Born in London, England. Legendary stage performer, acclaimed for her precise diction, ironic delivery and forthright acting style, who won renown for her performances in the works of Shakespeare, Shaw and Wilde and in several Restoration comedies. After appearing in two early silent films, Evans did not return to the screen until 1948. Her definitive portrayal of Wilde's Lady Bracknell in THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST was captured on screen in 1952, and in her seventies and eighties she created a bevy of memorable characters in such films as TOM JONES (1963) and THE WHISPERERS (1966). She was made a Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (the equivalent of a knighthood) in 1946.  Nominated for Supporting Actress 1963: TOM JONES  Nominated for Supporting Actress 1964: THE CHALK GARDEN  Nominated for Actress 1967: THE WHISPERERS 3 nominations