SATURDAY 16 JANUARY 2021
SAT 00:00 The Routemasters by Andrew McGibbon (b007jnsh)
4. Wolfie and Beetie
Raymond and Hildegard kidnap Beethoven and Mozart in their plot to create the greatest ever rock band.
Herr Grubberman comes clean, while Bernie finally discovers the truth about who - or what- is driving the time bus.
Starring Amanda Donohoe as Hilderghast, Andrew McGibbon as Raymond, Karl Minns as the Conductor, Owen Evans as Bernie, Nick Romero as Mozart, Andy Mulligan as Herr Grubberman, Dan Freedman as Glenn Miller, Alex Lowe as Taffy and Sophie Aldred as Spikea.
Written by Andrew McGibbon. Additional material by Rob Colley and Kevin Greening.
Theme by Ozzy Temple and other music by Nick Romero.
Producer: Julian Mayers
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1999.
SAT 00:30 Off the Page (b00hlbp4)
Organisation
Dominic Arkwright chairs a discussion on the word 'organisation' with former director general of the British Council Sir David Green, punk poet Attila the Stockbroker and writer Jay Griffiths.
SAT 01:00 Bulldog Drummond by Sapper (b00nnpb3)
5. Godalming
The ex-officer heads to Godalming to protect Phyllis. And are the Duchess' pearls safe? Read by Julian Rhind-Tutt.
SAT 01:30 Cadfael (b007jldz)
The Virgin in the Ice
5. Discoveries
Detective monk Brother Cadfael discovers outlaws have taken Ives Hugonin prisoner.
Conclusion starring Philip Madoc as Brother Cadfael.
Written by Ellis Peters and dramatised by Bert Coules.
Brother Cadfael ...... Philip Madoc
Narrator ...... Sir Michael Hordern
Ermina ...... Moira Buffini
Leonard ...... Leonard Fenton
Hugh ...... Douglas Hodge
Le Gaucher ...... Peter Laird
Ives ...... Dean Magri
Elyas ...... Crispin Letts
Axeman ...... Peter Gunn
Boterel ...... Andrew Wincott
Other parts played by the cast.
Music by Peter Salem.
Producer: Phil Clarke.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1992.
SAT 02:00 Robb Wilton: I Should Say So (b01lk6wp)
Series 1
The Bigamist
Robb Wilton (1881-1957) was one of the most popular music hall and radio comics of the 1930s and 1940s.
Famed as an all-round pessimist - what would he have made of 1980s Britain - trying to solve a tricky marital problem?
Michael Williams stars as Robb Wilton - making as little sense out of life as he did 40 years before...
Written by Allen Saddler.
Produced at BBC Bristol by Brian Miller
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1986.
SAT 02:15 Gregory Evans - Blood and Milk (b07qc3g7)
Series 1
Episode 10
Things come to a head when Meg makes an offer to predatory dairyman Iolo Jones and Annie confronts the creepy Madog Prys. Last in the series.
Megan Evans ….. Bettrys Jones
Samuel Singer ….. David Horovitch
Annie Riley ….. Alice Haig
Nance Barker ….. Clare Perkins
Madog Prys ….. James Lailey
Iolo Jones ….. Nick Underwood
Moses Lipski ….. Brian Protheroe
Sergeant Fred Wensley ….. Jason Barnett
by Gregory Evans
Directed by Marc Beeby
In 1900 over half London's milk came from Welsh dairies. One of those dairies, on the Commercial Road, was owned and run by the writer’s family.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2016.
SAT 02:30 The Perfumed Mountaineer (b01hf12x)
Hayden Lorimer explores the double life of Walter Poucher: mountain photographer and perfumer.
Poucher invented the perfume 'Bond Street' and also wrote upland guidebooks. He was a pioneer of mountain photography from the 1930s onwards and devised guidebooks that used photos to help hillwalkers and climbers. But he had a second life as well - in 1923 he had published a three volume handbook on perfumes and cosmetics that remains in print and, working for the perfumers Yardley, he invented one of their signature smells, the perfume Bond Street. These unlikely twin lives came together when he field tested his fragrances and make-up across the hills and fells of Britain. Sweaty mountaineers were not quite sure what to make of Walter but he resolutely and happily continued to mix his two lives and interests. In a celebrated moment of TV history in 1980 the pop singer Grace Jones attacked the chat show host Russell Harty live on air, the other guest on camera at the time was a befuddled looking Walter Poucher.
Yet when it came to staging and managing your life Walter perhaps was ahead of the game and knew things that would have surprised both Grace Jones and Russell Harty. Here was a metrosexual man decades before he was supposed to have evolved. Hayden Lorimer, geographer at Glasgow University and committed hill-runner, explores the life and times of the Perfumed Mountaineer.
Producer: Tim Dee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2012.
SAT 03:00 Drama (b08n22rp)
The Hours by Michael Cunningham
Episode 2
The Pulitzer winning book by Michael Cunningham inspired by Virginia Woolf's Mrs Dalloway. Starring Rosamund Pike, Fenella Woolgar and Teresa Gallagher.
Three very separate women. They live in different locations and different eras but they are bound by their passion for Virginia Woolf's novel Mrs Dalloway. As they experience life on a Tuesday in June, their thoughts and experiences echo each other and become intertwined.
In Richmond in 1923, Virginia Woolf (Fenella Woolgar) sits down to write a novel calling her heroine Mrs Dalloway. In Los Angeles in 1949, Laura (Teresa Gallagher) sits in bed reading Mrs Dalloway. In New York in the 1990s, Clarissa (Rosamund Pike) goes out to buy flowers for a party mirroring the start of the day for the fictional Mrs Dalloway. The party is for her best friend Richard who long ago dubbed her Mrs Dalloway.
Weaving together themes of bisexuality, mental illness, middle age, the trials of creativity, parental guilt, marital discord, suburban isolation, infertility, friendship and loss - the three stories become one.
In the second and concluding episode, Virginia, Laura and Clarissa all experience conflict between their need to be free and their domestic responsibilities and ties. Virginia Woolf creates a pivotal moment when Mrs Dalloway sees a book in a shop window open at a page with a song from Shakespeare's Cymbeline. It haunts her - and it haunts Laura and Clarissa too. As their stories become interwoven there more and more parallels.
Michael Cunningham's enormously popular and critically successful book won the 1999 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and inspired the film starring Nicole Kidman. He called his story The Hours because that was a title that Virginia Woolf had considered. He says Mrs Dalloway was a huge influence on his life because he read the novel as a response to a dare when he was 15 and then decided to be a writer.
Sony Award winning writer Frances Byrnes adapted the book for radio.
Cast:
Vanessa/Sally .... Lia Williams
Virginia .... Fenella Woolgar
Laura ….Teresa Gallagher
Richie … Jack Towbin
Clarissa …. Rosamund Pike
Julia … Haley McGee
Walter/Dan ….Corey Johnson
Leonard …. David Annen
Nelly …. Rachel Atkins
Composer: Gene Pritsker
Pianist: Carollyn Eden
Sound Design: Steve Bond
Adapted for radio by Frances Byrnes
Directed by Judith Kampfner and Polly Thomas
Produced by Judith Kampfner
Executive Producer Celia De Wolff
A Corporation For Independent Media production
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2017.
SAT 04:00 The Personality Test (b007tzff)
Series 3
Toyah Willcox
Pop sensation and actress Toyah Willcox is in the hot seat posing questions all about her.
Tackling the ultra-personal quiz are Sue Perkins, Caroline Quinlan, Robin Ince and Will Smith.
Comedy quiz presented by a new guest host every show. All the questions are about them.
Script by Simon Littlefield and Kieron Quirke.
Devised and produced by Aled Evans.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2007.
SAT 04:30 Bristow (b007r031)
Series 2
When Melancholy Autumn Comes to Chester-Perry
The promise of a Christmas bonus lifts Bristow's spirits - for once, his generosity knows no bounds... But then he takes matters into his own hands when it becomes clear that a bonus for Chester Perry staff isn't forthcoming.
Michael Williams stars as Bristow, the buying clerk from Frank Dickens' famous newspaper cartoon strip. Syndicated internationally, it ran for 41 years in London's Evening Standard.
Bristow ...... Michael Williams
Jones ...... Rodney Bewes
Jonathan Quartly ...... Bernard Cribbins
Mrs Purdy ...... Dora Bryan
Hewitt ...... Owen Brenman
Molly ...... Sheila Reid
Rupert Clement ...... Royce Mills
Miss Sunman ...... Katy Odey
Richard Blobb ...... Norman Bird
Miss Golightly ...... Lucy Akhurst
Postboy ...... Simon Schatzberger
Receptionist ...... Zeena Eate
Music composed and performed by John Whitehall.
Producer: Neil Cargill
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1999.
SAT 05:00 Dot (b071skpf)
Series 1
The Extraordinary Example of the Ha'penny Exchange
A little East End snotling has infiltrated the Cabinet War Rooms. But Dot's got important propaganda work to do.
How will she dispose of the little gremlin, whilst simultaneously concocting a stirring, yet pithy slogan for the war effort? For King and country, she'll bally well try!
Comic adventures with Dot and the gals from personnel in the rollicking wartime comedy by Ed Harris.
Dot ..... Fenella Woolgar
Myrtle ..... Kate O'Flynn
Peg ..... Freya Parker
Millicent ..... Jane Slavin
Peabody ..... David Acton
Ha'penny ..... Alicia Ambrose-Bayly
Matron ..... Susan Jameson
Right Honourable Washtunrub ..... Sean Baker
Director: Jessica Mitic
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2016.
SAT 05:30 Stand-Up Specials (m000r31x)
Kiri Pritchard-McLean: Egg-sistential Crisis
Stand-up Kiri Pritchard-Mclean brings a special show to BBC Radio 4 all about millennials and why they have stopped procreating.
Producer: Suzy Grant
BBC Studios Production
SAT 06:00 Anthony Hope - The Prisoner Of Zenda (b01qkm4l)
The great swashbuckling story of the English gentleman Rudolf Rassendyll and his adventures in the East European province of Ruritania. Epic historical tale of subterfuge and doppelgangers.
Starring Julian Glover as King Rudolf/Rudolf Rassendyll, Nigel Stock as Colonel Sapt, Hannah Gordon as Princess Flavia and Martin Jarvis as Rupert of Hentzau.
Adapted by Eric Maschwitz and Kay Patrick
Original music (1939) by Robert Chignell and Leslie Woodgate
Cast:
Rudolf Rassendyll / King Rudolf .... Julian Glover
Colonel Sapt .... Nigel Stock
Princess Flavia .... Hannah Gordon
Count Fritz .... David Timson
Rupert of Hentzau .... Martin Jarvis
Duke Michael .... Michael Spice
Antoinette de Mauban .... Anne Kidd
Lord Burlesdon .... Clive Swift
Lady Rose Burlesdon/ Innkeeper .... Diana Bishop
Countess Helga .... Hilda Schroder
Rosa .... Cherry Gilliam
Captain Detchard .... Terry Scully
Johann .... Sam Dastor
Josef .... Haydn Jones
Train guard .... William Sleigh
Bersonin .... David Gooderson
Customs officer .... Brian Haines
Producer: Martin Jenkins
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1973.
SAT 07:30 Great Lives (b06wd26b)
Series 38
Nitin Sawhney on Jeff Buckley
Musician and performer Nitin Sawhney champions the life of Jeff Buckley who he regards as a genius singer, songwriter.
The expert is Steve Abbott who was a friend of Buckley's and released his debut record.
Presenter: Matthew Parris
Producer: Perminder Khatkar.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2016.
SAT 08:00 All the Way from Memphis (b00mpqkn)
Series 2
Episode 6
James Walton tests and tickles the knowledge of industry pundits and people passionate about pop music.
Team captains Tracey MacLeod and Andrew Collins are joined by Clare Grogan and Danny Kelly to be put through their musical paces
Reader: Beth Chalmers
Written and researched by James Walton
Producer: Dawn Ellis
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2006.
SAT 08:30 Rent (b00752fm)
Series 3
Episode 3
It's havoc in the Reynolds household as the preparations for the baby's naming ceremony reach a climax.
Series 3 of Lucy Flannery's award-winning sitcom about Maria and Richard Reynolds and their lodgers.
Stars Barbara Flynn as Maria, Patrick Barlow as Richard, Linda Polan as Amy, Vivienne Rochester as Ruby, Dave Lamb as Paul, Sally Grace as Mother and Chris Emmett as Father.
Producer: Liz Anstee.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1997.
SAT 09:00 Miriam Margolyes' Adventures in Radio (b07qcf7j)
Much-loved actress Miriam Margolyes looks back over her radio lives, choosing some of her favourite performances from the BBC Radio Archive.
Despite winning awards (BAFTA), Miriam’s on the record as saying she has many regrets in her stage career, but when it comes to her radio back catalogue, she’s immensely proud. Since she joined the BBC Radio Drama Repertory Company in 1965 – radio has been a true love.
