London: English Heritage announces plans to unveil blue plaques for iconic actress Audrey Hepburn and music legend Marc Bolan in recognition of their significant cultural contributions. The awards will celebrate their enduring legacies in the arts, with ceremonies in Mayfair and west London scheduled for the coming months.
Audrey Hepburn, the iconic Hollywood actress, and Marc Bolan, the renowned frontman of T. Rex, are set to be honoured with blue plaques in London, as announced by English Heritage. This recognition comes as part of the charity’s initiative to commemorate individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped the cultural fabric of the capital.
The award ceremony will take place in Mayfair, where Hepburn’s early years in London will be memorialised. During her time in the city, Hepburn transitioned from ballet to acting, securing both theatre and film roles, including her Broadway debut in Gigi. She gained international acclaim, culminating in an Academy Award for her performance as Princess Ann in Roman Holiday. Hepburn’s influence extended beyond her film career, as she became a celebrated figure in fashion.
In addition to Hepburn, Marc Bolan’s impact on the Glam Rock movement of the 1970s will be acknowledged through a plaque at one of his former addresses in west London. Known for his flamboyant style characterised by sequins, feather boas, and platform boots, Bolan’s music fused rock and folk, producing hits such as Get It On and Ride a White Swan. His contributions to music and culture were recognised with his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2020.
Matt Thompson, English Heritage’s curatorial director, emphasised the significance of these figures, stating, “From literature and art to dance and music, these figures helped shape the London we know today. Their contributions not only had a profound impact on their fields but also continue to inspire generations.”
Other notable individuals receiving blue plaques include novelist Barbara Pym, celebrated for her works set in Pimlico. Her home, which inspired her novel Excellent Women, will be marked. Ballerina Alicia Markova, co-founder of the English National Ballet, will also be honoured at her childhood residence in Muswell Hill.
Una Marson, a Jamaican poet and a pioneering figure at the BBC, is to be recognised for her role in championing racial and gender equality, as she was the first black woman to be employed as a programme assistant and later the first black producer at the BBC. Her contributions helped reshape the landscape of British broadcasting.
English Heritage is also planning to install a plaque at the childhood home of artist Graham Sutherland, known for his evocative landscapes and portraits, including one of Sir Winston Churchill. The charity confirmed that all blue plaques will be subject to full approval from property owners and it is currently working with them on the installations.
This initiative aims to celebrate the enduring legacy of these creative figures and their influence on London’s artistic community.
Source: Noah Wire Services
