Hugh Bonneville at the Rose Theatre (Kingston upon Thames, 29.03.2023)

Hugh Bonneville, perhaps most known as Robert Crawley, the Earl of Grantham, from the popular serie Downtown Abbey, was the latest guest of the special "one-off" evenings that the Rose Theatre organises to support itself (as a theatre and a registered charity) and other charities (in this instance the charity Scene & Heard that Hugh Bonneville is a patron of).

The event was led by Christopher Haydon, the artistic director of the Rose Theatre, who very skillfully navigated through Hugh's personal and professional life. It was an absolute privilege to see and listen to Hugh's captivating talk about his vast experience, encounters with famous actors and directors and interesting behind-the-scenes stories.

Hugh started as a theatre actor and, observing his famous predecessors, he enjoyed and cherished every opportunity to learn the theatre craftsmanship. Proud of the tradition and legacy of the British theatre, he's keen on spreading it amongst the large population, especially in places where people would never get an opportunity to experience it. During the last decade or so, he gradually became recognised as an important TV and film persona. His roles in Paddington and Downtown Abbey made him one of the most well-known actors of our time.

From the period drama Downton Abbey, we're used to seeing Hugh Bonneville (alias Robert Crawley, the Earl of Grantham) as a well-mannered, good hearted but somewhat reserved and a bit old-fashioned English aristocrat and gentleman who doesn't like the progress in society and would very much prefer that the life stayed unchanged. Well, Hugh Bonneville, as a person, is certainly good hearted and "hands on" in supporting and helping the most disadvantaged young people, but he's also very open, generous, funny, chatty and approachable.

These soirées, kindly supported by guest-actors, are also delightful and unique opportunities to see and meet the actors afterwards for a private drink (reserved for the premium tickets holders). Such was our joy yesterday evening, when we had a moment with Hugh for ourselves .

The previous guest of such an event was Dame Judi Dench, whom we equally met afterwards and I can't wait to see who the next guest will be.