Miriam's choices include:
* Sentimental Journey (Radio 4 1999) where she made an emotional trip to Belarus, with Arthur Smith to find out more about her family history;
* After Albert (Radio 4 1996) where she plays a feisty Queen Victoria, with surprising desires, after the death of Prince Albert;
* The Queen and I (Radio 4, 1992) in a Sony Radio Academy Best Actress winning performance, Miriam brings to life Sue Townsend’s (Adrian Mole) comic tale about the House of Windsor, whose members are rather down on their luck;
* The Child (1979, Radio 4) where she stars in Olwen Wymark’s sensitive story about a mother caring for her daughter who has profound mental health issues;
* Dickens’ Women (Radio 4, 1991) Miriam chooses a favourite character, Miss Havisham, from her celebrated one-woman show stage show, recorded for Radio 4;
* The Picnic (Radio 3, 1985) Miriam stars with Timothy West in Anthony Horowitz’s powerful story based on a real event in the Soviet Union in 1981;
* Singular Women, (Radio 4, 1997) Miriam becomes Stella, the manageress of a chocolate shop, demonstrating the power of the radio monologue to create a magical link of imaginations between an actor, a character and the listener.
Producer: Peter McHugh
Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in August 2016.
SAT 12:00 The Jack Benny Program (m000rcxw)
I Was Betrayed
The cast plead to be paid before performing in a medical drama.
On radio, The Jack Benny Show ran from February 1932 to May 1955. From that date, new shows were produced for television but there were re-runs on radio until 1958. Over the years, the programme was sponsored by a diverse range of products from jelly, to tyres and cigarettes.
With a fine cast of supporting players Benny made his show into one of the all-time great radio comedies, portraying him as likeable character, despite being vain, argumentative and a skinflint. It’s classic comedy that stood the test of time.
With Eddie Anderson as the irrepressible Rochester, Mary Livingstone, Dennis Day, The Sportsmen Quartet, announcer Don Wilson and orchestra conducted by Bob Crosby.
First broadcast on the Columbia Broadcasting System in January 1950.
SAT 12:30 Round the Horne (b00j05vh)
Series 1
Episode 1
The bona beginnings of one of the BBC's most popular comedies. The story so far, the BBC's Backroom Boys and part one of The Clissold Saga.
Starring Kenneth Horne. With Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden and Bill Pertwee.
Recorded at the BBC's Paris Studio in Lower Regent Street, London. Announcer: Douglas Smith
Round The Horne was born out of the demise of BBC radio comedy Beyond Our Ken, after the end of writer Eric Merriman's involvement. Using the same cast and producer, Barry Took and Marty Feldman were persuaded to write the scripts - which led to four series that ran between 1965 and 1968 - packed full of parodies, recurring characters, catchphrases and double-entendres.
Music by Edwin Braden and the Hornblowers and The Fraser Hayes Four.
Producer: John Simmonds
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in March 1965.
SAT 13:00 Cadfael (b007jlcr)
The Virgin in the Ice
1. Casualties of War
Shrewsbury, Winter in the year 1139: Amid a civil war, medieval sleuth Brother Cadfael sets out to find a missing boy and his sister.
Starring Philip Madoc as Brother Cadfael.
Written by Ellis Peters and dramatised in five parts by Bert Coules.
Narrator … Sir Michael Hordern
Brother Cadfael … Philip Madoc
Hugh Beringar …. Douglas Hodge
Leonard …. Leonard Fenton
Olivier …. Raad Rawi
Ermina …. Moira Buffini
Ives …. Dean Magri
Elyas …. Crispin Letts
Abbot Radulfus …. John Church
Other parts played by Jonathan Tafler, Steve Hodson, Eric Allen, Julian Rhind-Tutt and David Holt.
Music by Peter Salem.
Producer: Phil Clarke.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1992.
SAT 13:30 Cadfael (b007jld1)
The Virgin in the Ice
2. Danger From All Sides
Amid bitter civil war in 1139, detective monk Brother Cadfael makes headway in his medieval crime hunt, but it's mixed news.
Starring Philip Madoc as Brother Cadfael.
Written by Ellis Peters and dramatised by Bert Coules.
Brother Cadfael ...... Philip Madoc
Narrator ...... Sir Michael Hordern
Boterel ...... Andrew Wincott
Leonard ...... Leonard Fenton
Elyas ...... Crispin Letts
Ives ...... Dean Magri
Hugh ...... Douglas Hodge
Ermina ...... Moira Buffini
Olivier ...... Raad Rawi
Other parts played by Jonathan Tafler, John Fleming, Kate Binchy
Music by Peter Salem.
Producer: Phil Clarke.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1992.
SAT 14:00 Cadfael (b007jldd)
The Virgin in the Ice
3. Found and Lost
As the 1139 English civil war rages in Shropshire, monk-cum-sleuth, Brother Cadfael's brave search for Ermina leads him to the isolated medieval manor of Ledditch.
Starring Philip Madoc as Brother Cadfael.
Written by Ellis Peters and dramatised by Bert Coules.
Brother Cadfael ...... Philip Madoc
Narrator ...... Sir Michael Hordern
Boterel ...... Andrew Wincott
Leonard ...... Leonard Fenton
Elyas ...... Crispin Letts
Ives ...... Dean Magri
Porter ...... Steve Hodson
Hugh ...... Douglas Hodge
Ermina ...... Moira Buffini
Dutton ...... Eric Allan
Music by Peter Salem.
Producer: Phil Clarke.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1992.
SAT 14:30 Cadfael (b007jldr)
The Virgin in the Ice
4. The Wolves' Nest
Brother Cadfael searches for Ives Hugonin and Brother Elyas who are missing in a blizzard.
Starring Philip Madoc as Brother Cadfael.
Written by Ellis Peters and dramatised by Bert Coules.
Brother Cadfael ...... Philip Madoc
Narrator ...... Sir Michael Hordern
Ermina ...... Moira Buffini
Leonard ...... Leonard Fenton
Hugh ...... Douglas Hodge
Le Gaucher ...... Peter Laird
Ives ...... Dean Magri
Olivier ...... Raad Raw
Outlaw ...... Jonathan Adams
Soldier ...... Steve Hodson
Sergeant ...... Jonathan Tafler
Other parts played by the cast.
Music by Peter Salem.
Producer: Phil Clarke.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1992.
SAT 15:00 Cadfael (b007jldz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
01:30 today]
SAT 15:30 A Good Read (b0128q6y)
Fay Weldon and Louise Welsh
Fay Weldon, Louise Welsh and Harriett Gilbert discuss favourite books by Lionel Shriver, HG Wells and Jean Rhys.
Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys
Publisher: Penguin
Fay Weldon's choice: The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells
Publisher: Penguin
We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver
Publisher: Serpent's Tail
Producer: Beth O'Dea
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2011.
SAT 16:00 Anthony Hope - The Prisoner Of Zenda (b01qkm4l)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
SAT 17:30 Great Lives (b06wd26b)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
SAT 18:00 Jules Verne (m000rcxz)
The Mysterious Island
Three very different people escape the American Civil war by stealing a balloon - which crashes near a deserted island. But perhaps it is not quite as deserted as they think it is...
Cyrus Harding ...... Nathan Osgood
Grace Spilett ...... Kerry Gooderson
Neb ...... Tayla Kovacevic-Ebong
Tom Ayrton ...... Rupert Holliday Evans
Captain Nemo ...... Sagar Arya
Written by Jules Verne
Dramatised by Gregory Evans
Directed by Marc Beeby
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2018.
SAT 19:00 Miriam Margolyes' Adventures in Radio (b07qcf7j)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
SAT 22:00 I Think I've Got a Problem (b007xvrp)
Series 1
Episode 3
Tom gets a job as an international courier and has to deliver a package to a contact in Spain.
However, after his "imaginary" band spark mayhem on the plane, Tom and Sadie find themselves caught up in a world of death and deception.
Still, if a good song won't cheer them all up, nothing will.
Andrew McGibbon and Nick Romero's everyday story about a man who can't stop himself from breaking into song.
Suggs ..... Tom Caine
Bob Monkhouse ..... Dr Boone
Mika Simmons ..... Sadie
Phil Cornwell ..... Bouche
Michael Roberts ..... Clammy Clemence
Andrew McGibbon ..... Jake
Nick Romero ..... Monty DeVere
Emma Clarke ..... Air Stewardess
Songs: Andrew McGibbon. Nick Romero and Suggs
Director: Chris Neill
Producers: Torquil MacLeod. Julian Mayers and Andrew McGibbon.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2001.
SAT 22:30 What Does the K Stand For? (b04xrl8k)
Series 2
Balham's Got Talent
Who’s got talent?
Stephen K Amos's sitcom about growing up black, gay and funny in 1980s south London.
Written by Jonathan Harvey with Stephen K Amos.
Stephen K Amos … Stephen K Amos
Young Stephen … Shaquille Ali-Yebuah
Stephanie Amos … Fatou Sohna
Virginia Amos … Ellen Thomas
Vincent Amos … Don Gilet
Miss Bliss … Michelle Butterly
Jayson Jackson … Frankie Wilson
Mary ... Nadia Kamil
Producer: Colin Anderson
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2015.
SAT 23:00 Mark Steel's in Town (b07vs3mw)
Series 7
Hebden Bridge
"That was So Hebden Bridge"
Mark visits the beautiful Yorkshire town of Hebden Bridge, where he discovers how this former mill town and one time home of Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath become the new age, multi cafe, hippie friendly, lesbian capital of Britain that it is today.
Mark Steel's award winning show that travels around the country, researching the history, heritage and culture of six towns that have nothing in common but their uniqueness, and performs a bespoke evening of comedy for the local residents.
Written and performed by ... Mark Steel
Additional material by ... Pete Sinclair
Production co-ordinator ... Hayley Stirling
Producer ... Carl Cooper
A BBC Radio Comedy production first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2019.
SAT 23:30 4 at the Store (b00ddx9h)
Series 2
Episode 4
Stand-up at London's Comedy Store with host Simon Bligh, Andrew Maxwell, Pierre Hollins and Simon Evans. From January 2002.
SUNDAY 17 JANUARY 2021
SUN 00:00 Jules Verne (m000rcxz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:00 on Saturday]
SUN 01:00 Cadfael (b007jlcr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
13:00 on Saturday]
SUN 01:30 Cadfael (b007jld1)
[Repeat of broadcast at
13:30 on Saturday]
SUN 02:00 Cadfael (b007jldd)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:00 on Saturday]
SUN 02:30 Cadfael (b007jldr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:30 on Saturday]
SUN 03:00 Cadfael (b007jldz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
01:30 on Saturday]
SUN 03:30 A Good Read (b0128q6y)
[Repeat of broadcast at
15:30 on Saturday]
SUN 04:00 Anthony Hope - The Prisoner Of Zenda (b01qkm4l)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 on Saturday]
SUN 05:30 Great Lives (b06wd26b)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 on Saturday]
SUN 06:00 Robb Wilton: I Should Say So (Omnibus) (m000rbj0)
If Robb Wilton were brought back to life from his heyday as one of Britain's most popular music hall and radio comics of the 1930s and 1940s, what would his pessimistic personality reflect on now?
Michael Williams stars as legendary 1940s radio star and all-round pessimist Robb Wilton.
Well, here he is, making as little sense out of life now as he did forty years ago...
Written by Allen Saddler.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 1986.
SUN 07:10 Inheritance Tracks (b073gtrg)
Joan Baez
American folk singer Joan Baez chooses 'Tonerna' sung by Jussi Bjorling and her own song 'Diamonds and Rust'.
SUN 07:20 Gregory Evans - Blood and Milk (b07s3hmb)
Series 1 Omnibus, Part 2/2
Thrilling series set in 1890s Whitechapel. Welsh farm girl Megan Evans comes to London to visit her brother who is running the family's dairy business - but her brother is strangely unwelcoming.
Megan Evans ….. Bettrys Jones
Luc Evans ….. Trystan Gravelle
Samuel Singer ….. David Horovitch
Moses Lipski ….. Brian Protheroe
Annie Riley ….. Alice Haig
by Gregory Evans
Directed by Marc Beeby
In 1900 over half London's milk came from Welsh dairies. One of those dairies, on the Commercial Road, was owned and run by the writer’s family.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2016.
SUN 08:30 PG Wodehouse (b00bfq14)
What Ho! Jeeves: Joy in the Morning
Sundry Happenings in a Garden
Bertie Wooster must mend bridges after the debacle of the fake burglary.
PG Wodehouse romp adapted in seven-parts by Chris Miller.
Starring Michael Hordern as Jeeves, Richard Briers as Bertie Wooster, Jonathan Cecil as Boko Fittleworth, Peter Woodthorpe as Percy, Lord Worplesden, Bronwen Williams as Florence Craye and Denise Bryer as Edwin the Boy Scout.
Producer: Simon Brett
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1978.
SUN 09:00 The TV Lark (b01b3flq)
Z Ambulances
A live drama serial could make money for Troutbridge TV. But can they manage to produce it?
After 4 series of 'The Navy Lark', the BBC decided the comedy crew needed a new setting, so where better than brand new independent station, Troutbridge TV?
