SATURDAY 29 APRIL 2023

SAT 00:00 All the Dark Corners (b015zrrz)
The Dying Wish by Rosemary Kay

Fran and her partner Abe are befriended by a lonely old woman, Joy, who lives in the flat above.

Joy persuades them to perform an ancient ritual after she's died. They unwittingly agree without realising the terrifying consequences of their action.

A quest for eternal life and the living dead permeate this chilling tale of horror.

Starring Sarah Smart.

Series of three chilling plays.

Written by Rosemary Kay.

Fran ..... Sarah Smart
Abe ..... Jonathan Keeble
David ..... Robert Pickavance
Joy ..... Janice McKenzie
Jack ..... James Quin

Director: Pauline Harris

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2011.


SAT 00:45 Algernon Blackwood's Ghost Stories (m001lcdx)
5. The Glamour Of The Snow

A tourist at a mountain ski resort becomes captivated by a mysterious young woman.

Selection of supernatural tales by English short-story writer Algernon Blackwood.

Abridged by Fiona McAlpine

Read by Hugh Ross.

Director: Clive Brill

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2006.


SAT 01:00 Emily Bronte - Wuthering Heights (b007jlm7)
5. Catherine's Plight

Catherine has been forced by Heathcliff to marry his ailing son Linton, so that he will be master of Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights.

Starring John Duttine and Emma Fielding.

Conclusion of Emily Bronte's tale of passion, jealousy and revenge.

Dramatised by Bryony Lavery.

Heathcliff ...... John Duttine
Catherine Linton ...... Emma Fielding
Nellie Dean ...... Sharon Duce
Mr Lockwood ...... David Collings
Hareton ...... Gary Cady
Joseph ..... Steve Hodson
Dr Kenneth ...... John Hartley
Zillah ...... Becky Hindley
Ghost of Cathy ...... Amanda Root

Producer: Janet Whitaker.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1995.


SAT 02:00 The Quarry (m0010y1j)
5. Truth Revealed

Why did Reinke shout "let it burn?"

The chilling secret behind Douglas and Penelope's painting is finally revealed...

Stars Barry Foster, Penelope Lee and Frederick Schrecker.

Conclusion of the thriller serial by Jon Rollason and Keith Williams.

Douglas Shemley .... Barry Foster
Penelope Shemley …. Penelope Lee
Simon Shaft .... Roddy Maude-Roxby
Reinke .... Frederick Schrecker
Paul .... Andrew Sachs
Ruth .... Isabel Rennie
American .... Peter Marinker
Hotel Receptionist .... Glyn Dearman

Producer: John Tydeman

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in February 1965.


SAT 02:30 Raffles (m0001p3l)
Series 2

5. A Trap To Catch A Cracksman

When an American pugilist boasts of inventing a trap to catch the cleverest cracksman alive, it’s a challenge Raffles is quite unable to resist - with disastrous consequences...

Starring Jeremy Clyde.

EW Hornung's Raffles stories about the 'gentleman thief'.

Dramatised by David Buck.

AJ Raffles ...... Jeremy Clyde
Bunny Manders ...... Michael Cochrane
Inspector Mackenzie ...... Henry Stamper
Maguire ...... Alan Tilvern
Hambone ...... Peter Banks
Cruncher ...... Michael Deacon
Ruby ...... Frances Jeater
Cabbie ...... Alan Dudley.

Signature tune composed by Jim Parker.

Director: Gordon House

A BBC Radio 4/ BBC World Service production first broadcast in June 1988.


SAT 03:00 Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths by Charlotte Higgins (b0bclw3j)
5. Nature

Charlotte Higgins turns her attention from man-made mazes and discusses the magical properties of some mazes made by nature (but featured in art)

From the dark, impenetrable forests of the Grimms' fairy tales, to the snow-bowed pines of CS Lewis's Narnia, to the haunting and mysterious moonlit woods of Paolo Uccello's 15th-century painting The Hunt in the Forest at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, "the first picture I dared to try to write about."

