West End theatres to honour Dame Penelope Keith by dimming lights
Legendary actress remembered for her remarkable contributions
London's West End theatres will pay tribute to Dame Penelope Keith, who passed away at the age of 86, by dimming their lights in her honour.
Described as "one of this country’s most venerated actors," Dame Penelope was celebrated for her iconic TV roles as Margo Leadbetter in The Good Life and Audrey fforbes-Hamilton in To The Manor Born.
The Society Of London Theatre and UK Theatre's co-chief executive, Claire Walker, expressed the industry's sorrow and respect:
“We are proud to come together as an industry and honour the life and extraordinarily prolific career of Dame Penelope Keith, who will undoubtedly be remembered for many years to come…”
In her memory, theatres will dim their lights for two minutes at 7pm on Wednesday, 30th June.
Dame Penelope began her acting journey in repertory theatre before joining the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1963.
Her career was marked by notable achievements, including winning the 1976 Olivier Award for best comedy performance for the play Donkeys’ Years.
Throughout her career, she remained active on stage, notably playing Lady Bracknell in the 2008 West End production of The Importance Of Being Earnest, and leading a tour of Two Cigarettes In The Dark in 2022.
Notable personalities have joined in paying tribute, including Sue Perkins and Gyles Brandreth.
Perkins honoured Dame Penelope as a "queen, legend, icon," acknowledging her creation of memorable sitcom characters.
Brandreth praised her generosity and contributions to good causes, adding:
"A wonderful actress, a real friend, so funny, so generous with the time she gave to good causes. Hers was indeed a good life.”
Beyond her iconic roles, Dame Penelope appeared in several sitcoms, including Executive Stress, No Job For A Lady, and Next Of Kin.
She won a Bafta for her performance in a TV adaptation of The Norman Conquests, following a successful stage run.