TEA WITH DAME MAGGIE
Probably every fan of Downton Abbey felt bereaved at the passing of Dame Maggie Smith at the end of September. We would like to pay tribute to this British paragon of stage and screen with a special film series throughout December: Tea With Dame Maggie. Each Monday at 1:00 p.m., we will show a favorite Maggie Smith film served with “Tea” – finger sandwiches, cookies, scones, cake, tea, and wine. The films in the series represent some of her most iconic roles, favorites of adult audiences.
All shows are at 1:00 p.m., tea service begins at 12:30 p.m.
Tickets & Tea: Members – $13.00; Non-Members $17.00
Film Only Ticket: Members – $8.00; Non-Members $12.00
NEWLY ADDED!
MONDAY, JANUARY 6
TEA WITH THE DAMES
(2018)
12A | 1 hour, 20 minutes
Pull up a chair and join four of Britain’s most iconic actresses—Maggie Smith, Judi Dench, Joan Plowright, and Eileen Atkins—as they share stories, laughs, and a lifetime of memories in this candid and heartwarming documentary.
At the heart of this intimate gathering is the inimitable Maggie Smith, whose wit, charm, and razor-sharp humor shine throughout. Known for her illustrious career spanning stage and screen, Smith regales her friends (and us) with anecdotes from her many unforgettable roles, including her time as the Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey and her early days in theater.
Her self-deprecating humor and no-nonsense observations bring both laughter and insight, offering a unique glimpse into the life of a legendary performer. From hilarious banter to poignant reflections on aging and legacy, Maggie Smith proves why she remains a treasured figure in cinema and beyond.
“As splendid as whiskey in a teacup.”
Pat Mullen
POV Magazine
“Candid, insightful and unpredictable, Dame Eileen Atkins, Dame Judi Dench, Dame Joan Plowright and Dame Maggie Smith are not only acting legends but also great friends. And a treat to hang out with.”
Kenneth Turan
Los Angeles Magazine
NEWLY ADDED!
MONDAY, JANUARY 13
THE LADY IN THE VAN
(2016)
PG13 | 1 hour, 44 minutes
Set in the quaint London neighborhood of Camden Town, The Lady in the Van tells the true—and truly unusual—story of Miss Mary Shepherd (played by Maggie Smith), an eccentric, homeless woman who “temporarily” parks her rundown van in playwright Alan Bennett’s driveway and then decides never to leave. Over the course of fifteen years, her presence tests the patience of those around her and forces Bennett to confront his own compassion and curiosity.
Maggie Smith’s portrayal of Miss Shepherd steals the spotlight, blending caustic wit, vulnerability, and an undercurrent of mystery that keeps both Bennett and the audience guessing. Smith infuses her performance with equal parts imperiousness and fragility: she is both stubbornly self-reliant and quietly haunted by a past she can’t quite escape. She delivers her sharp remarks and odd demands with trademark comedic timing, yet manages to evoke genuine sympathy for a woman hardened by solitude and personal demons. Above all, it is Smith’s nuanced rendering of Miss Shepherd’s contradictions—her pride and shame, her resilience and desperation—that makes her character the poignant heart of The Lady in the Van.
“The joy of the film comes in watching Smith work her magic.”
Linda Barnard
Toronto Star
“Of course, the film's showpiece is another incomparable lady, the always amazing Maggie Smith.”
Steve Davis
Austin Chronicle
MONDAY, JANUARY 20
DOWNTON ABBEY
(2019)
PG | 2 hours, 9 minutes
The Crawley family is back in this grand cinematic continuation of the beloved series, and this time, the stakes are royal! When the King and Queen announce a visit to Downton Abbey, the estate is thrown into a whirlwind of excitement, preparation, and of course, drama. From dazzling gowns to polished silver, no detail is spared to welcome the monarchy—but not everyone is ready to roll out the red carpet.
And let’s talk about the true queen of Downton: Maggie Smith as the sharp-tongued, delightfully witty Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham. With her razor-sharp one-liners and impeccable timing, she steals every scene, delivering zingers that could cut glass. Whether she’s trading barbs with Isobel or delivering pearls of wisdom with a raised eyebrow, Violet reminds us all why she’s the heart (and sass) of Downton.
Filled with opulence, intrigue, and heartfelt moments, Downton Abbey is a must-watch for fans of the series and newcomers alike. Prepare for laughter, a few tears, and plenty of Dowager Countess mic-drop moments.
“From familial tensions and torrid love affairs to untimely deaths and societal shifts, the Crawleys provide a compelling look at the final days of aristocracy...”
Cady Lang
TIME Magazine
“Revelations are made, storylines from the TV show are closed and, as always, life goes on at Downton. It all feels very familiar but like a comforting cup of tea, very welcome.”
Richard Crouse
Richard Crouse