However, after just 10 episodes, this proved to be only a temporary change of course for the crew of HMS Troutbridge - as the crew were soon back aboard 'The Navy Lark'.
Stars Jon Pertwee as the Floor Manager, Leslie Phillips as The Director, Stephen Murray as the Producer, Ronnie Barker as Fatso Johnson and Richard Caldicote as the Deputy Controller.
Scripted by Lawrie Wyman
Producer: Alastair Scott Johnston.
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in February 1963 .
SUN 09:30 Robin and Wendy's Wet Weekends (b007jzkw)
Series 2
Them and Us
Joy and consternation as Wendy is promoted at work, but Robin is suspended. Stars Kay Stonham and Simon Greenall. From May 2003.
SUN 10:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m000rbj2)
Comic Castaways
David Baddiel
David Baddiel is a comedian and writer. Known both for his solo work and for his comedic collaborations with, among others, Rob Newman and Frank Skinner, he has also written a screenplay, a musical and several books. Born in 1964 to Jewish parents, the second of three boys, he was brought up in Dollis Hill, London. His father was a scientist from Swansea and his mother was a refugee, whose family had to flee from Nazi Germany. When David was 13, his older brother Ivor played him sketches by Derek and Clive which kindled his appetite to become a comedian.
He read English at Cambridge and became vice-president of the Footlights before starting out on the London comedy circuit. Together with Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis and Rob Newman, he was part of The Mary Whitehouse Experience for Radio 1 and later BBC 2. Rob and David went on to create Newman and Baddiel in Pieces, and were the first comedians to sell out Wembley Arena with a gig in 1993, prompting newspapers to declare comedy "the new rock 'n' roll". David then formed a comedy partnership with Frank Skinner and they hosted Fantasy Football League and later Baddiel and Skinner Unplanned. They co-wrote the lyrics to one of the best-known football songs, Three Lions.
In 2005, David took a break from performance and concentrated on writing novels for adults and children's books as well as the script for a film, which became a musical, The Infidel. He returned to stand-up in 2013 with a show about fame. He recently mined his parents' idiosyncrasies and the rare form of dementia from which his father suffers for a stand-up show entitled My Family: Not the Sitcom. His partner is fellow comedian and writer Morwenna Banks. They have two teenage children.
Presenter: Kirsty Young
Producer: Cathy Drysdale.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2018.
SUN 10:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00m45d2)
Series 1
Faking Fossils
Sir David recalls a key moment in his life, when he broke open a piece of Leicestershire limestone and there in his hand was an ammonite.
Over the intervening years, fossils have fascinated him and he has become a great collector, even of the odd fake.
Series of talks by Sir David Attenborough on the natural histories of creatures and plants from around the world.
Producer: Julian Hector
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2009
SUN 11:00 The Moth Radio Hour (m0007013)
Series 9
The Ties That Bind
True stories told live in the USA: Catherine Burns introduces tales of the struggles, support and safety that family provides.
The Moth is an acclaimed not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling based in the USA. Since 1997, it has celebrated both the raconteur and the storytelling novice, who has lived through something extraordinary and yearns to share it. Originally formed by the writer George Dawes Green as an intimate gathering of friends on a porch in Georgia (where moths would flutter in through a hole in the screen), and then recreated in a New York City living room, The Moth quickly grew to produce immensely popular events at theatres and clubs around New York City and later around the USA, the UK and other parts of the world.
The Moth has presented more than 15,000 stories, told live and without notes, to standing-room-only crowds worldwide. The Moth podcast is downloaded over 27 million times a year.
Featuring true stories told live on stage without scripts, from the humorous to the heart-breaking.
The Moth Radio Hour is produced by Jay Allison and Atlantic Public Media in Woods Hole, Massachusetts and is distributed by the Public Radio Exchange.
SUN 11:50 Inheritance Tracks (b073gtrg)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:10 today]
SUN 12:00 Poetry Extra (m000rbj4)
The Echo Chamber - Contains Strong Language Festival
Daljit Nagra revisits the BBC's poetry archive and selects a programme featuring a nominee for this year's TS Eliot prize. This special edition of the Echo Chamber is presented by Paul Farley and was recorded at the BBC Contains Strong Language festival in Hull.
Jacob Polley, Caroline Bird, Wayne Holloway-Smith and Mary Jean Chan share poems about beginnings, arrivals and coming of age.
Presenter: Paul Farley
Producer: Mair Bosworth
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2018.
SUN 12:30 The Casebook of Max and Ivan (b099wv45)
Series 2
Case #139 - Help! The Aged!
Cack-handed private eyes Max and Ivan are in a state of penury, with mad landlord Malcolm going to extreme lengths to get his hands on their rent. Nonetheless, Max seems ready to jack in the business when he discovers that his Great Uncle Bernard (guest star Richard Wilson) might be in trouble.
But when he and Ivan investigate Bernard's retirement home and meet the terrifying Sister Geraldine, all might not be as it seems.
Written by Max Olesker and Ivan Gonzalez
Developed by John Stanley Productions
Produced by Ben Walker
A Retort production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2017.
SUN 13:00 F. Scott Fitzgerald: The Lost Stories (Omnibus) (b08swvx1)
A selection of stories taken from a collection of previously unpublished work by F Scott Fitzgerald, I'd Die For You: and Other Lost Stories.
The series opens with an extract from editor Anne Margaret Daniel's essay and the atmospheric vignette, 'Thank You For The Light'.
Read by Laurel Lefkow and Karen Bartke.
Romance, parties, cocktails and glamour - as a young writer in the 1920s F Scott Fitzgerald gave the magazines what they wanted. He had little choice; short stories were his bread and butter. But as the author matured he yearned to explore darker territory.
This desire wasn't cushioned by wealth; The Great Gatsby hadn't sold well and as the Depression crunched in the early 30s, Fitzgerald was hit by large medical bills for both himself and his wife Zelda. Despite the financial pressures he resisted the easy censorship requested by editors, who balked at Fitzgerald's portrayal of confusing generational freedoms, sex before marriage, divorce and working women.
Growing increasingly uncompromising about deletions and sanitisations, Fitzgerald preferred to let these stories lie in wait until their time came.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2017.
SUN 14:10 Inheritance Tracks (m000rbj6)
John Lanchester
The writer chooses Bach’s Partita no.1 in B flat major BWV 825 from Dinu Lipatti and Siouxsie and the Banshees’ Hong Kong Garden.
SUN 14:20 Clouds in Trousers by Katie Hims (Omnibus) (b079r9jc)
Katie Hims' drama, inspired by Alexandra Harris' book 'Weatherland', imagines Zoe as a woman growing up weathered - for whom every turn of her life is marked by the weather: rain, snow, a summer heatwave, a thunderstorm, the threat of a flood. All our lives are weather-bound but for Zoe the weather is more than just what goes on behind the scenes.
Young Zoe and Alice ...... Sydney Wade
Young Shaun ...... Rhys Gannon
Older Zoe ...... Patsy Ferran
Older Shaun ...... David Reed
Juliet ...... Laura Elphinstone
Jim ...... Sam Troughton
Zoe's mum ...... Katy Carmichael
Zoe's dad ...... Tristan Sturrock
Music by Jon Nicholls
Directed by Tim Dee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2016.
SUN 15:30 Bellydancing and the Blues (b01pg3qt)
Dancer and drummer Guy Schalom hunts out the spirit of the new Egypt in one of its biggest cultural exports. To our ears, Baladi is the music of the bellydancer - kitsch and mock-Arab. But in its true form it is the essence of Egypt, 'of the country', 'home' in the deepest sense.
Our journey begins in Berlin, as bejwelled dancers from across Europe gather on a theatre stage ready to do battle for the title 'Miss Bellydance 2012'. They might not all know it, but the music which accompanies their gyrations is a knot of contradictions: an essence of the east inspired by western musical traditions, the spirit of rural Egypt made urban.
But the deepest contradictions rest with the very people who perform Baladi. What seems to us a provocative, alluring, even licentious dance for women in fact has roots in a ceremonial dance for men. As we discover in Cairo, deep divisions remain between those who think it is a vital expression of the oriental spirit and those committed to regenerating sexual stereotypes. So what is the reality of bellydance and Baladi in the new Egypt? Can it find any place amongst the street rappers and pop artists or is this an artform about to be consigned to realms of the tourist-pleasing clubs and cafes? As with so much in this rapidly changing culture, answers prove difficult to find.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2012.
SUN 16:00 David Wade - Power of Attorney (b007w3c3)
Moral: If you have a rich aunt who is slightly dotty, think twice before attempting to defraud her of her money – as hard-up Geoffrey and Annabelle soon discover.
David Wade's comedy stars Geoffrey Palmer as Geoffrey Campion, Geraldine McEwan as Annabelle Campion, Joan Matheson as Aunt Beattie, Katherine Parr as Mrs Penny and John Moffatt as Corvo.
Producer: Glyn Dearman
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1990.
SUN 17:00 Poetry Extra (m000rbj4)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:00 today]
SUN 17:30 The Casebook of Max and Ivan (b099wv45)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:30 today]
SUN 18:00 A Sting in the Tale (b0076jsy)
4. Sally Go Round the Moon
Are the pressures of her job the reason Sally is hearing the voice of a child that no-one else can hear? Or is she being haunted?
A ghostly tale by Natalia Power.
CAST:
Sally …. Jaimi Barbakoff
Laura …. Rachel Atkins
Receptionist …. Frances Jeater
Stacey Wilson …. Ioan Meredith
Simon …. David Thorpe
Voice …. Jessica Crossley
Pianist and Musical Director: Clement Power
Director: Pauline Harris
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2003.
SUN 18:30 Ancient Sorceries by Algernon Blackwood (b007jvxy)
3. Ancient Forces
Vesin has been travelling in France when he finds himself stopping off for one night in a sleepy medieval town. There he meets Ilse the beautiful innkeeper's daughter and becomes bewitched by her.
Vesin starts wondering whether the people actually come alive at night and wonders if the town is in the hands of cats. Vesin begins to feel uneasy and that strange forces are tugging at his very being.
by Algernon Blackwood
An Unabridged Reading in 4 episodes for Radio 4 Extra's The 7th Dimension
Read by Philip Madoc
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2005.
SUN 19:00 The Moth Radio Hour (m0007013)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 today]
SUN 19:50 Inheritance Tracks (b073gtrg)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:10 today]
SUN 20:00 David Wade - Power of Attorney (b007w3c3)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:00 today]
SUN 21:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m000rbj2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 today]
SUN 21:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00m45d2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 today]
SUN 22:00 The Casebook of Max and Ivan (b099wv45)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:30 today]
SUN 22:30 I, Regress (b018xs90)
Series 1
Episode 1
A dark, David Lynch-ian comedy, ideally suited for an unsettling and surreal late night listen. 'I, Regress' sees Matt Berry (The IT Crowd, Garth Marenghi's Dark Place, Snuff Box) playing a corrupt and bizarre hypnotherapist taking unsuspecting clients on twisted, misleading journeys through their subconscious.
Each episode sees the doctor dealing with a different client who has come to him for a different problem (quitting smoking, fear of water, etc). As the patient is put under hypnosis, we 'enter' their mind, and all the various situations the hypnotherapist takes them through are played out for us to hear. The result is a dream- (or nightmare-) like trip through the patient's mind, as funny as it is disturbing.
Episode 1: Karen House-Water (Katherine Parkinson) visits Dr Berry to treat her fear of water, and finds that the cure can sometimes be worse than the disease - via mermaids, the titanic, and talking dolphins.
The cast across the series include Katherine Parkinson (IT Crowd), Morgana Robinson (The Morgana Show), Simon Greenall (I'm Alan Partridge), Jack Klaff (Star Wars, For Your Eyes Only), Tara Flynn (The Impressions Show, Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle), Alex Lowe (Barry From Watford, The Peter Serafinowicz Show), and Derek Griffiths (Playschool, Bod, and The Royal Exchange).
A compelling late night listen: tune in and occupy someone else's head!
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2012.
SUN 22:45 The Shuttleworths (b007jtnf)
Series 3
Chic Ken
Sheffield singer John Shuttleworth starts envying his agent Ken's bachelor lifestyle. Stars Graham Fellows. From October 1997.
SUN 23:00 The Penny Dreadfuls (b00gpbcs)
More Brothers Faversham
Titus Faversham
The story of Victorian Britain's greatest sporting hero.
The comedy trio's swashbuckling family romp.
Written by and starring Humphrey Ker, David Reed and Thom Tuck.
With Miles Jupp and Ingrid Oliver.
Script edited by Richard Turner.
Producer: Julia McKenzie
Made for BBC Radio 7 and first broadcast in 2008.
SUN 23:30 Lionel Nimrod's Inexplicable World (b007qx6z)
Series 1
The Universe
The spoof TV sci-fi star explains life's big mysteries. Stars Richard Herring, Stewart Lee and Tom Baker. From October 1992.
