Legendary stage performer acclaimed for her precise diction, ironic delivery and forthright acting style who won renown for her performances in Shakespeare, Shaw, Wilde and Restoration comedies. After appearing in two early silent films, Evans did not return to the screen until 1948. Her definitive portrayal of Oscar Wilde's Lady Bracknell in "The Importance of Being Earnest" was captured on screen in 1952, and in her 70s and 80s she created a bevy of memorable characters in such films as "Tom Jones" (1963) and "The Whisperers" (1967).
Companion
HUSBAND: George Booth. Engineer. Married from 1925 until his death in 1935.
Milestone
Worked as an apprentice in a London millinary shop while attending a drama class which developed into a club known as the Streatham Shakespeare Players
1910: Amateur stage debut in "Twelfth Night"
1912: Joined William Poel's theatrical company; made London stage debut in "Troilus and Cressida"
1915: Silent film acting debut in "A Welsh Singer"
1925: Joined Old Vic Company
1931: First role on New York stage in "The Lady With a Lamp"
1930: Attempt as actress-manager failed when her production of "Delilah" closed in London after five performances
1948: Sound film debut in "The Queen of Spades"
1967: Enjoyed success as star of "The Whisperers"
1976: Last film, "Nasty Habits"
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