Edinburgh has long earned its reputation as a genuine cradle of talent. Art and culture seem intrinsically linked to the Scottish capital. This is evidenced by the multitude of actors, musicians, composers, artists, and sculptors who were born, lived, or simply worked in this marvellous city. More on edinburghka.
Through their work and overall creative energy, they seemed to complement – or rather, expand – the Edinburgh atmosphere, adding touches of artistry, elegance, beauty, and musicality. The result is a unique blend of glamour and brilliance that touches everyone lucky enough to visit Scotland’s capital at least once.
In short, it was these talented individuals, with their achievements, creations, perspectives, and artistry, who bestowed such worldwide recognition upon the city. Naturally, they also ensured that the culture in Edinburgh remained vibrant, constantly shifting and reflecting exciting new directions.
Una Stubbs was a shining star of the artistic community. This actress, television presenter, and dancer possessed such a range of talents that audiences watched her, whether on screen or on stage, with bated breath.
The Start of a Creative Journey
Una was born on 1st May 1937. As she grew up, her mother decided to send her daughter to dancing school.
This proved to be a remarkably astute decision, as by the age of 16, Una was already successfully dancing in the musical revue Pardon My French.
Her abilities were so pronounced and evident that she was soon invited to work on television.
In 1956, viewers first saw her on screen in the music show Cool for Cats.
However, this period of the budding celebrity’s life was also marked by a demanding creative schedule at The London Palladium. Alongside this, she managed to find time to work in London’s cabarets, revues, and clubs.
Breaking into Film and TV
In 1958, Stubbs had her first encounter with advertising, effectively becoming the face of Dairy Box chocolates.
The year 1963 ushered in a phase of intensive television work for Una. Initially, she joined the cast of the new game show Don’t Say a Word. Later, she got her big break in cinema.
Her first film role was in Summer Holiday. Then, in 1964, she was invited to feature in the film Wonderful Life.
It seems directors and producers sensed Stubbs’ acting potential. Following these projects, she was given the chance to try her hand at comedy, landing the role of Rita in the sitcom Till Death Us Do Part.
Later Projects
1970/1971 saw Una’s involvement in the project It’s Cliff Richard!. However, she did not appear in the following season, as she was busy with the delightful demands of childbirth.
In 1979, the actress was once again cast in a long-running production: the children’s series Worzel Gummidge, where Stubbs played Aunt Sally.
Best Supporting Actress
Overall, Una appeared in a great number of television series. Midsomer Murders, Keeping Up Appearances, and The Worst Witch were all graced by the actress’s presence and her brilliant performances.
Even in the acclaimed detective series Sherlock, which aired from 2010 to 2017, Stubbs fully showcased her potential, playing the role of Mrs Hudson. For this part, Una was later nominated for The Crime Thriller Awards as Best Supporting Actress.
Stage Work
However, when discussing Stubbs’ career, it is crucial to understand that television and active filming never extinguished the actress’s love for the stage. In the theatre, audiences witnessed different facets of Una’s talent—works imbued with drama and a nuanced understanding of the material. Indeed, watching her perform, one got the distinct impression that she grasped every single detail of her character with incredible precision in every play.
For example, Stubbs was involved in the 2001 production of Star Quality. Other, equally notable, theatrical roles included Don Carlos, Pygmalion, and La Cage Aux Folles.
The Artist
It must be highlighted that Una was a truly multifaceted personality. Throughout her life, she managed to excel in various creative roles: from dancer to actress, and even artist. Yes, that’s right! Stubbs was proficient at drawing too.
For many years, she produced sketches depicting London life and subsequently held exhibitions of her work.
On several occasions, Una’s paintings were even featured in The Royal Academy of Arts’ Summer Exhibition.
Thus, the phenomenon of Una Stubbs lies in her colossal work ethic and, of course, her multifaceted talent. She effortlessly captivated the audience, both on screen and on stage. This is particularly remarkable, as actors often choose to specialise, dedicating their time either to film or to theatre.
But that was not the case for Una. Her creative career was exceptionally rich. She was unafraid to be involved in multiple projects simultaneously, and she managed this workload successfully.
Sadly, Stubbs’ earthly journey ended in 2021. Yet, she continues to be remembered, loved, and admired for her unique talent. Her brilliantly portrayed characters continue to look out at viewers from screens—surely the very definition of creative immortality.