Lara was born and raised in Kent UK She studied drama with the NYMT and went on to gain a BA Hons degree in Theatre Laras extensive theatre career led her to gain a Laurence Olivier Award nomination for her portrayal of Lucille Frank in Rob Ashfords production of Parade at The Donmar Warehouse She was invited to recreate the role at The Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles opposite TR Knight Greys Anatomy gaining much critical praise Lara made her screen debut in 2008 in the BBC prime time show Robin Hood playing Isabella of Gisbourne The show is a huge international success and is airing on BBC America Saturday evening at 89c She has just completed filming the new Peter Morgan FrostNixon The Queen movie The Special Relationship starring Michael Sheen and Dennis Quaid