大象传媒

One big dramatic role. Actors from across the world tell us what the part means and what it means to them. This time: Cleopatra.

Cleopatra 7th of Egypt is one of the ancient world's most famous figures. But it was William Shakespeare who first made her an iconic dramatic role and shaped our ideas of this historical leader - in his play Antony and Cleopatra.

The play鈥檚 lines have stayed in the mind of Dame Judi Dench who initially doubted whether she could play the part. She tells stories of escaping snakes, secret suppers, and spectacular speeches. It's a part which has fascinated Dame Janet Suzman, who has returned to the play and the complex beguiling Cleopatra time and again over the last five decades.

The play travels from Egypt to Rome and back again - Do帽a Croll, thought to be the first black actor to play the role, talks about why Cleopatra is a part important to black actors, a role known for her power and her supposed beauty. Our image of the Egyptian ruler has perhaps been influenced more by one actor than any other: Elizabeth Taylor. Roger Lewis reveals the parallels between the lives of Taylor and Cleopatra.

Antony and Cleopatra's final act is known for its wonderful language and theatrical difficulty. Nadia Nadarajah, a Shakespearean actor who uses BSL, explores Cleopatra鈥檚 famous final moments, surrounded by snakes.

Produced by Camellia Sinclair and Sam Grist for 大象传媒 Audio, Bristol
Edited by Emma Harding
Mixed by Ilse Lademann