There are also some powerfully evocative childhood memories of a farm near her family home in Staffordshire, and the woods beside it which stretched down to the motorway that cut through the valley:

"I loved those woods, but they frightened me. Whenever I went into them I could feel them closing in. The freedom of the fields and the low, rolling hills would be lost. The sky would disappear..."

Series exploring more of our ancient fascination with mazes and labyrinths, and reflects on their significance - in art and in mythology, in literature and in life.

Written and concluded by Charlotte Higgins.

Abridged and produced by David Jackson Young.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2018.


SAT 03:15 Edna O'Brien - The Country Girls Trilogy (m0007yls)
The Country Girls

10. Shattered Dreams

Kate'and Baba's Dublin dreams fall prey to sex and sickness.

Conclusion of Edna O’Brien’s frank, funny and subversive story of friendship and growing up in rural Ireland in the 1950s - seen through the eyes of two friends.

Dramatised by Lin Coghlan.

Kate ...... Charlie Murphy
Baba ...... Aoibhinn McGinnity
Mr Gentlemen ...... Paul Chahidi
Reg ...... Ciarán McMenamim
Joanna ...... Susan Jameson
Minnie ...... Ell Potter

Directors: Sally Avens & Jessica Dromgoole

First broadcast on Radio 4 in August 2019.


SAT 03:30 Bridget Christie's Utopia (b09qfv98)
Series 1

Disengage

As Bridget Christie struggles to come to terms with current world events - Kim Jong-un, the melting polar ice caps, the Brexit negotiations and Nick Knowles singing a cover of The Beatles "Here Comes The Sun", she embarks on a comic quest for her Utopia.

She's seeking a way of living that will make her less anxious and enable her to have her first happy week since the Brexit vote in 2016.

In this opening episode, Bridget explores politically disengaging for a week - to see if that will make her happier.

Will not reading the papers, abstaining from all social media and not watching rolling news reports bring a smile to Bridget's face and be the answer to all her problems?

Or will life still be completely rubbish? In her quest to disengage from the turmoil that is world news, Bridget goes to see Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats, has an aqua massage and stands in her garden.

Will she switch off?

Stand-up show recorded in front of a studio audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

With special guests

Mike Christie
Leyla Hussein

Producers: Simon Nicholls & Alison Vernon-Smith

A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in February 2018.


SAT 04:00 Steptoe and Son (b00rzkyb)
Series 1

Wallah, Wallah, Catsmeat

The rag and bone business falters when Hercules the horse needs a vet.

Starring Wilfrid Brambell and Harry H Corbett.

Classic sitcom about the lives of rag and bone men Albert Steptoe and his son Harold.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.

Albert ...... Wilfrid Brambell
Harold ...... Harry H Corbett
The Vet ...... Eric Woodburn
Lionel ...... Leslie Dwyer
Charlie ...... Peter Hawkins.

The 1962 BBC TV comedy pilot 'The Offer' sparked a run of 8 series.

Adapted for BBC radio from the TV script by Gale Pedrick.

Producer: Bobby Jaye

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in August 1966.


SAT 04:30 Flying the Flag (b00dhkzf)
Series 4

In Custody

‘We are representatives of Democracy in this benighted place, William. We enshrine the values of liberty, tolerance and free speech. By the way, why is that woman chained to the embassy railings..?'

Ambassador Mackenzie must tackle the delicate issue of a Briton being held hostage.

Starring Dinsdale Landen.

Eastern Bloc embassy sitcom written by Alex Shearer.

HM Ambassador Mackenzie …. Dinsdale Landen
William Frost …. Peter Acre
Helen Waterson …. Moir Leslie
Colonel Surikov …. Christopher Benjamin
Spiro …. Stephen Greif

Producer: Neil Cargill

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 1992.


