Rosebud with Gyles Brandreth
Gyles Brandreth / Plain Jaine Media
More Rosebud - Adrian Lester
In this episode of Rosebud with Gyles Brandreth, the host sits down with celebrated actor Adrian Lester to explore his journey from a vibrant childhood in Birmingham to becoming a powerhouse on the West End stage. The conversation offers an intimate look at Lester’s formative years, particularly his upbringing within the Windrush generation. He reflects on his grandfather’s resilience in 1950s England, the tight-knit, musical atmosphere of his family home, and the cultural fusion of his Jamaican heritage. A central theme of the discussion is the early discovery of his craft. Lester shares how joining a cathedral choir at age nine planted the first seeds of his fascination with performance, describing a pivotal moment of witnessing "alchemy" between the choir and an emotionally moved congregation. He recounts how his interests expanded from singing to youth theater and dance, describing the pursuit of acting as a lifelong, complex puzzle—much like a Rubik’s cube that constantly shifts. Throughout the episode, Lester speaks with refreshing honesty about the dedication required to master his art, the influence of his mentors, and the passion that has fueled his successful career.
Updated Jul 7, 2026
About This Episode
We are delighted to have the actor Adrian Lester, currently in the West End as Cyrano de Bergerac, in the Rosebud chair today. Adrian talks to Gyles about his childhood in Birmingham, growing up in an effusive and loving family of Jamaican heritage, surrounded by aunties, cousins and grandparents. He talks about the formative experience of being a chorister in the cathedral choir, and of doing drama at the Midlands Arts Centre. He talks about going to RADA, doing Shakespeare with Cheek by Jowl and Peter Brook, and playing Cyrano. Finally, he talks about relationships and fatherhood.
Our thanks to Adrian Lester for this fascinating conversation.
Cyrano de Bergerac is at the Noel Coward Theatre in London. Tickets are available here.
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