MONDAY 18 JANUARY 2021
MON 00:00 A Sting in the Tale (b0076jsy)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:00 on Sunday]
MON 00:30 Ancient Sorceries by Algernon Blackwood (b007jvxy)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:30 on Sunday]
MON 01:00 F. Scott Fitzgerald: The Lost Stories (Omnibus) (b08swvx1)
[Repeat of broadcast at
13:00 on Sunday]
MON 02:10 Inheritance Tracks (m000rbj6)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:10 on Sunday]
MON 02:20 Clouds in Trousers by Katie Hims (Omnibus) (b079r9jc)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:20 on Sunday]
MON 03:30 Bellydancing and the Blues (b01pg3qt)
[Repeat of broadcast at
15:30 on Sunday]
MON 04:00 David Wade - Power of Attorney (b007w3c3)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:00 on Sunday]
MON 05:00 Poetry Extra (m000rbj4)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:00 on Sunday]
MON 05:30 The Casebook of Max and Ivan (b099wv45)
[Repeat of broadcast at
12:30 on Sunday]
MON 06:00 Bulldog Drummond by Sapper (b00nskjl)
6. Foiling
Can our hero foil evil Peterson's plan to overthrow the government? Sapper's yarn is concluded by Julian Rhind-Tutt.
MON 06:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tk5)
The Mysterious Affair at Styles
Episode 1
It's 1916 and in a quiet English village, Belgian sleuth, Hercule Poirot and Captain Hastings become joyously re-acquainted. But beneath the seeming tranquillity, murder is brewing.
Agatha Christie’s 1920 crime thriller.
CAST:
Hercule Poirot …. John Moffatt
Hastings …. Simon Williams
Evie …. Nichola McAuliffe
Emily …. Jill Balcon
Alfred …. Hugh Dickson
John …. Sean Arnold
Mary …. Susan Jameson
Lawrence …. Nicholas Boulton
Cynthia …. Annabelle Dowler
Dorcas …. Hilda Schroder
Original music composed by Tom Smail.
Dramatist: Michael Bakewell
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2005.
MON 07:00 Turf Wars (b00zf33t)
An Incident at the Border
Nigel Planer stars as a border-guard in Kieran Lynn's comedy about boundaries that are both territorial and personal.
Arthur and Olivia take the sun in their local park on a beautiful summer's day. Olivia is reading a newspaper article on their country's new-found independence. It seems that no-one knows quite what the terms are for the secession. Arthur couldn't care less. He's apolitical and just enjoying watching the ducks.
Suddenly a soldier arrives, dragging a tape across the ground, marking out the new border. He barges between the two young lovers. Now one is on one side of the new border, and one on the other!
Arthur's attempt to cross is met with a stun-gun jolt from the guard, who has as little understanding of the new rules as the couple. He just knows he has been trained to be suspicious of everyone who isn't from 'this country' which now includes Arthur!
How can our lovers be reunited?
Reiver ..... Nigel Planer
Olivia ..... Leah Brotherhead
Arthur ..... Joseph Kloska
Directed by Peter Kavanagh.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2011.
MON 07:30 The Unbelievable Truth (m000r36s)
Series 25
Episode 1
David Mitchell hosts the panel game in which four comedians are encouraged to tell lies and compete against one another to see how many items of truth they're able to smuggle past their opponents.
Frankie Boyle, Sara Pascoe, Miles Jupp, and Holly Walsh are the panellists obliged to talk with deliberate inaccuracy on subjects as varied as London, divorce, names and bats.
Produced by Jon Naismith
A Random Entertainment production for BBC Radio 4
MON 08:00 Steptoe and Son (b00sbh9h)
Series 1
The Bath
Harold's plan for a proper bathroom upset his father Albert.
Starring Wilfrid Brambell as Albert and Harry H Corbett as Harold.
Following the conclusion of their hugely successful association with Tony Hancock, writers Ray Galton and Alan Simpson wrote 10 pilots for the BBC TV's Comedy Playhouse in 1962. The Offer was set in a house with a yard full of junk, featuring the lives of rag and bone men Albert Steptoe and his son Harold and it was the spark for a run of 8 series for TV.
Adapted for radio from Galton and Simpson's TV script by Gale Pedrick.
Produced by Bobby Jaye
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in September 1966.
MON 08:30 Mr Finchley Takes the Road (b007k0zf)
Episode 2
Mr Finchley runs into an ancient mariner who has many tales to tell of his life at sea, each one taller than the last. Meanwhile, following hot on his tail is Oliver Watt-Anselm, the worst private eye in the world...
Victor Canning's novel about the adventures of a man and his horse-drawn caravan touring the 1930s countryside of Kent.
CAST:
Mr Finchley .... Richard Griffiths
Horace Blane …. John Bird
Bob Trilby …. Chris Emmett
Oliver Watt-Anselm …. Jon Glover
Narrated by James Villiers.
Adapted in six parts by Andy and Eric Merriman.
Producer: Gareth Edwards
First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in April 1993.
MON 09:00 Hidden Treasures (b05p6jmr)
Syon House
From dining habits to the wonders of metamorphic furniture
Lars Tharp chairs the light-hearted Antiques Quiz from the London home of the Duke of Northumberland, Syon House.
With John Bly, Christine Lalumia, Clive Stewart-Lockhart and Max Rutherston.
Producers: Elizabeth Abrahams and Annie Bristow.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1998.
MON 09:30 Babblewick Hall (b04p56x5)
Series 2
Episode 4
Debts are mounting and the squire has an ulterior motive when he visits Lady Keene. With Sophie Thompson. From September 1998.
MON 10:00 Drama (b08wmwyy)
John le Carré - A Perfect Spy
1. Disappearance
'Love is whatever you can still betray. Betrayal can only happen if you love.'
So says Magnus Pym, the spy of the title; and he has betrayed a lot in his life - countries, friends and lovers.
When Magnus disappears after his father's funeral MI6 launches an urgent manhunt to prevent his defection.
John le Carré's spy novel dramatised in three parts by Robert Forrest.
Magnus Pym .... Julian Rhind-Tutt
Jack Brotherhood .... Bill Paterson
Rick Pym .... Michael Maloney
Mary .... Ruth Gemmell
Lippsie .... Melody Grove
Syd Lemon .... Ewan Bailey
Sefton Boyd .... Tom Forrister
Nigel .... Gerard McDermott
Georgie .... Samara MacLaren
Fergus .... Tom Stuart
Peggy Wentworth .... Aoife McMahon
Other parts are played by the cast.
Director: Bruce Young
Made by BBC Scotland for BBC Radio 4 and first broadcast in July 2017.
MON 11:00 TED Radio Hour (m000rcz3)
Series 7
Jumpstarting Creativity
A journey through fascinating ideas based on talks by riveting speakers on the TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) stage.
Guy Raz explores how creativity is linked to our greatest breakthroughs and triumphs. How can we rekindle it?
First broadcast in the USA on National Public Radio in 2019.
MON 11:50 Inheritance Tracks (b05xxf96)
Suzanne Vega
The singer Suzanne Vega inherits 'Where Have All the Flowers Gone?' by Pete Seeger, and passes on 'Masters of War' by Bob Dylan.
MON 12:00 Steptoe and Son (b00sbh9h)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
MON 12:30 Mr Finchley Takes the Road (b007k0zf)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
MON 13:00 Bulldog Drummond by Sapper (b00nskjl)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
MON 13:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tk5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
MON 14:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b084x0n8)
The Sisters' Lovers
Two Puritan spinsters have harboured their maid Babette since she fled revolutionary Paris 12 years ago. While the Frenchwoman cuts a mysterious figure in their small Norwegian village and her employers have secrets of their own, together they have created a haven for each other and the needy of the parish. When Babette unexpectedly comes into money, her only wish is to create a special meal in gratitude.
Sylvestra Le Touzel reads Karen Blixen’s classic story.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2016.
MON 14:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b082x79m)
Davina's Episode
The transformative Brighton Ladies Sea Swimming Club alters lives. Five very different women's paths cross at this tough wild swimming club.
Why does 70 year old Davina force herself to swim in the freezing sea, despite her rheumatoid arthritis, and will she be able to keep the stagnating club that she founded afloat.
By Charlotte Jones
Davina ..... Sheila Reid
Angie ..... Josie Lawrence
Jane ..... Karen Bartke
Cassie ..... Keziah Joseph
Directed by Liz Webb
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016.
MON 14:30 My Family’s Fight For Civil Rights (b047zlc5)
Baroness Oona King, the former British Labour MP, has an American side to her family that played a variety of key roles in the Civil Rights Movement. Her grandfather and uncles worked with Martin Luther King in The Albany Movement, a campaign of mass protests that tried to desegregate their home town in Georgia.
Oona travelled to Albany to speak to members of the movement on the 50th anniversary of the passing of The Civil Rights Act, the legislation which forced the Southern States to give African Americans the equality which was their right under the Constitution.
Oona discovers that the violence meted out to black protesters by the authorities affected her family directly. Her uncle CB King, the first black lawyer in the town, was beaten up by a local Sherriff for asking to see his client in the cells. And her Aunt Marion lost her baby after she was beaten up by the police.
Interviewees include Pastor Boyd of the Shiloh Baptist Church, who is now in his mid 80s and bravely allowed protesters to meet at his church; Charles Sherrod of the Student Non-Violent Co-ordinating Committee, who brought the campaign for voting rights and desegregation to Albany; John Perdew, who came from Harvard to help the fight and faced the death sentence on false charges; Chief Judge Herbert Phipps of the Atlanta Court of Appeals; and Chevene King, the lawyer son of CB King, who is now fighting racial injustice in Georgia.
Producer: David Morley
A Bite Media production
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2014.
MON 15:00 Drama (b08wmwyy)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 today]
MON 16:00 Hidden Treasures (b05p6jmr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
MON 16:30 Babblewick Hall (b04p56x5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 today]
MON 17:00 Turf Wars (b00zf33t)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 today]
MON 17:30 The Unbelievable Truth (m000r36s)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
MON 18:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jx5r)
The Red Planet
1. Mayhem on the Moon
Captain Jet Morgan and his crew aboard Discovery blast off for their epic mission to Mars - but there's a problem...
Charles Chilton’s 1954 classic set in 1971.
Jet Morgan …. Andrew Faulds
Lemmy …. David Kossoff
Doc …. Guy Kingsley Poynter
Mitch …. Bruce Beeby
Announcer/Various …. David Jacobs
Various …. Anthony Marriott
Music composed and conducted by Van Phillips.
Producer: Charles Chilton
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in September 1954.
MON 18:30 A Good Read (b012fcyr)
Juliet Barker and John O'Farrell
Satirical writer John O'Farrell and historian Juliet Barker talk to Harriett Gilbert about their favourite books - all of which use an unusual blend of fact and fiction.
They evoke the lives of the Brontes, the worst civilian disaster of World War II and the British mandate in Palestine.
The Taste of Sorrow by Jude Morgan
Publisher: Headline Review
The Report by Jessica Francis Kane
Publihser: Portobello Books
Panther in the Basement by Amos Oz
Publisher: Vintage
Producer Beth O'Dea
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2011.
MON 19:00 Steptoe and Son (b00sbh9h)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
MON 19:30 Mr Finchley Takes the Road (b007k0zf)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
MON 20:00 Bulldog Drummond by Sapper (b00nskjl)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
MON 20:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tk5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
MON 21:00 TED Radio Hour (m000rcz3)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 today]
MON 21:50 Inheritance Tracks (b05xxf96)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:50 today]
MON 22:00 The Unbelievable Truth (m000r36s)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
MON 22:30 The Celebrity Voicemail Show (b08dnws2)
Series 2
Nigel Farage
The Celebrity Voicemail Show is an entirely fictitious comedy show written, improvised and starring only Kayvan Novak in which he imagines what it might be like to hear the answerphone messages of the rich and famous.
This week we listened to Nigel Farage's voicemail as he flies off to America.
The producer was Matt Stronge.
A BBC Studios production.
MON 22:45 Hamish and Dougal: You'll Have Had Your Tea (b007k1wk)
Series 2
The Monster in the Loch
The elderly Scotsmen have a monstrous encounter in the great outdoors. Stars Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden and Alison Steadman. From March 2004.
MON 23:00 The News Quiz (m000r5pf)
Series 104
Episode 3
This week Andy's guests are Nish Kumar, Felicity Ward, Lucy Porter and Gavin Webster.
A titanic clash between Team Lock em Up and Team Lock em Down. In an attempt to distract from the globe's currently lower than average performance, this week's programme features some "future news".
Written by Andy Zaltzman with additional material from Max Davis, Alice Fraser, Simon Alcock and Celya AB.
Producer: Richard Morris
A BBC Studios Production
MON 23:30 At Home With The Snails (b00c8rbm)
Series 2
Episode 3
Snail obsessed Alex’s plan to rescue snails by bringing them home hits a snag..,
George and Beverly continue faking their deaths in order to bring their family closer.
Second series of Gerard Foster's comedy drama
George ..... Geoffrey Palmer
Beverley ..... Angela Thorne
Alex ..... Gerard Foster
Rose ..... Miranda Hart
Hosana ..... Debra Stephenson
Roger ..... Richie Webb
Producer: Jane Berthoud
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2002.
