Will She Do?: Act One of a Life on Stage

Will She Do? is the autobiography of Eileen Atkins, a British actress who was born in 1934 and rose to fame on Broadway with The Killing of Sister George. The book is candid and witty, taking the reader from Atkins' childhood in a council estate to her breakthrough in theatre and film. She is known for her eye for the absurd, storytelling talent, and insistence on honesty. Atkins has won numerous awards throughout her career and has been recognized as a Dame in 1991.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2022
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Will She Do? is a captivating memoir by Eileen Atkins, a remarkable actress who has made an indelible mark on the world of theatre and cinema. Born in 1934 to humble beginnings on a council estate in Tottenham, England, Atkins had a burning desire to pursue a career in acting from a young age. Her journey is a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering passion for the arts.

Candid and witty, Atkins' memoir takes readers on a journey from her early days performing in working-men's clubs as a dancing "Baby Eileen" at the age of six to her breakthrough on Broadway with "The Killing of Sister George" at the age of thirty-two. This pivotal role earned her the first of four Tony Award nominations, solidifying her status as a rising star in the theatrical world.

In addition to her acting prowess, Atkins is also a co-creator of the iconic television series "Upstairs, Downstairs," which she wrote the screenplay for. Her talent for storytelling extends to her literary works, as she wrote the screenplay for "Mrs. Dalloway," for which she won an Evening Standard Award. At the age of eighty-six, Atkins has authored her first autobiographical work, "Will She Do?"

Throughout her career, Atkins has graced both American and British stages and screens, earning numerous accolades along the way. She has won an Emmy, a BAFTA, and is a three-time Olivier Award winner. Her theatre performances include notable roles in "The Height of the Storm," "Ellen Terry," "All That Fall," and many more. Her television and film credits span a wide range, from the popular series "Doc Martin" to "Cranford" to "The Crown."

What sets Atkins apart is her unique perspective and her ability to capture the absurdities of life with humor and insight. Her memoir is characterized by an eye for detail, a terrific knack for storytelling, and an insistence on honesty. Atkins' raconteur's tale about family, class, youthful ambition, and big dreams offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of the entertainment industry.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the arts, Atkins was made a Dame in 1991. Her legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, and her remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in pursuing one's dreams.

In conclusion, Eileen Atkins is a true icon of the stage and screen, and her memoir "Will She Do?" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling and the indomitable spirit of a woman who defied societal expectations and achieved greatness.

Weight: 282g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349014678