Wendy Hiller, the renowned actress, was born on August 15th, 1912, in Bramhall, a charming suburb situated near Stockport, within the picturesque county of Cheshire, England. As the daughter of Frank and Marie Hiller, she was destined for greatness. Her educational journey commenced at Winceby House School, a prestigious institution located in the affluent town of Bexhill. Later, she further honed her skills at the esteemed Manchester Repertory Theatre, where she was fortunate enough to rub shoulders with some of the most talented individuals in the industry.
Wendy's early forays onto the stage were marked by notable performances, including a tour of Sir John Barry's production of Evensong, which showcased her remarkable range as a thespian. Her breakout role came when she portrayed Sally Hardcastle in the critically acclaimed production of Love on the Dole. This marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career, during which she would go on to tour extensively, gracing the stages of London and New York with her presence.
In 1936, Wendy Hiller's star continued to rise as she took on leading roles in two of the most iconic productions of the era: Pygmalion and Saint Joan. These performances at the Malvern Festival cemented her status as a leading lady of the British stage, and she would go on to become a beloved figure in the world of theatre, leaving an indelible mark on the art form.