Born Shirley Broadbent, Amanda Barrie has been working since she was three. She has performed on stage countless times, from chorus girl to West End lead, appeared in a number of films and has been a familiar face on television from its earliest beginnings. In this autobiography, Amanda recounts anecdotes from her packed professional life, including her famous roles in “Carry On Cleo”, as Alma in “Coronation Street” and conwoman Bev in “Bad Girls”. She also reflects, with characteristic humour, on events in her personal life including her disrupted childhood, disastrous school life and her relationships with men and women including the remarkable threesome that she shared with her husband Robin Hunter.
**Step into the dazzling world of a British entertainment icon with "It's Not a Rehearsal: The Autobiography" by Amanda Barrie, co-written with Hilary Bonner Barrie.** This captivating hardcover memoir offers an unfiltered and deeply personal journey through a remarkable life dedicated to performance. From her earliest days as a child performer at just three years old to becoming a household name, Amanda Barrie's story is one of resilience, talent, and an unshakeable passion for the stage and screen. As you delve into these pages, you'll be transported through decades of British television and film history. Amanda shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes from her iconic roles, including her memorable appearances in the beloved "Carry On" films, her heartwarming portrayal of Alma Sedgewick in the long-running soap opera "Coronation Street," and her fearless performance as the cunning conwoman Bev in the gritty drama "Bad Girls." But her career extends far beyond these highlights; readers will discover the breadth of her talent, from her early days as a chorus girl to her commanding presence as a West End lead. Beyond the spotlight, Amanda opens up about her personal life with her characteristic wit and candour. She reflects on a childhood marked by disruption, a school life that was far from ideal, and a series of relationships that shaped her journey. Her exploration of her personal experiences, including a candid discussion of a unique relationship, is handled with the same engaging honesty that has defined her public persona. Co-authored by Hilary Bonner Barrie, this autobiography is a testament to a life lived fully and without apology. This First Edition - Second Impression, published by Headline in 2002, is a substantial read at 320 pages, offering a comprehensive look at a career that has spanned generations. Weighing 1325 grams, this hardcover edition is a substantial addition to any collection for fans of British television, classic cinema, and compelling life stories. Discover the woman behind the characters and the indomitable spirit that has kept Amanda Barrie in the public eye for so many years. This is a story that is both entertaining and profoundly human, a true celebration of a life lived on its own terms.