Brenda Blethyn, best known for her role as DCI Vera Stanhope in the ITV crime drama Vera, will return to Newcastle this July for a special event at Tyneside Cinema. The actress will take part in the cinema's Desert Island Flicks series on July 27, a Desert Island Discs-style evening where she will discuss her life and career through film clips and personal stories.
Event Details and Guest Line-Up
The event, which starts at 6.30pm, has already sold out. Blethyn will be joined in conversation by local actor-comedian Dave Johns, star of Ken Loach's I, Daniel Blake. Johns will host the evening, guiding Blethyn through her cinematic choices and memories. The Desert Island Flicks series has previously featured guests such as James Purefoy, Stewart Lee, Bill Bailey, and Christopher Eccleston.
Brenda Blethyn's Career Highlights
Blethyn has enjoyed a distinguished career in both film and television. She has won BAFTA and Golden Globe awards and received Oscar nominations for her performances. Her notable film roles include Little Voice and Pride & Prejudice. The actress has spent much of her life in cinemas, both as an audience member and on screen, and is looking forward to sharing the films that have shaped her life.
Quotes from Brenda Blethyn and Host
Blethyn said: "I've spent much of my life in cinemas, both as an audience member and on screen, so the chance to sit down and talk about the films that have stayed with me over the years is a real treat. I've heard wonderful things about Desert Island Flicks and the Tyneside audience, and I'm very much looking forward to sharing some stories, memories and a few cinematic favourites."
Host Dave Johns added: "What we've created with Desert Island Flicks is something really special. Every guest brings a completely different perspective and Brenda is someone whose career has touched so many people over the years. She's funny, warm, honest and a brilliant storyteller, so I know this is going to be a cracking night."
Series Success and Fundraising
The Desert Island Flicks series has completed its first year with four sell-out events. Tyneside Cinema's chief executive Nic Greenan said: "To reach our first birthday with four sell-out events behind us is fantastic. The response from audiences has exceeded all expectations and it's clear there's a real appetite in the North East for these kinds of unique live experiences." She added: "We're absolutely delighted to welcome Brenda Blethyn as our next guest."
The series also raises funds for the cinema's Talent Unit, funded by the Sir Graham Wylie Foundation, which supports young working-class people seeking careers in film and television.