TUESDAY 19 JANUARY 2021
TUE 00:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jx5r)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:00 on Monday]
TUE 00:30 A Good Read (b012fcyr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:30 on Monday]
TUE 01:00 Bulldog Drummond by Sapper (b00nskjl)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 on Monday]
TUE 01:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tk5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 on Monday]
TUE 02:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b084x0n8)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:00 on Monday]
TUE 02:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b082x79m)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:15 on Monday]
TUE 02:30 My Family’s Fight For Civil Rights (b047zlc5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:30 on Monday]
TUE 03:00 Drama (b08wmwyy)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 on Monday]
TUE 04:00 Hidden Treasures (b05p6jmr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 on Monday]
TUE 04:30 Babblewick Hall (b04p56x5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 on Monday]
TUE 05:00 Turf Wars (b00zf33t)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 on Monday]
TUE 05:30 The Unbelievable Truth (m000r36s)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 on Monday]
TUE 06:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b012qqvq)
Episode 1
Robert Forester is now living in Langley, Pennsylvania, after a messy divorce.
He's escaped his oppressive wife and has no need to see a psychiatrist again.So why is he outside Jenny Theirolf's house, watching her every move?
Patricia Highsmith's intriguing tale of obsession stars John Sharian as Robert Forester, Adrian Lester as Greg Wyncoop, Joanne McQuinn as Jenny Theirolf and Matt Rippy as Jack Neilsen.
Adapted by Shaun McKenna.
Music composed and performed by David Chilton
Director: Marion Nancarrow
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2002.
TUE 06:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tng)
The Mysterious Affair at Styles
Episode 2
In the blistering summer heat, tensions are mounting at Styles Court. It will not be long before Captain Hastings has to call upon the services of Hercule Poirot.
Agatha Christie’s 1920 crime thriller.
CAST:
Hercule Poirot …. John Moffatt
Hastings …. Simon Williams
Emily …. Jill Balcon
Alfred …. Hugh Dickson
John …. Sean Arnold
Mary …. Susan Jameson
Lawrence …. Nicholas Boulton
Cynthia/Annie …. Annabelle Dowler
Dorcas …. Hilda Schroder
Evie …. Nichola McAuliffe
Dr Bauerstein …. Robert Portal
Mr Wells …. Richard Syms
Original music composed by Tom Smail.
Dramatist: Michael Bakewell
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2005.
TUE 07:00 Showstopper (b00yqvk0)
6. Bedlam
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical is a brand new comedy in which the Showstopper team create a hilarious improvised musical on the spot - with the songs, plot and characters based entirely on suggestions from the live studio audience.
The cast includes Pippa Evans, Ruth Bratt, Dylan Emery, Lucy Trodd, Sean McCann and Oliver Senton.
Produced by Sam Bryant.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2011.
TUE 07:30 Beta Female (m000r3p7)
Series 1
Episode 1
Beta Female is a semi-autobiographical sitcom by Amna Saleem, starring Kiran Sonia Sawar (Black Mirror, Pure) as Amna, a young woman trying to find her place in the world - in her work, in her relationships, and in her family.
The Accent: When a colleague misidentifies Amna's accent, she takes the opportunity for a change of identity.
Amna ... Kiran Sonia Sawar
Sunnha ... Hiftu Quasem
Issa ... Atta Yaqub
Nora ... Evelyn Lockley
Sam ... Darren Kuppan
Theo ... Tom Stourton
Written by Amna Saleem
Produced & directed by Ed Morrish
A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4
TUE 08:00 The Goon Show (b007jpcq)
Series 8
The Space Age
Neddy and Crun attempt to launch Min into space, but she gets stuck up the chimney. Stars Spike Milligan. From November 1957.
TUE 08:30 Winston (b007k4b8)
Series 1
A Happy Family
Nancy has recently moved to the village with sister Rosie, brother William and her Father.
When Winston, the local poacher and handyman, is thrown out by his wife because of his infidelities, he invites himself to stay with them and starts to spoil the family by acquiring a brand new freezer for them, by doing all the washing and ironing and by cooking them superb meals.
But they are deeply suspicious. What could be Winston's motives?
Peter Tinniswood's bawdy comedy serial stars Bill Wallis as Winston, Maurice Denham as Father, Shirley Dixon as Nancy, Liz Goulding as Rosie and Christian Rodska as William.
Directed at BBC Bristol by Shaun MacLoughlin.
First broadcast on BBC Radio in April 1989.
TUE 09:00 The News Quiz (m000r5pf)
[Repeat of broadcast at
23:00 on Monday]
TUE 09:30 Like They've Never Been Gone (b00c6vrj)
Series 3
Episode 2
Sheila raises Tommy's suspicions and blood pressure, but there's method in her madness.
Ageing showbiz couple Tommy Franklin and Sheila Parr continue their second stab at fame.
Series 3 of Mike Coleman’s six-part sitcom,
CAST:
Tommy Franklin …. Roy Hudd
Sheila Parr …. June Whitfield
Hetty Stark …. Pat Coombes
Murray Franklin …. Julian Eardley
Louis Elstein …. Edward Halsted
Jack Dunne …. William Franklyn
Music by Frido Ruth.
Producer: Steve Doherty
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2001.
TUE 10:00 Drama (b08x4s6f)
John le Carré - A Perfect Spy
2. A Perfect Mystery
When Magnus Pym disappears after his father's funeral MI6 launches an urgent manhunt to prevent his defection.
But Pym is on a search of his own to solve the central mystery of his life - what made him the perfect spy.
John le Carré's spy novel dramatised by Robert Forrest.
Magnus Pym .... Julian Rhind-Tutt
Jack Brotherhood .... Bill Paterson
Axel .... Anton Lesser
Peggy Wentworth .... Aoife McMahon
Syd Lemon .... Ewan Bailey
Clerk .... Ewan Bailey
Kate .... Tracy Wiles
Tom .... Adam Thomas Wright
Sabina .... Sanchia McCormack
Nigel .... Gerard McDermott
Other parts are played by the cast.
Director: Bruce Young
Made by BBC Scotland for BBC Radio 4 and first broadcast in July 2017.
TUE 11:00 Archive on 4 (b08n1hnh)
The 90s: A Holiday from History
Jonathan Freedland re-examines the 1990s from a new angle - recalling it as a rare period of peace and prosperity. But could it also be the decade which ultimately led to Trump and Brexit?
Sandwiched between the end of the Cold War and the war on terror, the 1990s now look like an oasis of calm. The decade witnessed the end of apartheid in South Africa, the fall of the Soviet Union and peace in Northern Ireland. As a result, people became preoccupied by more domestic dramas. Just as the UK was gripped by the saga of Charles and Diana's marriage, the Americans were hooked on the OJ Simpson trial.
Jonathan unearths a rich selection of archive and hears from MPs John Redwood and Harriet Harman about their perspectives on this most unusual decade. But he also argues that some of the forces unleashed in that decade would only start to manifest themselves in the middle of the 2010s - with the rise of Donald Trump and the UK's decision to leave the EU.
Producer: Laurence Grissell.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2017.
TUE 12:00 The Goon Show (b007jpcq)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
TUE 12:30 Winston (b007k4b8)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
TUE 13:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b012qqvq)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
TUE 13:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tng)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
TUE 14:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b084x8x8)
A Letter from Paris
Martine and Phillipa are astonished when a woman arrives on their doorstep carrying a letter of introduction from an old friend. Before long the new arrival has quietly transformed their lives.
Sylvestra Le Touzel reads Karen Blixen’s classic story.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2016.
TUE 14:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b082ymp3)
Jane's Episode
The transformative Brighton Ladies Sea Swimming Club alters lives. Five very different women's paths cross at this tough wild swimming club.
Why has Jane left friends and family in Australia and exchanged the warm Australian waters for the freezing rough sea round Brighton pier.
By Charlotte Jones
Jane ..... Karen Bartke
Davina ..... Sheila Reid
Angie ..... Josie Lawrence
Shelley ..... Michele Austin
Cassie ..... Keziah Joseph
Jet Ski Man ..... John Bowler
Directed by Liz Webb
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016.
TUE 14:30 Miniature Mountains (b0076f9s)
From "currant buns" to models of the Matterhorn?
Gardening writer Stephen Anderton explores the changing fashions in rock gardening - looking at the influence of the Northamptonshire landowner who wanted a landscape for his gnomes and the diminutive Yorkshireman who described his alpines as "sulky" but who changed our view of the rockery.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2004.
TUE 15:00 Drama (b08x4s6f)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 today]
TUE 16:00 Who Goes There? (b0075z3c)
Series 4
Episode 4
Martin Young chairs the quiz which looks at the noteworthy and the notorious from history.
Tackling the biographical teasers are team captains Francis Wheen and Fred Housego with guests Claire Rayner and David Aaronovitch.
Producer: Liz Anstee
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2000.
TUE 16:30 Like They've Never Been Gone (b00c6vrj)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 today]
TUE 17:00 Showstopper (b00yqvk0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 today]
TUE 17:30 Beta Female (m000r3p7)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
TUE 18:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jpkd)
The Red Planet
2. What's Wrong with Whittaker?
Freighter No 2 of Captain Jet Morgan's Mars space fleet is in trouble.
But when radio mechanic Lemmy and motor engineer Steve tried to cross over from the flagship, Discovery, to put the trouble right, Steve became unhitched from his safety line and is now drifting in the void...
Charles Chilton’s 1954 classic set in 1971.
Jet Morgan …. Andrew Faulds
Lemmy …. David Kossoff
Doc …. Guy Kingsley Poynter
Mitch …. Bruce Beeby
Announcer/Various …. David Jacobs
Various …. Anthony Marriott
Music composed and conducted by Van Phillips.
Producer: Charles Chilton
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in September 1954.
TUE 18:30 Soul Music (b00mr2wr)
Series 8
You've Got a Friend
Series exploring famous pieces of music and their emotional appeal.
Written by Carole King and made famous by James Taylor, You've Got a Friend won a Grammy Award in 1971. In this programme people tell how this song has affected their life.
Contributors
Carole King
Nick Barraclough
Marcella Erskine
Estelle Williams
Karen Garner
James Taylor
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2009.
TUE 19:00 The Goon Show (b007jpcq)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
TUE 19:30 Winston (b007k4b8)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
TUE 20:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b012qqvq)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
TUE 20:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tng)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
TUE 21:00 Archive on 4 (b08n1hnh)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 today]
TUE 22:00 Beta Female (m000r3p7)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
TUE 22:30 The Big Booth (b007k32y)
Series 2: The Big Booth Too
Episode 2
Boothby stays the night in a haunted Scottish castle.
More guitar-flavoured songs and surreal laughs from Boothby Graffoe.
With Stephen Frost, Vivienne Soan, Big Al and Kevin Eldon.
Special guest: singer-songwriter Robyn Hitchcock.
Written by Boothby Graffoe and Dave Thompson.
Producer: Julia McKenzie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2001.
TUE 23:00 James Acaster's Findings (b04pv6kv)
Series 1
4. Paint
Triple Foster's nominated comedian James Acaster presents the results of his research. This week, he's been investigating 'Paint'. With Nathaniel Metcalfe ('Fresh from the Fringe') and Bryony Hannah ('Call the Midwife').
Produced by Lyndsay Fenner.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2014.
TUE 23:15 Expenses Only (b07m7lmp)
4. Journalism
Put away your P45, you're not going to need it – it's Expenses Only. Our two young interns Tim and Miranda face the responsibility of interning interns, the incredulity of old rivals and the banality of local Amateur Dramatics, as they long to progress from their internship in the tough world of Journalism.
Expenses Only is a narrative sketch show by writer Alex Lynch, centred around internships and the world of work experience.
In each episode, the show's two leading twenty-something protagonists, Tim (enthusiastic worker) and Miranda (jaded graduate), attempt to break into a different industry through a series of increasingly challenging placements.
The series is made up of an ensemble cast and is also tied together using linking sketches, signature ad-breaks and the Narrator who, with his deadpan delivery and wry commentary, guides us through the schadenfreude and chaos that unravels across an episode.
Cast:
Tim... Rasmus Hardiker
Miranda... Lucy Beaumont
Narrator... Robert Glenister
Player... Kathryn Bond
Player... Simon Bubb
Player... Beth Goddard
Player... Matt Green
Player... Simon Greenall
Player... Christine Kavanagh
Player... Paul G Raymond
Player... Lorna Shaw
Player... Kellie Shirley
Player... Tom Glenister
Recorded live at Bush Hall, London.
Creator / Writer: Alex Lynch
Additional material by Charlotte Michael
Director: Celia De Wolff
Executive Producer: Peter Hoare
A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2016.
TUE 23:30 Mark Tavener - Absolute Power (b007v1pd)
Series 2
Episode 3
Can spin kings Prentiss McCabe turn a failed novelist into a best seller? Stars Stephen Fry and John Bird. From February 2001.
