Alison Steadman talks to Samira Ahmed

Come and hear the full, funny, feminist and entertaining story of one of our best-loved, and most versatile, actors. Alison Steadman recounts her inspiring and exhilarating journey from Liverpool to London drama school, and looks back over her many stellar roles, from Beverley’s overbearing party hosting and Mrs Bennet’s ailing ‘nerves’ to Pamelaaaa’s instantly-regretted vegetarian declaration.

Growing up in Liverpool as the entertainer of the family, impersonating neighbours to the delight of her friends and playing pranks on her unwitting mother, the young Alison Steadman had no idea of the roles and awards in store for her. But when she snuck off to London to audition for drama school in secret, she started the process of becoming one of today’s greatest character actors.