaret Tyzack shared the accolade with Penelope Wilton for their roles in The Chalk Garden.
The Donmar's Michael Grandage was named Best Director for overseeing both Othello and The Chalk Garden, in addition to Ivanov.
The ceremony took place at London's Royal Opera House on Monday.
The American Beauty star, who has served as artistic director at the capital's Old Vic Theatre for the last five years, was praised for his part in reviving Alan Ayckbourn's The Norman Conquests.
Speaking of his pride at being involved with the theatre, he said: "I can't quite believe what has happened to the Old Vic."
He recalled how, at the beginning of his tenure, some critics were "asking me to pack my bags and get the hell out of town" - but he refused and told his staff that "if we kept our heads down, kept focused on the vision, we would eventually emerge and establish ourselves".
And English theatre director Sir Peter Hall was also full of compliments for Spacey: "(He's a) great actor, great director, and I think, now, great theatre runner."
Spacey was also applauded for his performance alongside Jeff Goldbum in David Mamet's Speed-the-Plow - but he lost out on the Best Actor prize to Chiwetel Ejiofor, for his role in Othello at the Donmar Warehouse.
The Best Actress category was also a hard-fought affair - in the end, Margaret Tyzack shared the accolade with Penelope Wilton for their roles in The Chalk Garden.
The Donmar's Michael Grandage was named Best Director for overseeing both Othello and The Chalk Garden, in addition to Ivanov.
The ceremony took place at London's Royal Opera House on Monday.
- 11/24/2008
- WENN
Spacey And Branagh Go Head-to-Head In London Theatre Awards
Actor/director Kevin Spacey will fight it out with Kenneth Branagh for the Best Actor prize at London's 2008 Evening Standard Theatre Awards.
The American Beauty star is nominated for his role in the West End production of Speed-the-Plow at the Old Vic Theatre, of which he is artistic director, while Branagh is recognised for his turn in Ivanov at the Donmar West End at Wyndham's Theatre.
They will compete against the likes of Chiwetel Ejiofor for Othello at the Donmar Warehouse and Adam Godley for his role in the London stage adaptation of 1988 Dustin Hoffman movie Rain Man.
Meanwhile, Margaret Tyzack (The Chalk Garden), Helen McCrory (Rosmersholm) and Lesley Manville (Her Naked Skin) are up for the Best Actress gong, while Best Director nominees include Alan Rickman (Creditors), Michael Grandage (Othello/The Chalk Garden/Ivanov) and Michael Boyd (The History Cycle).
The awards will be handed out at the Royal Opera House on 24 November.
The American Beauty star is nominated for his role in the West End production of Speed-the-Plow at the Old Vic Theatre, of which he is artistic director, while Branagh is recognised for his turn in Ivanov at the Donmar West End at Wyndham's Theatre.
They will compete against the likes of Chiwetel Ejiofor for Othello at the Donmar Warehouse and Adam Godley for his role in the London stage adaptation of 1988 Dustin Hoffman movie Rain Man.
Meanwhile, Margaret Tyzack (The Chalk Garden), Helen McCrory (Rosmersholm) and Lesley Manville (Her Naked Skin) are up for the Best Actress gong, while Best Director nominees include Alan Rickman (Creditors), Michael Grandage (Othello/The Chalk Garden/Ivanov) and Michael Boyd (The History Cycle).
The awards will be handed out at the Royal Opera House on 24 November.
- 11/4/2008
- WENN
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