author
Ellen Terry
1847–1928
Raised in a family of actors, she became one of the great stars of the Victorian and Edwardian stage, especially admired for her Shakespeare roles. Her long career, vivid stage presence, and partnership with Henry Irving made her one of the best-known actresses of her time.
2 Audiobooks
The Story of My Life: Recollections and Reflections
by Ellen Terry
The Russian Ballet
by Ellen Terry
About the author
Born in Coventry in 1847, Ellen Terry went on stage as a child and grew up in the theatre. She became famous in Britain and North America for performances that mixed warmth, intelligence, and natural charm, helping to make her one of the most popular actresses of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
She is especially remembered for Shakespeare, including celebrated appearances as Portia, Beatrice, and Lady Macbeth. Her years at London’s Lyceum Theatre with actor-manager Henry Irving were central to her fame, and her interpretation of major classical roles shaped how many audiences of the time imagined Shakespeare’s heroines.
Later in life, Terry continued to perform, lecture, and write, and her home at Smallhythe in Kent became closely linked with her legacy. She died in 1928, but she remains an important figure in theatre history for the way she brought emotional life and immediacy to the stage.