SAT 05:00 The Museum of Curiosity (m0011ch7)
Series 16

Episode 4

Professor of Ignorance John Lloyd and his curator Holly Walsh welcome:

* Comedian, actor and presenter Griff Rhys Jones
* Bestselling author Mary Roach
* Award-winning poet Lemn Sissay

Mary Roach talks about her latest book Animal, Vegetable, Criminal which is about animals who break the law.

Lemn Sissay explores the role of a poet and his Christmas Day Project to provide Christmas dinners for care leavers.

Griff Rhys Jones discusses his time on Not The Nine O’Clock News and his love for the River Lea.

This series was recorded remotely.

Researchers: Mike Shepherd, Mike Turner and Jack Chambers of QI.

Producer: Anne Miller

A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in November 2021.


SAT 05:30 Trevor's World of Sport (b00nsnhv)
Series 3

Episode 6

Trevor wakes up next to a beautiful young woman.

And Ralph wakes up with a new face.

Starring Neil Pearson.

Andy Hamilton's comedy about a sports agent's brave attempts to swim safely through the shark tank of life.

Trevor ...... Neil Pearson
Sammy ...... Paul Reynolds
Ralph ...... Michael Fenton Stevens
Theresa ...... Rosalind Ayres
Heidrun ...... Cosima Shaw
Barry ...... Abdul Salis
Meryl ...... Claire Skinner
Gerry ...... Kevin R McNally

Written and produced by Andy Hamilton.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2007.


SAT 06:00 Henrik Ibsen - A Doll's House (b01n6r1w)
Tanika Gupta transposes the setting of Henrik Ibsen's classic play to India in1879.

'Nora', now Niru, is an Indian woman married to 'Torvald', now Tom, an English man working for the British Colonial Administration in Calcutta.

Niru risks her own reputation in order to save her husband's and in the process discovers herself.

Starring Indira Varma and Toby Stephens.

This fresh version of A Doll's House takes a fresh look at the play shining a light on British colonial history and race relations as well as gender politics and class.

Niru ..... Indira Varma
Tom ..... Toby Stephens
Mrs Lahiri ..... Shaheen Khan
Kaushik Das ..... Shiv Grewal
Uma ..... Rani Moorthy
Dr Rank ..... Conrad Nelson
Bob ..... James Allen
Peter ..... Matthew Allen
Tabla Maestro ..... Shahbaz Hussain
Dancer ..... Anjum Malik

Director: Nadia Molinari

First broadcast on BBC Radio 3 in October 2012.


SAT 08:00 The Hartlepool Spy (m0001qvl)
1804. Britain is, just for a change, at war with France.

Napoleon’s spies are everywhere. Towns and villages along the east coast are on high alert. Ships from Bonaparte’s navy have been spotted just beyond the range of English artillery, looking for weaknesses in defence. Invasion is expected any day.

When times are tough, people look for strong leadership.

Alas, the people of the North Eastern fishing town of Hartlepool have a corrupt mayor, Tucker Palmer and a narcissistic vicar, Rev William Ferrier. The two men can’t stand one another, each (correctly) suspecting the other of lining his pocket at the expense of the parish, and each in competition for the favour of local land-owner aristo Lady Embleton.

One Sunday morning, Lady Embleton, Mayor Palmer and his formidable wife Mrs Palmer are in the front pew as Ferrier delivers an impassioned sermon about the vain delusions of those with earthly power, when news comes from the harbour. A French ship has been spotted and it’s heading their way.

Emmy-winning writer Ian Martin’s dark comedy on the timeless themes of xenophobia, groupthink and fake news, about the perilous mental landscape of suspended disbelief.

And, through the petty bickering of a town in fear, it explores just how greedy and stupid people can really be.

Starring Michael Palin.

All-star comedy-drama written by Ian Martin.

