DAME PATRICIA ROUTLEDGE - 'THE QUEEN LOVED HYACINTH BUCKET!'

Even at 94, the screen legend is still keeping up appearances!

- Craig Bennett.

Dame Patricia Routledge breaks into the warmest smile while reminiscing about her visits to Australia and reflecting on her stellar stage and screen career, which is now in its eighth decade.

"When I think about my showbiz life, I've loved every minute," says the British-born star from her Chichester, UK, home.

"As a youngster I dreamed of becoming a schoolteacher. Driving around in a flashy red sports car, with romances all over Europe during the holidays," laughs the spry nonagenarian, who adds that acting became her calling. "I began performing while at university. Then in 1952 I was fortunate to start work at the Liverpool Playhouse. I did everything from sweeping the floor to ensuring the actors made it to the stage on time," she explains, in her famous rounded tones.

"That same year I made my professional stage debut in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream at the Liverpool Playhouse.

What a thrill that was!" What followed has been an extraordinary acting and singing career that has captivated millions of fans all over the world and, as a testament to her talents, a mantle brimming with prestigious accolades, including an Olivier Award in the UK and a Tony for her starring role in a Broadway musical.