Miriam Margolyes, 85, braced for career change away from TV

The actress was born in Oxford and attended Oxford High School before going to the University of Cambridge.

She is well known for her outspoken views as well as her roles as Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter film series.

The actress also played Mrs Mingott in Martin Scorsese's 1993 film The Age of Innocence, for which she received the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress.

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Now, Ms Margolyes is embarking on a career first, with the actress set to make her panto debut this month.

The 85-year-old will star in Jack and the Beanstalk at Lighthouse, Poole, with performances running from December 10 until January 3.

Ms Margolyes will play a cheese-loving male giant, although her role has been pre-recorded because of the demanding schedule of two performances a day.

The production is directed by CBeebies star Chris Jarvis, who also appears as the pantomime dame.

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Speaking about working with Ms Margolyes, Mr Jarvis said: "It’s not until you hear someone like Miriam delivering your lines that you realise how much of a genius they really are."

The production also features Sarah Louise Young as male character Flesh Creep and will put its own spin on the traditional story, incorporating a wizard and a trip into outer space.

Mr Jarvis said the show would push the limits of the classic story, with an additional plot thread alongside the familiar tale.

He also said the production celebrates the gender fluidity traditionally associated with pantomime, with Ms Margolyes playing a male giant.