Cavendish …. Michael Palin
Reverend Ferrier …. Jim Moir
Mayor Palmer …. Toby Jones
Lady Embleton …. Gina McKee
Mrs Palmer …. Monica Dolan
Garvey …. Jason Forbes
The Monkey …. Robin Berry

Other parts played by:

Robin Berry
Laura Elphinstone

Producer: Sam Ward

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2018.


SAT 08:45 Uncle Mort's North Country (b007jrcs)
Series 2

2084

Carter Brandon takes his uncle off to ponder growing old over a pint.

Peter Tinniswood’s continuing tales of Carter Brandon and his curmudgeonly uncle.

Uncle Mort and his Yorkshire based family first appeared in Tinniswood’s novel ‘A Touch Of Daniel’.

In addition to radio adaptations, this earned them a run of four BBC TV series of ‘I Didn't Know You Cared’ from 1975 to 1979.

Uncle Mort …. Stephen Thorne
Carter Brandon …. Peter Skellern
The Barmaid …. Liz Goulding
Narrator …. Christian Rodska

Producer: Pete Atkin

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1989.


SAT 09:00 We're in Business (b07qfwm0)
The Newspaper Business

Can Dudley and Harry make a go of it in the newspaper business?

Stars Peter Jones and Harry Worth.

Peter Jones is small-time businessman, Dudley Grosvenor who's always out to make a fast buck - usually at the expense of his side-kick, Harry Worth.

Written by Marty Feldman, Barry Took and Peter Jones.

Dudley ....... Peter Jones
Harry ....... Harry Worth
Miss Boot ....... Irene Handl
Lady Crabbe ....... Beryl Reid
Mr Trumpet ....... Dick Emery

A selection of surviving episodes from two series broadcast between 1959-1960.

Producer: Charles Maxwell.

First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in May 1960.


SAT 09:30 Whack-O! (b065y6qz)
Exposure!

A sneaky Sunday tabloid is after a school expose.

Will Professor Jimmy Edwards be able to fight back?

Starting life on BBC TV before transferring to radio, Chiselbury School is run "for the sons of gentlefolk".

Headmaster, Professor James Edwards, MA never misses a trick when it comes to exploiting the students and their parents. Sports pitches are given over to growing vegetables, which the boys nurture for their head to sell. Classes never exceed 95 pupils - 50 if private tuition is paid for at five guineas extra.

It's only thanks to the efforts of the devoted deputy head, Mr Pettigrew, that the school exists at all.

Written by Frank Muir and Denis Norden.

Adapted by David Climie.

Headmaster…. Jimmy Edwards
Matron …. June Whitfield
Aubrey Potter …. Roddy Maude-Roxby
Alfred Tennyson …. Frederick Treves
Lumley …. Roger Shepherd
Figgins …. Graham Aza
Marvin …. Malcolm Ranson

With:

Richard McCarthy
Michael Hammond

Producer: Edward Taylor

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in August 1961.


SAT 10:00 The Mastertapes Guide to Writing the Perfect Song (m000zky4)
3. Who's It For?

Randy Newman, Laura Marling, Lily Allen, Noel Gallagher, David Albarn [The Good, The Bad and The Queen], Elvis Costello, David Gray, Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook [Squeeze], David Crosby, Graham Nash, Emeli Sande and Sir Paul McCartney give a masterclass in the art of songwriting.

In the last of three programmes, John Wilson looks back over more of his conversations with 45 acclaimed songwriters for BBC Radio 4's series ‘Mastertapes’.

Recorded with an audience of fans at the BBC Maida Vale studios in London, each guest focuses on a key album from their career, describing in detail how dozens of much loved hit songs were written.

Now, the ‘Mastertapes’ guests are brought together to offer a unique how-to guide to writing the perfect song.

In this episode, Randy Newman reflects on writing for films and Graham Nash recalls Neil Young’s unique playback system.

Presented and produced by John Wilson.

Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in May 2021.


