Painting by Dame Judi Dench raises thousands for charity

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. Painting by Dame Judi Dench sold for thousands3 days ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleSofia AkinSouth EastSuppliedThe painting by Dame Judi Dench, patron of the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, sold for £6,900A painting by Dame Judi Dench has sold for £6,900 at a charity auction in Surrey. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, in Guildford, hosted the Supper With The Stars event on Wednesday, with celebrity guests including Richard Stilgoe, Isla Blair and radio DJ Peter Gordon. The online auction, which closed 22:15 BST with the successful bidder being announced shortly afterwards, was part of the charity event, with proceeds going towards the theatre's creative learning programme, which supports vulnerable members of the community.

A collar and bow tie, worn by Sir David Suchet as Poirot, also sold for £650. The painting by Dame Judi Dench, patron of the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, was completed in 2025 and was one of the last works the 91-year-old was able to paint due to her failing sight. Money raised from the watercolour of the Scottish Highlands will go towards supporting youth and community work.

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David Beal, the theatre's head of development, said: "We work with people across Surrey – families, children, people who have experienced financial barriers, young carers and those with additional needs. "We provide opportunities to engage with the theatre and arts in a broader sense – most of the money from last night will go towards that work. "SuppliedThe Albert Square sign, signed by the cast of EastEnders, was donated by star Kitty CastledineBeal says the theatre is looking to fund its new youth theatre, which is expanding in September.

He says he hopes "half the places at the youth theatre will be completely free to those participating". The auction also sold a piano lesson with Simon May, who composed the EastEnders theme tune, for £700, and an Albert Square road sign, signed by the EastEnders cast, which went for £275. The event raised over £65,000 for the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre.

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The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.