The Cinema Museum, London

An Evening with Suzanna Leigh

Tue 27 May 2014 @ 19:30 · Events

Suzanna Leigh, Tony Curtis and Thelma Ritter in a still from the film Boeing, Boeing (1965)

Suzanna Leigh, Tony Curtis and Thelma Ritter in Boeing, Boeing (1965)

We are delighted to welcome actress Suzanna Leigh to the Cinema Museum for an evening of conversation about her career and clips from a selection of her films.

Born Suzanna Smyth, the daughter of an auto engine manufacturer, Leigh knew she wanted to be a film star when she was five years old. She began working in movies while still a pre-teen, appearing as an extra in tom thumb (1958), Oscar Wilde (1960) and many other British productions. At eleven, a conversation with family acquaintance Vivien Leigh sealed her ambition – and stage name.

Just a few years later, she was the star of the 13-episode French TV series, Trois étoiles en Touraine (1966), which every week featured Suzanna, her racing car and a different male lead (the “three stars” of the translated title).

An elaborate PR stunt caught the attention of movie producer Hal B. Wallis, who snapped up the 20-year-old actress for his Hollywood production Boeing, Boeing (1965), starring Tony Curtis. Soon afterwards, Suzanna took a leading role as Elvis Presley’s love interest in Paradise, Hawaiian Style (1966).

Doors open at 18.30 for a 19.30 start.

Refreshments will be available in our licenced cafe/bar.

TICKETS & PRICING

Spring Season 2014 ticketing applies.

Advance tickets may be purchased from WeGotTickets, or direct from the Museum by calling 020 7840 2200 in office hours.