SAT 11:00 Henrik Ibsen - A Doll's House (b01n6r1w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


SAT 13:00 The Hartlepool Spy (m0001qvl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


SAT 13:45 Uncle Mort's North Country (b007jrcs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


SAT 14:00 We're in Business (b07qfwm0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


SAT 14:30 Whack-O! (b065y6qz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


SAT 15:00 The Mastertapes Guide to Writing the Perfect Song (m000zky4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


SAT 16:00 All the Dark Corners (b015zrrz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:00 today]


SAT 16:45 Algernon Blackwood's Ghost Stories (m001lcdx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:45 today]


SAT 17:00 Henrik Ibsen - A Doll's House (b01n6r1w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


SAT 19:00 The Hartlepool Spy (m0001qvl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


SAT 19:45 Uncle Mort's North Country (b007jrcs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 today]


SAT 20:00 We're in Business (b07qfwm0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


SAT 20:30 Whack-O! (b065y6qz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


SAT 21:00 The Mastertapes Guide to Writing the Perfect Song (m000zky4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


SAT 22:00 Nick Mohammed in Bits (b00tjdnz)
Witness Statement

There's been a robbery!!

So Nick dons a police helmet to take statements.

An unhappy couple are called on to testify.

Written by and starring Nick Mohammed.

With:

Colin Hoult
Anna Crilly

Series of one-off comic plays showcasing the best of Nick Mohammed's idiosyncratic comic character creations.

Producer: Victoria Lloyd

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2010.


SAT 22:30 Mark Watson Makes the World Substantially Better (b00d0sjl)
Series 2

Patience

Mark Watson examines the importance of holding your horses.

Part of the comedian's continuing quest to to delve into six virtues.

Biding their time in order to provide poetry and music:

Tim Key
Tim Minchin

Producer: Katie Marsden

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2008.


SAT 23:00 Comedy Club at Machynlleth (m001lhtn)
2023

29/04/2023

Stephen Bailey, Isy Suttie, Esyllt Sears and Rob Deering meet performers from a weekend of comedy, poetry and music in Wales.


SAT 23:15 Rosie Jones: Box Ticker Too (m0011lxg)
Gender, with Bethany Black

Stand-up comedy and chat from triple-threat Rosie Jones. She’s disabled, gay and northern.

But she’s not a great example of any of these communities and she’s tired of being asked to speak on their behalf.

Rosie looks at gender with help from comedian Bethany Black.

Society has moved on since the 1990s, and Bethany has had a unique perspective on the change in attitudes to men, women and everything between.

Recorded in a live comedy club, prepare to be shocked and disappointed by Rosie’s lack of respect for your expectations.

Producer: Richard Melvin

A Dabster production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in November 2021.


SAT 23:30 4 Stands Up (b00fhr36)
Series 2

Episode 4

Welsh comic Rhod Gilbert invites old hands and fresh faces on the comedy circuit to perform.

With:

Miles Jupp
Ginger and Black
Justin Moorhouse

Producer: Tilusha Ghelani

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2008.

SUNDAY 30 APRIL 2023

SUN 00:00 Terry Pratchett (b010tzfb)
Night Watch

3. Enemy

Thrown back in time, Commander Sam Vimes of the City Watch is training his young self in the art of policing - but then he runs into old enemy, Carcer.

Adapted from Terry Pratchett's Discworld novel

Sam Vimes........Philip Jackson
Young Sam.........Carl Prekopp
Carcer...................Paul Ritter
Rosie......................Clare Corbett
Colon.....................Sam Dale
Dr Lawn.................Ben Onwukwe
Tilden......................Peter Marinker
Lady Meserole......Rachel Atkins

Dramatised by Robin Brooks.

Director: Claire Grove

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2008.


SUN 00:30 Simon Bovey - Cold Blood (b007jv49)
5. The Antarctican

The struggle at the South Pole continues.

Having witnessed the destruction of the Ellsworth Research Centre and the death of several of their colleagues, the survivors prepare to flee...

