BBC Four to pay tribute to acting legends

THE artistic might of Dame Helen Mirren, Sir Michael Caine and Dame Maggie Smith is to be harnessed by BBC Four for a programme starring Britain’s “theatrical knights and dames”.

The BBC will delve into its own archives for the best bits of Sir Anthony Hopkins, Sir Ralph Richardson, Dame Diana Rigg and Dame Judi Dench, featuring interviews and performances from their heyday.

The programme will go out over two hour-long episodes and is expected to include clips from stage, film and television, as well as the most candid interviews of stars’ careers.

A spokesman for the channel said: “Recognised by royal decree for their extraordinary achievements on the stage, many of our finest acting knights and dames have displayed their talents regularly on BBC television throughout their careers and have helped earn Britain an enviable reputation as a superpower in the theatrical world.”

Other programmes planned for next year will include a tour around Britain’s “land art” installations, a documentary on the growth of an oak tree and a talent show aimed at finding the “UK’s Best Part-Time Band”.

Arena will celebrate its 40th anniversary by exploring 100 years of American music, Nicola Benedetti will chart the birth of the violin concerto with jazz musician Wynton Marsalis, and scientists will “reveal the 15 colours that tell the story of the Earth, life and scientific discovery”.

Cassian Harrison, controller of the channel, said: “BBC Four continues to fire on all cylinders with bold, original programming.”