RULA LENSKA CHISWICK LONDON 10th OCTOBER 2025

Rula Lenska, Chiswick, London. 10th October 2025.
In the second half of the interview, Rula is joined by her former Rock Follies band mate Ray Russell.

Rula Lenska, born Róża Maria Leopoldyna Łubieńska on September 30, 1947, is primarily known as a British actress of Polish descent, with a career spanning television, film, and stage. However, her involvement in music, while not her primary focus, is notable, particularly through her role in the British TV series Rock Follies (1976–1977)

Lenska’s most significant contribution to music came through her role as Nancy "Q" Cunard de Longchamps in the BAFTA Award winning British TV drama Rock Follies (1976) and its sequel, Rock Follies of '77 (1977). The series followed a fictional female rock band, the Little Ladies, navigating the music industry. Lenska’s character was a key member of the band.
The songs for Rock Follies were composed by Andy Mackay, a founding member of Roxy Music, arranged by Ray Russell with lyrics by Howard Schuman. The series’ soundtrack was a major success, reaching No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart, notably surpassing a Led Zeppelin album. This achievement was a significant highlight.

The Rock Follies albums, featuring performances by Lenska and her co-stars, included tracks like “OK,” “The Things We Have to Do,” “Wolf at the Door,” and “The Real Thing,” which were well-received by fans.

Stage and Musical Performances
Lenska performed in the musical *A Little Night Music*, playing the role of Desiree.
In 2007, she toured with Marti Webb and Sheila Ferguson in the musical Hot Flush
She has also performed in pantomimes, where she took on roles as the Principal Boy, often involving singing.

Television and commercials.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Lenska became known in the United States for a series of commercials for Alberto VO5 hairspray, where she was introduced as the "internationally known and acclaimed actress".

Soap operas: She has had roles in multiple popular British soap operas:
Coronation Street: She played Claudia Colby on and off between 2009 and 2018.
EastEnders: She appeared as Krystal in four episodes in 2002.
Casualty : She played the role of Vera Vintner
Doctor Who: Her work in the Doctor Who universe includes a role in the episode "Resurrection of the Daleks" and voice work in the AudioGO production Hornets' Nest.

Radio and Audiobook Work.
Lenska’s distinctive voice, noted for its depth and slight Eastern European accent, led to roles in radio and audiobook narration that intersect with her musical persona. She played Lintilla and her clones, as well as the Guide Mk II, in the radio series The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
She narrated audiobooks, including the novelization of The Happiness Patrol for BBC Audio, and presented travel programs for BBC Radio, leveraging her vocal talents.