Conclusion of Simon Bovey's 5-part sci-fi thriller set in 2015.

CAST:

Bowers …. Tim McMullan
Commander Taft …. Tom Mannion
Max Bellingfield …. Stuart McLoughlin
Anaya …. Ndidi Del Fatti
Deborah …. Helen Longworth

Director: Marc Beeby

Made for BBC 7 and first broadcast in 2005.


SUN 01:00 Henrik Ibsen - A Doll's House (b01n6r1w)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Saturday]


SUN 03:00 The Hartlepool Spy (m0001qvl)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Saturday]


SUN 03:45 Uncle Mort's North Country (b007jrcs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:45 on Saturday]


SUN 04:00 We're in Business (b07qfwm0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Saturday]


SUN 04:30 Whack-O! (b065y6qz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Saturday]


SUN 05:00 The Mastertapes Guide to Writing the Perfect Song (m000zky4)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Saturday]


SUN 06:00 Poetry Extra (m001lj2d)
Balloon with a View

Poet Daljit Nagra revisits the BBC's poetry archive and selects 'Balloon with a View'.

We're floating silently in the sky beneath a giant pink balloon.

The passengers peer at allotments in rows, over garden walls, spy a police car speeding through suburban streets, a train curving on rails into a tunnel, a sleepy teenager creeping home down an alley, , a woman in a pink dressing gown drinking a cup of tea as her dogs patrol the garden... and finally a magnificent crossing of the River Avon, bird song reaching up to the basket of the balloon drifting silently above.

Birds fly below, wispy clouds hit the bleary eyed faces of two poets a composer and an air pilot, passing over the city of Bristol in the early morning.

Combining the sounds heard from a balloon, with the words and poems of Miles Chambers, Poet Laureate for Bristol and Rebecca Tantony (both first time balloonists), join us on a journey over the city, hearing sound rising up unimpeded from the waking city.

Also in the basket, multi-award winning composer Dan Jones, who brings on board both his music and his previous experience as the sound designer for a fleet of balloons called Sky Orchestra.

And of course the pilot, Peter Dalby, who spends his life staring down at the world from above.

For the balloonist there is no friction; sound rises curiously unimpeded upwards with zero interference. We bring a rich mix of propane burner gushing, the dawn chorus, a choir of city sounds captured in a balloon, all mixed with the magical music of Dan Jones.

Producer: Sara Jane Hall.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2018.


SUN 06:30 Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths by Charlotte Higgins (Omnibus) (b0bd7087)
Charlotte Higgins explores our ancient fascination with mazes and labyrinths, and reflects on their significance - in art and in mythology, in literature and in life.

Her own interest was inspired by a childhood visit to the palace of Knossos on the island of Crete - where, according to legend, King Minos ordered the construction of a labyrinth to house the half-bull, half-man Minotaur. The monstrous creature was slain by the hero Theseus, who famously managed to escape from the labyrinth with the help of a ball of red thread supplied by Minos's daughter, Ariadne.

"This is where it began," writes Higgins, "my longing for the labyrinth..."

It was also the beginning of her career as a classicist: "I tried to learn my way back there," she says, going on to study Greek and Latin at school and then at Oxford.

As for her own sense of direction: "I have never been able to find my way. Turn me loose in a city without a map and panic rises, as if I were a child who had lost the grip of a parent's hand in a crowd."

And in life? "What frightens me more than the wrong turns I have taken ... are the right turns, the ones I so nearly didn't take...."

Charlotte Higgins is chief culture writer of the Guardian and the author of three previous books on the ancient world, including Under Another Sky: Journeys in Roman Britain, short-listed for the Baillie Gifford prize for non-fiction. She is also the author of This New Noise: the Extraordinary Birth and Troubled Life of the BBC.

Written and read by Charlotte Higgins.

Produced and abridged in five parts by David Jackson Young.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2018.


