First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FM
Eileen Atkins gets her first parts at the RSC in Stratford on Avon. When one of the plays transfers to London, she has an extraordinary encounter with Hollywood star, Gene Kelly. Show more
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 LW
According to a stranger who came to her family’s house in Tottenham, Dame Eileen Atkins was destined for stardom. With WW2 as a backdrop, she became Madam Yandie’s star pupil. Show more
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 LW
Eileen Atkins recalls two extraordinary and influential teachers, Miss Hall who taught her about plays and EJ Butler who first introduced her to Shakespeare and a great deal more. Show more
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 LW
Eileen Atkins gets a job at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre but has to negotiate the lascivious director. Then, at Oxford Playhouse, she crosses swords with Peter Hall. Show more
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 LW
Eileen Atkins insists on auditioning for Arnold Wesker’s Roots, identifying with the part of Beatie. She goes on to work with her hero Laurence Olivier. Show more