Angela Lansbury with her Freo cousin-in-law Sheila. Photo supplied

ANGELA LANSBURY is in Perth to play the lead in Driving Miss Daisy but will detour to Fremantle for some fish and chips with the colonial side of the family.

“We have planned a casual family day,” cousin-in-law Sheila Lansbury told the Herald.

The local real estate legend’s husband Philip and his brother David are the actor’s first cousins.

The extended family last gathered together two years ago when patriarch and social reformer George Lansbury, who died in 1940, was recognised posthumously for his pioneering work.

“We are talking of children down mines, no schooling, women fighting for recognition by having a vote,” Sheila says. ‘’He was working with Emmeline Pankhurst to give women the vote.”

When Philip and David’s parents emigrated after the war the tyranny of distance reduced communication. The 87-year-old actor’s role in the play is a rare opportunity for a family gathering.

“We never dreamed she would actually visit WA,” Sheila says.

The pair hit it off when they first met and have remained in touch via email: “I found her to be a lady of great intelligence, integrity, passion and moreover a woman who is proud of her Lansbury name and heritage,” Sheila says. Being Fremantle folk, this week’s visit will focus on the port city.

“We will be showing her Fremantle with a special trip to the migrant wall to see the plaque with her beloved Uncle Eric’s [Philip’s dad] name engraved on it,” Sheila says.

by JENNY D’ANGER