I've always liked new writing.

I've always liked new writing.

Looking back, there is nothing wrong with that peace, love and equality that the hippies espoused. In many ways, we have regressed because they were into organic food, back to nature, make love not war, be good to all men, share and share alike - which is what many are talking about now.

I worked in rep for six years, then I came to London and to the National Theatre. What's better than that

You could say I'm a character actress. Or maybe a character actress who does peculiar, interesting lead roles. Does that make sense?

At the time of Woodstock, I was just 13, but I used to see these exotic hippy creatures and I did look on with envy. How could you not? In an ideal world, I would have loved to have been a hippy - but I might have been a bit strait-laced. It was my fantasy.

Look at Judi Dench, who's brilliant in whatever bloody job she does.