
Dames of Classic Drama at the BBC
From the BBC archives, before their talents were recognised by royal decree, the early work and career defining moments of Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Diana Rigg and Helen Mirren.
Today, they are at the centre of British cultural life and among our greatest exports - the acting dames, an exclusive club of stage and screen greats who were honoured for their services to drama. But, lurking in the BBC archives - from long before their talents were recognised by royal decree - we find the early work and some career defining moments of Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Diana Rigg and Helen Mirren. David Tennant narrates the story of our dames of classic drama, from a golden age of British television drama.
Last on
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On Stage: A special season of programmes
Celebrate the smell of greasepaint & the roar of the crowd as the BBC goes to the theatre
Music Played
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Dire Straits
Sultans Of Swing
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Pink Floyd
Breathe (In The Air)
Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Narrator | David Tennant |
| Series Producer | William Naylor |
| Producer | Rachel Jardine |

