Early Life in New Zealand – A Childhood of Curiosity and Books

Barbara Ewing was born on January 14, 1939, in Carterton, New Zealand, and grew up in nearby Wellington alongside her two younger brothers. Her father’s work at the Ministry of Education meant the house was always filled with books, igniting Barbara’s lifelong love for reading and writing. Even as a young girl, she was drawn to storytelling, absorbing the post-war world around her and dreaming of bigger horizons beyond New Zealand’s quiet streets.

Discovering the Stage – From School Plays to RADA

Barbara attended Wellington East Girls’ College, where her passion for performance began to take shape. She balanced her academic pursuits with a deepening love of acting, influenced early on by German actress Maria Dronke, who emphasized the power of voice and rhythm. By 1962, Barbara earned a New Zealand government scholarship to study at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. Graduating in 1965 with the Bancroft Gold Medal, she had established herself as a performer of rare talent, ready to take on the world stage.

Breakthrough Roles in Film and Television

After completing her studies, Barbara dove into the British entertainment scene. Her early work included A Choice of Kings (1966) on television, but horror fans still remember her standout roles in classic 1960s films such as Torture Garden (1967) and Dracula Has Risen from the Grave (1968) alongside Christopher Lee. These performances showcased her ability to blend elegance, intensity, and vulnerability, making her a memorable figure in British cinema.

She continued to expand her repertoire with films like The Reckoning (1969), Eye of the Needle (1981), and When the Whales Came (1989). On television, she became a familiar presence in series ranging from The Sweeney and Casualty to Peak Practice and Ruth Rendell adaptations.

Television Stardom – The Role That Defined an Era

Barbara’s most widely recognized TV role came in the 1980s with the comedy series Brass, where she played Agnes Fairchild, a character known for her charm, wit, and larger-than-life presence. Week after week, audiences tuned in, captivated by her comedic timing and nuanced performances. Her portrayal left a lasting mark on British television and cemented her status as a versatile actress capable of commanding both drama and humor.

Return to New Zealand – Award-Winning Performances

Despite her success in the UK, Barbara remained connected to her roots. In the late 1970s, she returned to New Zealand to star in the TV drama Rachel, earning the Feltex Award for Best Actress in 1979. Later, she took on stage challenges such as a celebrated one-woman show portraying Russian revolutionary Alexandra Kollontai, performing at the Edinburgh Festival and Sydney Festival in 1989. Her stage work included adaptations of classics by Shaw, Ibsen, Tennessee Williams, and Shakespeare, proving her ability to inhabit any role with depth and authenticity.

A Second Career – Acclaimed Novelist

As opportunities for older actresses became limited, Barbara turned to writing, building on a foundation she had laid with her debut novel Strangers (1978). Her return to literature in the 1990s marked the beginning of a highly successful second career. Notable works include:

• The Actresses (1997)
• A Dangerous Vine (1999, long-listed for the Orange Prize)
• The Trespass (2002)
• Rosetta (2005)
• The Mesmerist (2007)
• The Fraud (2009)
• The Circus of Ghosts (2011)
• The Petticoat Men (2014, shortlisted for the Ngaio Marsh Award in 2015)

Barbara’s novels, often set in historical contexts, combine suspense, drama, and keen insights into human behavior. Translated into twelve languages, her writing solidified her reputation as a literary force in addition to her acting legacy. Her 2020 memoir, One Minute Crying Time, offered candid reflections on her formative years, personal struggles, and the complexities of life in post-war New Zealand.

Life Today – Reflection, Creativity, and Legacy

Now in her 80s, Barbara Ewing lives a quieter life based in the UK, though she frequently returns to New Zealand. She continues to write and occasionally reflects on her acting experiences, offering insight into the challenges older actresses face. Known for her warmth, intelligence, and unwavering authenticity, she channels her creative energy into writing complex characters who defy ageist stereotypes.

Barbara’s life is a testament to resilience, versatility, and self-determination. She transitioned seamlessly between continents, genres, and mediums, leaving an indelible mark on both stage and page.

Conclusion – A Life of Talent, Courage, and Reinvention

Barbara Ewing’s journey proves that true artistry is multifaceted. From her humble beginnings in Carterton to the bright lights of London theater, memorable film roles, television stardom, and a celebrated writing career, she has consistently redefined herself while staying true to her passions.

Her story demonstrates that success is not a single achievement but a series of bold choices, creative risks, and dedication to personal growth. Barbara’s legacy inspires new generations to embrace versatility, pursue their talents relentlessly, and recognize that reinvention can be a powerful tool in the pursuit of a meaningful life.

From RADA’s gold medal to Ngaio Marsh shortlists, from Hammer horror classics to historical novels, Barbara Ewing exemplifies a life of courage, intelligence, and creative mastery — a remarkable journey spanning decades and continents.