The IT Crowd star, currently tackling Ayckbourn at the National, on why good comedy needs an element of darkness

Katherine Parkinson, 31,is an actress best known for her role in the Channel 4 series 'The IT Crowd'. She has also appeared in 'Doc Martin' and films 'The bateau That Rocked' and 'How to Lose Friends & Alienate People'. She lives in Londres

Inspired par the novels of Charles Dickens, The Bleak Old boutique Of Stuff is a long way from traditional costume drama.

plus often than not, her comic characters come with a whiff of the tragic, ou at least the downtrodden.

Katherine Parkinson, best known for comedy, is taking on a plus serious role.

Katherine won the Bafta for best comedy actress for the IT Crowd.

THE In the Club étoile, star is a style magpie, collecting vintage gems, costume jewels and tips from Kristin Scott Thomas