Independent, powerful, enticing and complex are just a few  of the qualities frequently associated with the infamous Egyptian Queen, Cleopatra – particularly when referring to Shakespeare’s legendary dramatised portrayal. The character in question has been played by many distinguished performers in the past, both on the stage and on the screen, but what is it exactly about this female protagonist, which despite outdated references and her archaic circumstance still successfully speaks to modern women?

In an event called Cleopatra: Not the Usual Passion Assigned to a Woman, London’s Southbank Centre invites Theatre Director Janet Suzman, Actress Kim Cattrall and the organisation’s very own Artistic Director Jude Kelly, to discuss what Suzman states as being “the most interesting role for a woman ever written”. Having had experience of both acting and directing the role, Suzman’s relationship with Cleopatra lies particularly close to the heart. Next month sees the return of her take on the Shakespeare classic, which first starred the Sex and The City actress, Kim Cattrall back in 2010.

Scheduled for this Sunday, the talk forms a series of events taking place over the next couple of weeks as part of this year’s Meltdown Festival, curated by musician and artist, Antony Hegarty.

For more information and to book tickets visit southbankcentre.co.uk