''National treasure? I hate that. Too dusty, too in a cupboard, too behind glass, too staid ... What I love is being part of a company. On stage I am not trying to be myself, I''m trying to be someone else, the more unlike me the better.''

From her first theatrical roles as a teenager in York to her scene-stealing performances as ''M'' in the James Bond films, Dame Judi Dench''s professional life has consisted of non-stop acting, leading to numerous accolades, including an Academy Award.

BEHIND THE SCENES is a uniquely personal take on Dame Judi''s life and brilliant career, showing her off stage as well as on: in the wings, off sets, in dressing rooms and happily larking about. Beautifully illustrated with photographs from her own collections, here are reflections and reminiscences on those who have mattered to her most - her family, fellow actors, directors and writers - communicated with the truth and insight of her acting.