The Lady in the Van 2015

In 1970, writer Alan Bennett (played by a thoughtful, introspective individual) relocates to Camden’s affluent suburbs. It is here that he encounters Miss Mary Shepherd, an enigmatic, eccentric, and unsanitary homeless woman who dwells in a dilapidated Bedford van, squatting outside multiple residences on Gloucester Crescent. As her presence becomes more ingrained in the community, social workers regularly visit her, while neighbors occasionally bring her gifts or sustenance.

One fateful day, two rowdy youths inadvertently shatter Miss Shepherd’s tranquility, as they frighten her and shake her van, awakening her from a vivid nightmare involving an ancient traffic accident. This unsettling incident prompts Alan to ponder the welfare of his new acquaintance, leading him to propose that she park in his driveway. Initially hesitant, he eventually secures a replacement van for her through a sympathetic neighbor, allowing Miss Shepherd to settle into his driveway, where she remains for 15 years (1974-1989).

Throughout this period, Alan juggling his writing career with the responsibility of caring for his increasingly invalid mother. As much as he may deny having any emotional investment in those around him, he begins to realize that a profound connection has developed between himself and Miss Shepherd. He discovers her remarkable proficiency in French, which she acquired during her time spent studying piano in Paris. Notably, this is at odds with her intense aversion to all forms of music. When asked about the origin of this aversion, she recounts her experience as a novice nun when she began playing a classical piece on the piano and was subsequently forbidden from doing so again.

As Alan delves deeper into Miss Shepherd’s past, he uncovers a tapestry of intriguing experiences: driving an ambulance during the 1939 blackout in World War II, performing Chopin at The Proms, and attempting to become a nun twice. Moreover, she reveals her given name: Margaret Fairchild. A recurring, mysterious figure appears at her van, causing her fear with regular visits; she frequently bestows him with monetary gifts.

Upon Miss Shepherd’s eventual relocation to a day centre, Alan seizes the opportunity to travel to Broadstairs and meet with this enigmatic individual who has been a frequent visitor in her life. To his surprise, he learns that this man is actually her brother. He recounts how he had previously institutionalized Mary at Banstead, only for her to escape shortly thereafter. Moreover, she studied under the renowned pianist Alfred Cortot during her time as a nun.

As Bennett returns to his humble abode, he’s met with an unexpected reunion - Shepherd’s van has reappeared, its presence a poignant reminder of their unconventional bond. It transpires that Shepherd had fled Banstead after a chance encounter with a familiar woman left her shaken, and had seized the opportunity to play the piano at the community centre. However, this respite from her troubles was short-lived, as she confided in Bennett about her confessor’s decree that playing the piano would stunt her spiritual growth.

As Shepherd’s van becomes a fixture on Bennett’s driveway once more, the old man can’t help but feel a sense of unease wash over him. Before he retreats into his home, Shepherd asks to hold his hand, and Bennett acquiesces, sensing an unspoken urgency in her request. It’s not long after this tender moment that Shepherd passes away peacefully in her van, leaving behind a legacy of memories and unfinished stories.

The sombre tones of Shepherd’s funeral reveal the tragic circumstances of her final days. In the aftermath of a devastating accident involving a motorcyclist whose life she believed she had taken, Shepherd fled the scene, haunted by the fear of arrest for the remainder of her days.

In the days that follow, Bennett finds solace in putting pen to paper and crafting a memoir that chronicles his 20-year friendship with the enigmatic Shepherd. As he reflects on their shared experiences, he’s afforded a glimpse into the complexities of a woman who defied convention at every turn.

As the cameras roll, capturing the final scene of this poignant tale, the real Alan Bennett watches with wistful eyes as his younger self unveils a blue plaque dedicated to “Miss M.T Shepherd, The Lady in the Van”.