She came for 3 weeks and stayed for 15 years.

The Lady in the Van tells the story of Mary Shepherd, drawing on Alan Bennetts own memoirs. The play was first performed at the National Theatre in 1999 and later adapted into a successful film, starring Maggie Smith as Miss Shepherd. As with the film, the two Alan Bennetts demonstrate the conflict between the inner and outer persona as the relationship between Bennett and Miss Shepherd develops over 15 years. There are many moments of sheer joy and laughter throughout, as well as some more poignant moments of reflection.