SUN 07:40 Inheritance Tracks (m001lj2g)
Andrew Roachford

Singer-songwriter Andrew Roachford picks ‘Let's Stay Together’ by Al Green and ‘Move On Up’ by Curtis Mayfield.


SUN 07:50 Edna O'Brien - The Country Girls Trilogy (Omnibus) (m000838x)
The Country Girls

Episode 2

Best friends Kate and Baba hate their school life as boarders at a convent, but the Christmas holidays offer welcome respite.

Plus, it's a chance for Kate to rekindle her relationship with the much older, Mr Gentleman.

Edna O'Brien's classic tale of coming of age in rural Ireland in the Fifties was banned on publication; it is a frank, funny and subversive portrayal of women's lives within a patriarchal and religious society.

Conclusion of Edna O’Brien’s frank, funny and subversive story of womanhood in Ireland in the 1950s.

The trilogy was banned in the 1960s by the Irish Censorship Board, but it's now recognised as an iconic work of 20th century Irish fiction.

Omnibus of the last five of ten parts dramatised by Lin Coghlan.

Kate ...... Charlie Murphy
Baba ...... Aoibhinn McGinnity
Mr Gentleman ...... Paul Chahidi
Dada ...... David Ganly
Martha ...... Deirdre Mullins
Mr Brennan ...... Paul Hickey
Jack Holland ...... Jonjo O'Neill
Mrs Holland ...... Susan Jameson

Directors: Sally Avens & Jessica Dromgoole

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2019.


SUN 09:00 A Date With Nurse Dugdale (b04v986f)
The ever-efficient Nurse Dugdale battles to arrange the hospital pageant.

Arthur Marshall's comic creation, Nurse Dugdale was a popular addition to the BBC Home Service schedule in the latter years of the Second World War.

Written by Arthur Marshall.

With:

Marjorie Westbury
John Slater
Jack Jackson

Special guest: Emile Littler.

Music from:

The Mayfair Hotel Dance Orchestra
Josephine Driver
Dorothe Morrow's Aristocrats
The Singing Sailor, Ivor Pye.

Musical arrangements by Peter Akister and Phil Cardew.

Producer: David Yates Mason.

First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in May 1944.


SUN 09:30 The Navy Lark (m001lj2j)
Series 9

Fishing off the Faroes

Can the crew of HMS Troutbridge prevent a diplomatic fishing incident?

Stars Leslie Phillips, Jon Pertwee and Stephen Murray.

Laughs afloat aboard British Royal Navy frigate HMS Troutbridge.

Written by Lawrie Wyman

The Sub-Lieutenant ...... Leslie Phillips
The Chief Petty Officer ...... Jon Pertwee
The Number One ...... Stephen Murray
Captain Povey ...... Richard Caldicot
Mrs Povey / Wren Heather Chasen ….. Heather Chasen
Able Seaman Johnson ….. Ronnie Barker
NAAFI Manager …. Michael Bates
Taffy Goldstein ….. Tenniel Evans

The Navy Lark ran for an impressive 13 series between 1959 and 1976.

Producer: Alastair Scott Johnston.

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in July 1967.


SUN 10:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b08dxdyn)
Michael Palin

Sheffield-born comedian, actor, writer and TV presenter Michael Palin shares his castaway choices with Roy Plomley.

Palin’s theatrical career began at Oxford University where he wrote and performed with friends. David Frost saw Palin and Terry Jones perform at the Edinburgh Festival and brought all future members of Monty Python together, first as writers for satirical TV show The Frost Report.

After finishing at Oxford, Palin compered a TV comedy show in Bristol, much to his parents’ disappointment, but eventually convinced the BBC to commission Monty Python’s Flying Circus.

This surreal TV sketch show series starred Palin, along with John Cleese, Terry Jones, Graham Chapman, Eric Idle and Terry Gilliam.