WEDNESDAY 20 JANUARY 2021
WED 00:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jpkd)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:00 on Tuesday]
WED 00:30 Soul Music (b00mr2wr)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:30 on Tuesday]
WED 01:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b012qqvq)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 on Tuesday]
WED 01:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tng)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 on Tuesday]
WED 02:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b084x8x8)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:00 on Tuesday]
WED 02:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b082ymp3)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:15 on Tuesday]
WED 02:30 Miniature Mountains (b0076f9s)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:30 on Tuesday]
WED 03:00 Drama (b08x4s6f)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 on Tuesday]
WED 04:00 Who Goes There? (b0075z3c)
[Repeat of broadcast at
16:00 on Tuesday]
WED 04:30 Like They've Never Been Gone (b00c6vrj)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 on Tuesday]
WED 05:00 Showstopper (b00yqvk0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 on Tuesday]
WED 05:30 Beta Female (m000r3p7)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 on Tuesday]
WED 06:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b012wzzj)
Episode 2
Jenny has fallen for Robert Forester, though he's not certain of his feelings for her.
Meanwhile, her ex-fiance, Greg, is very certain. He wants Jenny back - and Robert is in the way.
Patricia Highsmith's intriguing tale of obsession stars John Sharian as Robert Forester, Adrian Lester as Greg Wyncoop, Joanne McQuinn as Jenny Theirolf and Matt Rippy as Jack Neilsen.
Adapted by Shaun McKenna.
Music composed and performed by David Chilton
Director: Marion Nancarrow
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2002.
WED 06:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076trz)
The Mysterious Affair at Styles
Episode 3
Emily Inglethorp has suddenly died - apparently of strychnine poisoning. Captain Hastings has asked Hercule Poirot to investigate and there's a visit from Detective Inspector Japp of Scotland Yard.
Agatha Christie’s 1920 crime thriller.
CAST:
Hercule Poirot …. John Moffatt
Hastings …. Simon Williams
Japp …. Philip Jackson
Alfred …. Hugh Dickson
Evie …. Nichola McAuliffe
John …. Sean Arnold
Mary …. Susan Jameson
Lawrence …. Nicholas Boulton
Cynthia …. Annabelle Dowler
Dorcas …. Hilda Schroder
The Coroner …. Peter Howell
Dr Bauerstein …. Robert Portal
Mr Mace …. Harry Myers
Summerhayes/Rustic …. Don McCorkindale
Original music composed by Tom Smail.
Dramatist: Michael Bakewell
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2005.
WED 07:00 Deborah Frances-White Rolls the Dice (b07wtkg1)
Series 2
Papa Was a Rolling Stone
Award-winning writer and comedian Deborah Frances-White searches for her birth father. Following her highly successful first series, Deborah continues her international adventures. Her unique style mixes reality and comedy as she retells her true-life story.
In the company of a distinguished cast of comedy actors - Alex Lowe (Barry from Watford), Margaret Cabourn-Smith (John Finnemore's Sketchbook) and Laurence Dobiesz (What The Papers Say) - Deborah's quest spans the globe revealing a cast of eccentric characters from the Trenchcoat Detective Agency to the Australian Salvation Army, locally known as the Salvos.
An invited audience enjoys the breadth and depth of her writing which the Guardian called "gripping and compelling' and which won Deborah Frances-White the 2016 Writers Guild Award for Best Scripted Comedy for Half a Can of Worms - the first show in last-year's Radio 4 series.
A So Radio production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2016.
WED 07:30 Conversations from a Long Marriage (m000r4w0)
Series 2
Heartbreak Hotel
Conversations from a Long Marriage is a two-hander, starring Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam, as a long-married couple who met in the Summer of Love and are still passionate about life, music and each other. We listen to – and empathise with - their dangling ‘conversations’ covering everything from health scares, jealousy and confessions, to TV incompatibility and sourdough bread.
In Episode three, Roger is best man at their friend’s second marriage, in a country hotel, and Joanna makes excessive demands of room service.
Written by Jan Etherington. Produced and directed by Claire Jones. Production co-ordinator Beverly Tagg. A BBC Studios Production.
WED 08:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jpvv)
Series 6
Hancock in Hospital
Laid up with a broken leg, the lad soon regrets a visit from Sid and Bill.
Starring Tony Hancock. With Sidney James, Bill Kerr, Joan Frank and Patricia Hayes.
Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.
Theme and incidental music written by Wally Stott.
Producer: Tom Ronald
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in December 1959.
WED 08:30 Up the Garden Path (b008hq47)
Series 3
Taking It on the Chin
As Izzy's love-life grows ever more complicated - she's in for a big surprise.
Imelda Staunton stars as Isabelle 'Izzy' Comyn.
With Mike Grady as Dick, Marty Cruickshank as Maria, Nicholas Le Prevost as Michael, Rene Zagger as Razors, Neil McCaul as Bill and Phyllida Nash as Louise.
Tumbling from one love entanglement to another, 30-something teacher Izzy has a predilection for inappropriate men.
A six-part radio sequel first adapted from Sue Limb’s 1984 novel. The last of three series which ran from 1987 to 1993. Granada also adapted the series for ITV.
Producer: Jonathan James-Moore
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1993.
WED 09:00 The Motion Show (b0075wj0)
Series 2
Episode 1
Dr Phil Hammond chairs the debating game with Gyles Brandreth, Tony Hawks, Jo Caulfield and Arthur Smith. From January 2000.
WED 09:30 Rent (b00752lq)
Series 3
Episode 4
Maria turns agony aunt, but is Paul finally turning all grown-up and responsible?
Series 3 of Lucy Flannery's award-winning sitcom about Maria and Richard Reynolds and their lodgers.
CAST:
Maria …. Barbara Flynn
Richard …. Patrick Barlow
Amy …. Linda Polan
Ruby …. Vivienne Rochester
Paul …. Dave Lamb
The Mother …. Sally Grace
The Checkout Girl …. Sarah Parkinson
Producer: Liz Anstee.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 1997.
WED 10:00 Drama (b08xxgld)
John le Carré - A Perfect Spy
3. Deception
As the MI6 manhunt closes in on Magnus Pym he attempts to solve the mystery of what - or who - created his talent for deception.
Was it the betrayal and lies of his con man father, Rick? Or the man who recruited him to MI6 - Jack Brotherhood?
Or was it Axel, the Czech agent he has known since his teens? All of them have marked his life in some way. .
Conclusion of John le Carré's spy novel starring Julian Rhind-Tutt.
Dramatised by Robert Forrest.
Magnus Pym .... Julian Rhind-Tutt
Axel .... Anton Lesser
Jack Brotherhood .... Bill Paterson
Mary .... Ruth Gemmell
Rick Pym .... Michael Maloney
Kate/Marjory/Waitress .... Tracy Wiles
Georgie .... Samara MacLaren
Fergus .... Tom Stuart
Nigel .... Gerard McDermott
Caroline .... Aoife McMahon
Syd Lemon/Police Super .... Ewan Bailey
Tom Adam .... Thomas Wright
Other parts are played by the cast.
Director: Bruce Young
Made by BBC Scotland for BBC Radio 4 and first broadcast in July 2017.
WED 11:00 Michael Palin's Radio Adventures (m000rdkd)
3. Ripping Yarns
In a completely different broadcast from London’s BBC Radio Theatre John McCarthy meets with Michael Palin to celebrate the actor-adventurer’s remarkable life and career as heard on BBC radio.
Michael Palin has been a Python, a world traveller, author, actor and screenwriter, and often described as “Britain’s Nicest Man”. However one area which is often overlooked from his long and impressive career are his fascinating radio contributions.
Featuring extracts from his mighty canon of work including his famous diaries, interviews about his comedy and travel work, documentaries and dramas.
Recorded in front an enthusiastic audience, we discover Palin’s love for radio as we hear a treasure trove of archives on an eclectic mix of subjects and plenty memories of Monty Python.
Producer: Stephen Garner
Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in December 2017.
WED 12:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jpvv)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
WED 12:30 Up the Garden Path (b008hq47)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
WED 13:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b012wzzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
WED 13:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076trz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
WED 14:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b084xrdb)
The Turtle
Babette’s excitement grows as she makes detailed preparations for her special meal. Meanwhile Martine and Phillipa grow heavy hearted at the thought of Babette’s inevitable return to France with her lottery windfall.
Sylvestra Le Touzel reads Karen Blixen’s classic story.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2016.
WED 14:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b0832rj6)
Angie's Episode
The transformative Brighton Ladies Sea Swimming Club alters lives. Five very different women's paths cross at this tough wild swimming club.
What difficult secret is Angie refusing to share with the group?
By Charlotte Jones
Angie ..... Josie Lawrence
Davina ..... Sheila Reid
Jane ..... Karen Bartke
Cassie ..... Keziah Joseph
Directed by Liz Webb
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016.
WED 14:30 Who Wears The Trousers? - George Burns and Gracie Allen (m000rdkg)
4 Extra Debut. How Gracie Allen went from being comedic foil to her husband George Burns to a popular laughter-making star. From 2003.
WED 15:00 Drama (b08xxgld)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 today]
WED 16:00 The Motion Show (b0075wj0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
WED 16:30 Rent (b00752lq)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 today]
WED 17:00 Deborah Frances-White Rolls the Dice (b07wtkg1)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 today]
WED 17:30 Conversations from a Long Marriage (m000r4w0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
WED 18:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jpnn)
The Red Planet
3. Extreme Dreams
James Whitaker’s curious behaviour causes concern for Captain Jet Morgan, as bad dreams plague the rest of his crew bound for Mars...
Charles Chilton’s 1954 classic set in 1971.
Jet Morgan …. Andrew Faulds
Lemmy …. David Kossoff
Doc …. Guy Kingsley Poynter
Mitch …. Bruce Beeby
Announcer/Various …. David Jacobs
Various …. Anthony Marriott
Music composed and conducted by Van Phillips.
Producer: Charles Chilton
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in September 1954.
WED 18:30 Short Cuts (b0b42z8t)
Series 16
Beginnings
Josie Long presents short documentaries about creating something out of nothing, fresh starts and the beginning of the end.
From a band that existed before they'd ever met each other to the new beginnings which bring sweet, if painful, endings in a relationship between a mother and daughter.
The Dandelion Adventure
Produced by Geoff Bird
Good Year for the Roses
Produced by Sophie Townsend
Meteor Shower
Produced by Nanna Hauge Kristensen
Series Producer: Eleanor McDowall
A Falling Tree production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast on May 2018.
WED 19:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jpvv)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
WED 19:30 Up the Garden Path (b008hq47)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
WED 20:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b012wzzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
WED 20:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076trz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
WED 21:00 Michael Palin's Radio Adventures (m000rdkd)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 today]
WED 22:00 Conversations from a Long Marriage (m000r4w0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
WED 22:30 The Croft & Pearce Show (b0738kr6)
Episode 2
A sketch show from award-winning duo Croft and Pearce, rising stars of the UK comedy scene.
These Edinburgh Fringe favourites were the breakout hit of BBC Radio 4's Sketchorama and have performed sell-out shows in London, New York and around the UK.
Packed with sharply observed characters, this debut from writer-performers Hannah Croft and Fiona Pearce is not to be missed.
In the second episode, a failed novelist is unable to hide her bitterness when confronted with an old friend’s success, maths teacher Miss Trent falls hopelessly and publicly in love with a new member of staff, and an IT manager is baffled at the technical ineptitude of his colleague.
Written and performed by Hannah Croft and Fiona Pearce
Producer: Liz Anstee
A CPL production for BBC Radio 4
WED 22:45 Cracking Up (b08pfq5n)
Series 1
A Recipe for Disaster
Psychotherapist divorcee Spencer Pandy attempts to reassert his parental credentials through the medium of a Banqueté Mexicano - though ex-wife Tina is bemused at his request for the children to arrive at
6:30 for 7.
Spencer's search for authentic corn chips and guacamole leads to him being forcibly ejected from a supermarket, arrested at Chalk Farm station and close to being reported for humiliating a distraught female client.
Children Dylan and Tilly arrive for the meal dressed as Zapatistas with huge, magic marker moustaches. Discovering the disguises have been applied by Tina's boyfriend Owen, Spencer is incensed and proceeds to have a fight with the supermarket delivery driver for being early.
A Big Talk production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in May 2017.
WED 23:00 Lobby Land (m00076vg)
Series 2
Brecon Bad
Sam heads to Wales to cover the fallout from the Brecon and Radnorshire by-election, giving Mia the worst birthday of her life.
Starring Yasmine Akram, Charlie Higson, Cariad Lloyd, Dan Tetsell and Daniel Lawrence Taylor.
Written by Jon Harvey, Christopher Davies and Sarah Dempster
Produced by Jon Harvey
A Naked production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2019.
WED 23:30 Alun Cochrane's Fun House (b01rvpvf)
The Bathroom
Comedian Alun Cochrane has a 25 year mortgage which he can only pay off by being funny. In this series he takes us on a room by room, stand up tour of his house.
He has a fridge that beeps at him when he doesn't move quickly enough and a fire alarm he can't reach. His relationship with his house is a complicated one.
A hoarder of funny and original observations on everyday life, Alun invites us to help him de-clutter his mind and tidy his ideas into one of those bags that you hoover all the air out of and keep under your bed. This show will help Alun and his house work through their relationship issues and prevent a separation that Alun can ill afford; at least not until the market picks up anyway.
