Julie Andrews: The Fans' Story

Dame Julie Andrews - singer, actress, dancer, author - is undoubtedly one of the greatest entertainers of all time. A globally recognised star of the silver screen, the small screen, the stage, the page. In a career spanning over 8 decades, since making her professional debut at the age of 12, Dame Julie has won an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, two Emmys, three Grammys and seven Golden Globe Awards, and she has starred in some of the biggest, most iconic films ever made, from Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music to more recent hits including Shrek 2 and The Princess Diaries series. She was made a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000.

In this hour-long special, we hear from some of the biggest names in entertainment who have worked alongside her or have been inspired by her, all sharing memories of how Dame Julie Andrews has influenced their lives.

Karen Dotrice (Jane Banks in 1964’s Mary Poppins) and Angela Cartwright (Brigitta Von Trapp in 1965’s The Sound of Music) were both little girls when they shot to overnight fame, and here they recall lovingly working with Dame Julie in those iconic films, sharing memories of her kindness, her work ethic, and being nurtured by her.

We also hear from Sir Tim Rice, Sir Cameron Mackintosh, Dame Elaine Paige, Patti Lupone, Vanessa Williams, Michelle Visage, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Marisha Wallace, Jane McDonald, La Voix, Pixie Lott, Kerry Ellis and Sandi Toksvig, plus a rousing introduction from superfan Michael Ball.

All of this soundtracked by some of the most recognisable songs in movie history, sung by that unmistakable voice. Whether you know her as Maria Von Trapp, Mary Poppins, Victor/Victoria, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Queen of Genovia, Queen Lillian, or all of the above, lose yourself in the wonder and magic of Dame Julie Andrews all over again… in the most delightful way.

“Julie Andrews: The Fans Story” is a Mostest Production for BBC Radio 2.