In a new BBC Arts Arena documentary called L.S. Lowry: The Unheard Tapes, acclaimed actor Sir Ian McKellen will bring the life of artist L.S. Lowry to the screen.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of L.S. Lowry’s death, a new film will share the heartwarming and unexpected connection between the famous artist and Angela Barratt, a young admirer. The film features interviews with Barratt that reveal some of Lowry’s most personal and thoughtful sides.
The recordings were made in L.S. Lowry’s home, capturing his genuine voice, which actor Ian McKellen will perform to on screen.
Ian McKellen described it as a special honor to portray L.S. Lowry using the artist’s own words. He explained that the recordings offer a personal look into Lowry’s mind – his hopes, disappointments, and sense of humor. McKellen believes anyone who appreciates Lowry’s art will be fascinated to hear the artist’s voice brought to life.
Throughout these honest and open talks, Lowry recounts his life story, from his early years to the very end, revealing the experiences and memories that made him the person and artist he was.
In addition to being a personal story, the documentary Arena: L.S. Lowry: The Unheard Tapes shows how the area around Salford and Greater Manchester – which Lowry painted so often – changed dramatically, and how its industrial development deeply affected his art.
Annabel Smith, currently performing in “The Shitheads” at The Royal Court Theatre, will play the part of Angela.
According to Mark Bell, Commissioning Editor for BBC Arts, this film is particularly timely as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of L.S. Lowry’s death and the 50th anniversary of the Arena program’s history of compelling storytelling. He believes the casting of Ian McKellen and Annabel Smith brilliantly reflects the dynamic between Lowry and his subject, Angela, mirroring life and art. The film explores not only Lowry’s life but also offers a glimpse into what life was like in northern England during the 20th century.
Richard Grossick, representing the Lowry Estate, said they were thrilled the BBC is airing “L.S.Lowry: The Unheard Tapes” to mark Arena’s anniversary, fifty years after Lowry’s death. They are pleased these fascinating interview recordings, made by Angela Barratt when she was young, have been preserved and are now being shared.
I’ve been so impressed working with the team at Wall to Wall – they’ve assembled an incredibly talented group of people who’ve crafted this programme with real care. And honestly, getting Ian McKellen on board felt like the final piece of a perfect puzzle! As a long-time fan of his work, I can’t think of anyone who could have captured the unique voice and spirit of L.S. Lowry – that wonderful, rhythmic Lancashire sound – quite like him.
L.S. Lowry: The Unheard Tapes will air on BBC Two and iPlayer soon.
Authors
Katelyn Mensah writes about entertainment for TopMob, covering everything from popular TV shows and reality competitions to important documentaries. Before joining TopMob, she worked at The Tab, where she focused on reality TV and celebrity news. She has a degree in Journalism.
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2026-01-15 14:04