Starring ... Alun Cochrane and Gavin Osborn
Written by ... Alun Cochrane and Andy Wolton
Produced by ... Carl Cooper.
THURSDAY 21 JANUARY 2021
THU 00:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jpnn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:00 on Wednesday]
THU 00:30 Short Cuts (b0b42z8t)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:30 on Wednesday]
THU 01:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b012wzzj)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 on Wednesday]
THU 01:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076trz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 on Wednesday]
THU 02:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b084xrdb)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:00 on Wednesday]
THU 02:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b0832rj6)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:15 on Wednesday]
THU 02:30 Who Wears The Trousers? - George Burns and Gracie Allen (m000rdkg)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:30 on Wednesday]
THU 03:00 Drama (b08xxgld)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 on Wednesday]
THU 04:00 The Motion Show (b0075wj0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 on Wednesday]
THU 04:30 Rent (b00752lq)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 on Wednesday]
THU 05:00 Deborah Frances-White Rolls the Dice (b07wtkg1)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 on Wednesday]
THU 05:30 Conversations from a Long Marriage (m000r4w0)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 on Wednesday]
THU 06:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b0131yvn)
Episode 3
As each day passes with Greg still missing after the fight, Detective Lippenholtz is finding Robert's story harder to believe.
Patricia Highsmith's intriguing tale of obsession stars John Sharian as Robert Forester, Adrian Lester as Greg Wyncoop, Joanne McQuinn as Jenny Theirolf, Briony Glassco as Nickie Jurgen and Peter Marinker as Detective Lippenholtz.
Adapted by Shaun McKenna.
Music composed and performed by David Chilton
Director: Marion Nancarrow
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2002.
THU 06:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tw5)
The Mysterious Affair at Styles
Episode 4
Hercule Poirot, Captain Hastings and Detective Inspector Japp have become heavily involved with the case, but everyone in the household has an alibi for the time of the murder.
Agatha Christie’s 1920 thriller.
CAST:
Hercule Poirot …. John Moffatt
Hastings …. Simon Williams
Japp …. Philip Jackson
John …. Sean Arnold
Mary …. Susan Jameson
Lawrence …. Nicholas Boulton
Evie …. Nichola McAuliffe
Dorcas …. Hilda Schroder
Mr Phillips …. Ioan Meredith
Sir Ernest …. Michael Mears
Costumier's Assistant …. Richard Katz
Original music composed by Tom Smail.
Dramatist: Michael Bakewell
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2005.
THU 07:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b064z75b)
Series 4
The Panel Show
Damien is persuaded to appear on topical TV panel show "I Beg Your Pardon" in order to boost his profile ahead of his street food series. Meanwhile, Anthony and Mr Mullaney's property business has developed to the point at which they can now start buying somewhere to do up. Will Anthony plump for the right property though?
Starring:
Miles Jupp as Damien Trench
Justin Edwards as Anthony
Philip Fox as Ian Frobisher
Brendan Dempsey as Mr Mullaney
Mark Edel-Hunt as The Auctioneer/Ivan
Alex Tregear as Livi Hollinshead
and
Stephen Critchlow as Gavin Colthorpe
The producer was Sam Michell
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2015.
THU 07:30 Elephant in the Room (m000r4wn)
Series 2
Episode 2
Sarah Millican's hit panel show returns, using surveys to discover who is the most Average Jolene and who is the most Maverick Matilda. This week's sparkling panel features Jo Brand, Ruth Bragg, Sara Cox and Daliso Chaponda.
Surveys on subjects including childhood, daily rituals and favourite cheese are the basis for Sarah's questions to the panellists, discovering who is the closest to, and furthest from, the average. Surprising quirks, hilarious insights and unexpected anecdotes are revealed along the way.
The winner will be the most average. But joint winner will be the most different - the furthest from the norm.
A little bit like a dinner party, but one where you know all of the spoons.
Written by Sarah Millican, Gabby Hutchinson Crouch, Jess Fostekew, Juliet Meyers and Sian Harries.
Produced by Lianne Coop.
A Chopsy production for BBC Radio 4
THU 08:00 Round the Horne (b00j05w2)
Series 1
Episode 2
Kenneth Horne's secrets from the BBC backroom boys and continuing 'The Clissold Saga'.
With Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden and Bill Pertwee.
Recorded at the BBC's Paris Studio in Lower Regent Street, London. Announcer: Douglas Smith
Round The Horne was born out of the demise of BBC radio comedy Beyond Our Ken, after the end of writer Eric Merriman's involvement. Using the same cast and producer, Barry Took and Marty Feldman were persuaded to write the scripts - which led to four series that ran between 1965 and 1968 - packed full of parodies, recurring characters, catchphrases and double-entendres.
Music by Edwin Braden and the Hornblowers and The Fraser Hayes Four.
Producer: John Simmonds
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in March 1965.
THU 08:30 Wally Who? (b08t1h6n)
The Painting
"Good Grief. There's all my old love letters in there. Listen to this one: "My dearest darling. I will kill myself if you won't see me on Tuesday. I adore you, I want you. Little Petal Wettikins." You know Eric, I often wonder why I never posted them..."
After his Uncle Ben's funeral, Wally Thornton unearths some hidden treasures.
Starring Tony Brandon as Wally. With Chris Ellison, John Jardine, Nick Maloney and Rosalind Knight.
Tony Brandon's BBC career was mainly as a disc-jockey for Radio 1 and 2 from 1967-1982, but as an actor, he also recorded the comedy series 'The Family Brandon' and 'Wally Who?'.
Written by Rob Grant and Doug Naylor.
Theme and incidental music by Debbie Katz.
Produced in Manchester by Mike Craig.
First broadcast on BBC Radio in November 1982.
THU 09:00 Quote... Unquote (m000bvwz)
Ken Cheng, Helen Lewis, Luke Jennings
Quote … Unquote, the popular celebrity quotations quiz, returns for its 55th series.
Join Nigel as he quizzes a host of celebrity guests on the origins of sayings and well-known quotes, and gets the famous panel to share their favourite anecdotes.
Across forty years, Nigel Rees has been joined by writers, actors, musicians, scientists and various comedy types. Kenneth Williams, Judi Dench, PD James, Sir Ian McKellen and Peter Ustinov... have all graced the Quote...Unquote stage.
Episode 1
Stand up comedian Ken Cheng
Journalist and author Helen Lewis
Author and dance critic Luke Jennings
Quotes read by Sally Grace
Production Coordinator: Candace Wilson
Produced by Simon Nicholls
A BBC Studios Production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in December 2019.
THU 09:30 Robin and Wendy's Wet Weekends (b0088zqz)
Series 2
Take the High Road
Robin is driving to Glasgow, but Wendy lets the train take the strain. Stars Kay Stonham and Simon Greenall. From May 2003.
THU 10:00 Ethel Lena White - The Lady Vanishes (b017557m)
A train, a missing governess and evil Nazi plans for Europe. All aboard for a gripping ride to adventure.
Dramatised by Neville Teller from Ethel Lina White’s novel ‘The Wheel Spins’.
CAST:
Miss Froy …. Renee Asherson
Iris …. Jenny Funnell
Wilberforce …. Mark Tandy
Maximillan Hare …. Mark Payton
Dr Traunitz/Stephen Yardley …. Richard Durden
Baroness/Mrs Todhunter …. Shirley Dixon
Prince Frederick/Mr Barnes/Porter …. Jonathan Keeble
Baron Hoffmeir/Mr Todhunter …. Michael Roberts
Ian Bretherton/Ticket Collector …. Geoffrey Beevers
Evelyn Flood-Porter/Frau ummer …. Geraldine Fitzgerald
Rose Flood-Porter/Frau Kummer …. Jan Shand
Mrs Barnes …. Karen Lewis
The book was also adapted as a 1938 British thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock
Director: Andy Jordan
First broadcast on the BBC World Service in 1999.
THU 11:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m000rbj2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 on Sunday]
THU 11:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00m45d2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 on Sunday]
THU 12:00 Round the Horne (b00j05w2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
THU 12:30 Wally Who? (b08t1h6n)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
THU 13:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b0131yvn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
THU 13:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tw5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
THU 14:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b0850153)
General Loewenhielm's Speech
The members of Martine and Phillipa’s church are joined by the sophisticated figure of General Loewenhielm as they meet for Babette’s special meal, created to honour the Dean’s memory.
Sylvestra Le Touzel reads Karen Blixen’s classic story.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2016.
THU 14:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b0833sfc)
Cassie's Episode
The transformative Brighton Ladies Sea Swimming Club alters lives. Five very different women's paths cross at this tough wild swimming club.
Can newcomer Cassie be accepted by the group after stealing from them?
By Charlotte Jones
Cassie ..... Keziah Joseph
Shelley ..... Michel Austin
Davina ..... Sheila Reid
Jane ..... Karen Bartke
Angie ..... Josie Lawrence
Police Officer ..... John Bowler
Directed by Liz Webb
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2016.
THU 14:30 Up A Gum Tree (b0075kfc)
It's a health-giving, circulation-boosting, teeth-preserving, breath-freshening, digestion-aiding, brain-clearing, chest-developing, nerve-settling national past time. Love it or hate it, chewing gum is here to stay. But it turns out it's not only today's teenagers who munch on gum. The ancient remains of a gum buried with a stone-age teenager have also been discovered.
So just how long has chewing gum been around? Pete McCarthy takes you on a whirlwind tour of the bubblegum years.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1999.
THU 15:00 Ethel Lena White - The Lady Vanishes (b017557m)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 today]
THU 16:00 Quote... Unquote (m000bvwz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
THU 16:30 Robin and Wendy's Wet Weekends (b0088zqz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 today]
THU 17:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b064z75b)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 today]
THU 17:30 Elephant in the Room (m000r4wn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
THU 18:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jprf)
The Red Planet
4. Meteors!
Captain Jet Morgan and his crew must take action in their battle against a cluster of meteors.
The mystery over Whitaker deepens - as tragedy strikes on board one of the Mars freighters.
Charles Chilton’s 1954 classic set in 1971.
Jet Morgan …. Andrew Faulds
Lemmy …. David Kossoff
Doc …. Guy Kingsley Poynter
Mitch …. Bruce Beeby
Announcer/Various …. David Jacobs
Various …. Anthony Marriott
Music composed and conducted by Van Phillips.
Producer: Charles Chilton
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in September 1954.
THU 18:30 Great Lives (b06ycr4x)
Series 38
Eliza Manningham-Buller chooses Abraham Lincoln
Former director of MI5, Eliza Manningham-Buller, tells Matthew Parris why she regards Abraham Lincoln as a great life.
But will her hero stand up to intensive scrutiny and merit the description of having led a great life? The expert is Dr Tony Hutchison, from the American Studies Department at the University of Nottingham.
The producer is Perminder Khatkar.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2016.
THU 19:00 Round the Horne (b00j05w2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
THU 19:30 Wally Who? (b08t1h6n)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
THU 20:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b0131yvn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
THU 20:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tw5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
THU 21:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (m000rbj2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 on Sunday]
THU 21:45 David Attenborough's Life Stories (b00m45d2)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:45 on Sunday]
THU 22:00 Elephant in the Room (m000r4wn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
THU 22:30 Old Harry's Game (b00bf9z0)
Series 4
Beautiful England
As Satan sets out to prove England is the worst nation, Scumspawn tackles a lager lout. Satanic sitcom stars Andy Hamilton. From April 2001.
THU 23:00 Craig Brown's Lost Diaries (b00vcms4)
May and June
Satirist Craig Brown dips into the private lives of public figures from the 1960's to the present day.
May & June. As the summer heats up passions rise for Barbara Cartland and Edwina Currie.
Voiced by Jan Ravens, Alistair McGowan, Lewis McLeod, Ewan Bailey, Margaret Cabourn-Smith and Dolly Wells.
Written by Craig Brown.
Produced by Victoria Lloyd.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2010.
THU 23:30 The Headset Set (b01nq7dx)
Series 2
Episode 2
Sketches set in a call centre called Smile 5, a mail order catalogue company that sells anything and everything. On the Smile 5 call centre floor, Bernie is excessively angry over her missing lunch.
Aleesha and other characters ..... Chizzy Akudolu
Bernie and other characters ..... Margaret-Cabourn Smith
Big Tony, Ralph and other characters ..... Colin Hoult
Various characters ..... Lucy Montgomery
Sailesh, Bradley and other characters ..... Phaldut sharma
Script editor: James Kettle.
Producer: Tilusha Ghelani.
First broadcast on Radio 4 in 2012.
FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2021
FRI 00:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jprf)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:00 on Thursday]
FRI 00:30 Great Lives (b06ycr4x)
[Repeat of broadcast at
18:30 on Thursday]
FRI 01:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b0131yvn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 on Thursday]
FRI 01:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tw5)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 on Thursday]
FRI 02:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b0850153)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:00 on Thursday]
FRI 02:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b0833sfc)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:15 on Thursday]
FRI 02:30 Up A Gum Tree (b0075kfc)
[Repeat of broadcast at
14:30 on Thursday]
FRI 03:00 Ethel Lena White - The Lady Vanishes (b017557m)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 on Thursday]
FRI 04:00 Quote... Unquote (m000bvwz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 on Thursday]
FRI 04:30 Robin and Wendy's Wet Weekends (b0088zqz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 on Thursday]
FRI 05:00 In and Out of the Kitchen (b064z75b)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 on Thursday]
FRI 05:30 Elephant in the Room (m000r4wn)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 on Thursday]
FRI 06:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b01381wz)
Episode 4
Robert has been shot. Could Greg Wyncoop - who has not been seen since they both fought by the river - really have done it? Or is his body lying in the morgue?
Patricia Highsmith's intriguing tale of obsession stars John Sharian as Robert Forester, Adrian Lester as Greg Wyncoop, Briony Glassco as Nickie Jurgen and Peter Marinker as Detective Lippenholtz.
Adapted by Shaun McKenna.
Music composed and performed by David Chilton
Director: Marion Nancarrow
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2002.
FRI 06:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tz9)
The Mysterious Affair at Styles
Episode 5
Captain Hastings and Detective Inspector Japp are bewildered by the antics of Hercule Poirot as he rushes back to Styles Court in a state of great excitement.
Agatha Christie’s 1920 thriller.
CAST:
Hercule Poirot …. John Moffatt
Hastings …. Simon Williams
Japp …. Philip Jackson
Mary …. Susan Jameson
Evie …. Nichola McAuliffe
Cynthia …. Annabelle Dowler
Dorcas …. Hilda Schroder
Lawrence …. Nicholas Boulton
Alfred …. Hugh Dickson
Original music composed by Tom Smail.
Dramatist: Michael Bakewell
Director: Enyd Williams
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2005.
FRI 07:00 Dot (b072j327)
Series 1
The Mystery at St Horribly-Vulture's School for Boys
Dot's sent to St Horribly Vulture's School for Boys to enlist a teacher for 'Shhhh Bletchley Park'.
But is he the right sort of chap for the job?
Comic adventures with Dot and the gals from personnel in the rollicking wartime comedy by Ed Harris.
Dot ..... Fenella Woolgar
Myrtle ..... Kate O'Flynn
Millicent ..... Jane Slavin
Peabody ..... David Acton
Mr Belltower ..... Brian Protheroe
Apsley ..... Sam Rix
Director: Jessica Mitic
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2016.
FRI 07:30 Stand-Up Specials (m000rbpz)
Imran Yusuf: Relabelled
We all have labels. Some we're given and some we actively choose. In his first show for Radio 4 Imran Yusuf ponders one label he was born with - man.
How do you learn to be a man and what does being a 'man' even mean? In this autobiographical audience show, Imran looks at where he got his role models from as a boy, what he thought being a man was all about and how that view changed radically as he became an adult. Jackie Chan might have been his inspiration when he was young but it was a woman who sparked self-awareness and change.
This is a very funny and honest account of his life and changing attitudes to manliness.
Imran earned a Best Newcomer nomination in the Fosters Awards for his first Edinburgh show in 2010.
Written and presented by Imran Yusuf
Producer: Alison Vernon-Smith
A Yada-Yada Audio production for BBC Radio 4
FRI 08:00 The Men from the Ministry (b00zvcml)
The Moving Target
The bumbling bureaucrats take charge of Britain's first space launch.
A weekly tribute to all those who work in government departments.
Stars Richard Murdoch and Deryck Guyler. With Norma Ronald, John Graham and Ronald Baddiley.
Written by Edward Taylor and John Graham.
'The Men from the Ministry' ran for 14 series between 1962 and 1977. Deryck Guyler replaced Wilfrid Hyde-White from 1966. Sadly many episodes didn't survive in the archive, however the BBC's Transcription Service re-recorded 14 shows in 1980 - never broadcast in the UK, until the arrival of BBC Radio 4 Extra.
Producer: Edward Taylor
First broadcast on the BBC Radio 4 in July 1970.
FRI 08:30 Second Thoughts (b007jx69)
Series 2
Youth and Consequences
Bill's new young image leaves Faith feeling old on her birthday.
Sitcom about the battles of divorcees Bill MacGregor and Faith Greyshott trying to forge a relationship whilst balancing the demands of his ex-wife, Liza and her teenage children, Hannah and Joe.
Stars Lynda Bellingham as Faith, James Bolam as Bill, Celia Imrie as Hilary, Belinda Lang as Liza, Kelda Holmes as Hannah, Mark Denham as Joe, Rebecca Front as Rachel and Ian Targett as Gideon.
Series two of four inspired by the real lives of its writers, husband and wife Jan Etherington and Gavin Petrie.
A TV version made by LWT for ITV appeared in 1991 and ran for four series, with a spin-off 'Faith in the Future'.
Producer: Sioned Wiliam
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1989.
FRI 09:00 The Personality Test (b007vt9q)
Series 3
Eve Pollard
All about Eve – writer and ex-newspaper editor Eve Pollard is in the hot seat posing questions all about her.
Tackling the ultra-personal quiz are Sue Perkins, Caroline Quinlan, Robin Ince and Will Smith.
Comedy quiz presented by a new guest host every show. All the questions are about them. .
Script by Simon Littlefield and Kieron Quirke.
Devised and produced by Aled Evans.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2007.
FRI 09:30 Bristow (b007rgl8)
Series 2
The Power of the Press
The Chester-Perry buying clerk crusades to improve conditions for cleaning ladies.
Michael Williams stars as Bristow, the buying clerk from Frank Dickens' famous newspaper cartoon strip. Syndicated internationally, it ran for 41 years in London's Evening Standard.
Bristow ...... Michael Williams
Jones ...... Rodney Bewes
Gert ...... Liz Fraser
Daisy ...... Joan Sims
Mrs Purdy ...... Dora Bryan
Hewitt ...... Owen Brenman
Miss Sunman ...... Katy Odey
Stationmaster ...... Jon Glover
Stoke ...... David Battley
Hickford ...... Roger Lloyd Pack
Lift Boy ...... Ian Kelland
Music composed and performed by John Whitehall.
Producer: Neil Cargill
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 1999.
FRI 10:00 Gerry Huxham - Russian Roulette (b007t4ll)
Dramatised events based on the life of the Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoyevsky, when he undertook a potentially disastrous bet that led to the writing of ‘The Gambler’.
Written by Gerry Huxham.
Dostoyevsky .... David Troughton
Anna ..... Amanda Gordon
Gregory .... Keith Drinkel
Alexis .... Robert Harper
Polina ... Elaine Pyke
Grandmama ....Shirley Dixon
General .... Denys Hawthorne
Stellovsky .... Stephen Thorne
Dubarry .... Christopher Scott
With Ioan Meredith, Chris Pavlo, Colleen Prendergast and Mark Bonnar
Director: Janet Whitaker
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1996.
FRI 11:00 Podcast Radio Hour (m000rdtl)
Presenters recommend their favourite podcasts and speak to the people who make them.
FRI 12:00 The Men from the Ministry (b00zvcml)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
FRI 12:30 Second Thoughts (b007jx69)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
FRI 13:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b01381wz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
FRI 13:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tz9)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
FRI 14:00 Babette's Feast by Karen Blixen (b0850b4c)
The Great Artist
As the exquisite food and wine are consumed, old fractures are healed and broken friendships mended. But the true cost of the feast will become clear when Babette reveals the truth about her past.
Sylvestra Le Touzel reads Karen Blixen’s classic story.
Producer: Eilidh McCreadie
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2016.
FRI 14:15 Wild Things by Charlotte Jones (b0833x3h)
Shelley's Episode
The transformative Brighton Ladies Sea Swimming Club alters lives. Five very different women's paths cross at this tough wild swimming club.
Shelley is not a member of the club, but her life and that of her daughter, depend on it.
By Charlotte Jones
Shelley ..... Michele Austin
Cassie ..... Keziah Joseph
Angie ..... Josie Lawrence
Davina ..... Sheila Reid
Jane ..... Karen Bartke
Police Officer ..... John Bowler
Directed by Liz Webb
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2016.
FRI 14:30 Ludwig Koch and the Music of Nature (b00jn4m2)
Ludwig Koch was once as famous as David Attenborough, as pioneering as 'Blue Planet' and as important as the BBC Natural History Unit. They all owe their existence to this German refugee who first recorded the music of nature. Through his archive and new field recordings the poet Sean Street tells the story of Ludwig Koch.
When Sean Street was recording in a store-room at the Science Museum for a Radio 4 archive programme he came across a grey crate, stencilled, as if it belonged to a band on tour, with KOCH on it. This was the disc-cutting machine which Ludwig Koch used for a decade to make the recordings of birds, mammals and insects that led to a new field of study, of broadcasting and the creation of the BBC's Natural History Unit.
Sean and his producer then began investigating and discovered that Koch made the first ever wildlife recording, of a bird, when he was eight, in 1889 - and that it still exists in the BBC's archives.
Koch was an effusive man and this led to several confrontations with Nazi officials, whom he despised. There is an extraordinary recording of him telling the story of a Berliner whose bullfinch sang 'The Internationale'. He was carted off to prison and the bird 'executed'. "Under dictatorship," Koch observed, "even songbirds suffer". He came to England, worked with Julian Huxley on theories of animal language, and recorded birds from the Scillies to Shetland.
In 1940 he joined the BBC and soon became a household name, beloved of comedians (there's a great sketch by Peter Sellers parodying him at work) because of his resolute pronunciation of English as if it were German.
As well as being wonderful radio in itself his work was of great significance. It inspired producer Desmond Hawkins to start 'The Naturalist', (using Koch's enchanting recording of a curlew as its signature tune). Sean Street uses his recordings and contributions of those who worked with him in what becomes a natural history programme in itself, with Koch the subject and Sean exploring his habits and habitat.
There is also an attempt to record curlews as he did so successfully, to shed light on the achievements of this courageous, influential and loveable genius. Today sound-recordists use tiny digital machines and sophisticated microphones. But there are other problems - traffic, planes, people - and fewer, shyer curlews.
Producer: Julian May
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2009.
FRI 15:00 Gerry Huxham - Russian Roulette (b007t4ll)
[Repeat of broadcast at
10:00 today]
FRI 16:00 The Personality Test (b007vt9q)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:00 today]
FRI 16:30 Bristow (b007rgl8)
[Repeat of broadcast at
09:30 today]
FRI 17:00 Dot (b072j327)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:00 today]
FRI 17:30 Stand-Up Specials (m000rbpz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
FRI 18:00 Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (b007jpv4)
The Red Planet
5. Communication Lost
With all communications back to Earth lost, the courage of Captain Jet Morgan is severely tested during a meteor swarm...
Charles Chilton’s 1954 classic set in 1971.
Jet Morgan …. Andrew Faulds
Lemmy …. David Kossoff
Doc …. Guy Kingsley Poynter
Mitch …. Bruce Beeby
Announcer/Various …. David Jacobs
Various …. Anthony Marriott
Music composed and conducted by Van Phillips.
Producer: Charles Chilton
First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in September 1954.
FRI 18:30 Off the Page (b00hr4lk)
Meeting a Star
Dominic Arkwright, James Delingpole, Agnes Poirier and Michael Simkins discuss stardom and our reaction to fame. From February 2009.
FRI 19:00 The Men from the Ministry (b00zvcml)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:00 today]
FRI 19:30 Second Thoughts (b007jx69)
[Repeat of broadcast at
08:30 today]
FRI 20:00 Patricia Highsmith - The Cry of the Owl (b01381wz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:00 today]
FRI 20:30 Hercule Poirot (b0076tz9)
[Repeat of broadcast at
06:30 today]
FRI 21:00 Podcast Radio Hour (m000rdtl)
[Repeat of broadcast at
11:00 today]
FRI 22:00 Stand-Up Specials (m000rbpz)
[Repeat of broadcast at
07:30 today]
FRI 22:30 The Consultants (b007k3fh)
Series 3
Episode 4
The boys of St Battery's get their own back on the school bully. Sketches and songs with Justin Edwards. From January 2005.
FRI 23:00 I've Never Seen Star Wars (b01q7bq4)
Series 5
Les Dennis
Les Dennis tries his first ever taste of cheese, reads The Lion The Witch and the Wardrobe, hears his first ever Rolling Stones Album and watches the hit comedy The Inbetweeners. He gives his verdict to Marcus Brigstocke.
Produced by Bill Dare.
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2013.
FRI 23:30 Richard Herring's Objective (b00vhgc7)
Series 1
The St George's Flag
Comedian Richard Herring reclaims those things we have given a bad name to.
Today he's reclaiming the English National Flag from any associations with far right extremists. Why does the man and woman on the street have no idea when St George's day is? Who is St George?
Richard asks a vexillologist (flag expert) about how flags have come to symbolise nations.He also talks to anthropologist Kate Fox who has studied the behaviour of the English, about why the English are not natural flag waving patriots. The show was recorded in front of an audience.
Producer: Tilusha Ghelani
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2010.