THE PERSONAL life of the leading 19th century Shakespearean actress Ellen Terry will be placed under the spotlight at a public talk .

The world renowned music educator Ann Rachlin will give the talk at Holgate House, Grey College, South Road, Durham, at 2.15pm on Sunday, October 19.

Ms Rachlin has given successful public talks in Durham about composers Frederic Handel, Ludwig Van Beethoven and Wolfgang Mozart.

The expert, who has produced 24 albums and has written autobiographies as well as 11 books for children, will deliver a talk called The Ménage à Trois in Ellen Terry’s Garden.

Using private photographs she will outline how three feminists defied Victorian prejudices to care for Ellen Terry in her final years until she died on July 21, 1928, aged 81.

Ms Rachlin, who lives in the East Sussex town of Winchelsea and is a member of the Grey College Senior Common Room at Durham University, said: “This is a fascinating story with some colourful tales of their private lives. The women were extremely eccentric and extremely talented.”

Alan Martin, president of Grey College Senior Common Room, said: “Year on year our talks are attracting more and more people from Durham and beyond.

“They are sometimes quirky, but always informative and interesting and we are delighted so many people outside the University are enjoying them.

“Ann Rachlin is a wonderful and spell-binding speaker and we’d love to see even more people along to enjoy our first talk of the autumn season.”

Admission is free. For more information contact 0191-334 5900 or email: grey.reception@durham.ac.uk