After a bumpy start, Python became a huge influence on British comedy.

DISC ONE: Things Ain't What They Used To Be - Duke Ellington and His Orchestra
DISC TWO: Tales of Men's Shirts - The Goons
DISC THREE: Londonderry Air (Danny Boy) - Black Dyke Band
DISC FOUR: You're A Heartbreaker - Elvis Presley
DISC FIVE: And When They Ask Us - The Rita Williams Singers
DISC SIX: Lullaby of Broadway - Dick Powell & Wini Shaw
DISC SEVEN: Things We Said Today - The Beatles
DISC EIGHT: Edward Elgar’s Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36: Variation IX "Nimrod" - London Symphony Orchestra

BOOK CHOICE: Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
LUXURY CHOICE: Bed
CASTAWAY'S FAVOURITE: Edward Elgar’s Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36: Variation IX "Nimrod" - London Symphony Orchestra

Producer: Derek Drescher

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1979.


SUN 10:45 Short Works (m0005mjs)
Magpie by Julia Armfield

"Compact, the listing read, well-situated. A rare and lovely find."

An original short story for radio by Julia Armfield about open houses, onward chains and lingering presences.

Read by Caroline Lennon

Julia Armfield lives and works in London. She is a fiction writer and occasional playwright with a Master’s in Victorian Art and Literature from Royal Holloway University. Her work has been published in Lighthouse, Analog Magazine, Neon Magazine and Best British Short Stories 2019.

She was commended in the Moth Short Story Prize 2017, long-listed for the Deborah Rogers Prize 2018 and was the winner of The White Review Short Story Prize 2018. Her debut collection, salt slow, was published by Picador in 2019.

Producer: Mair Bosworth

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2019.


SUN 11:00 Poetry Extra (m001lj2d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


SUN 11:30 Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths by Charlotte Higgins (Omnibus) (b0bd7087)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


SUN 12:40 Inheritance Tracks (m001lj2g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:40 today]


SUN 12:50 Edna O'Brien - The Country Girls Trilogy (Omnibus) (m000838x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:50 today]


SUN 14:00 A Date With Nurse Dugdale (b04v986f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


SUN 14:30 The Navy Lark (m001lj2j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


SUN 15:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b08dxdyn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


SUN 15:45 Short Works (m0005mjs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:45 today]


SUN 16:00 Terry Pratchett (b010tzfb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:00 today]


SUN 16:30 Simon Bovey - Cold Blood (b007jv49)
[Repeat of broadcast at 00:30 today]


SUN 17:00 Poetry Extra (m001lj2d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


SUN 17:30 Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths by Charlotte Higgins (Omnibus) (b0bd7087)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


SUN 18:40 Inheritance Tracks (m001lj2g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:40 today]


SUN 18:50 Edna O'Brien - The Country Girls Trilogy (Omnibus) (m000838x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:50 today]


SUN 20:00 A Date With Nurse Dugdale (b04v986f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


SUN 20:30 The Navy Lark (m001lj2j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


SUN 21:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b08dxdyn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 today]


SUN 21:45 Short Works (m0005mjs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:45 today]


SUN 22:00 Start/Stop (b03b2zb3)
Series 1

Fundraiser

Jack Docherty’s sitcom about love, marriage and despair.

With their marriages in various states of disrepair - a school fundraiser proves unusually challenging for all three couples.

Starring:

Couple 1:

Barney ...... Jack Docherty
Cathy ...... Kerry Godliman

Couple 2:

Evan ...... John Thomson
Fiona ...... Fiona Allen

Couple 3:

David ...... Charlie Higson
Alice ...... Katherine Parkinson

Producer: Steven Canny

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2013.


SUN 22:30 Chain Reaction (b01390bf)
Series 7

John Cooper Clarke talks to Kevin Eldon

The punk poet laureate and the comic actor in the talk tag show, where the guest becomes the interviewer in the next show.

Salford's punk poet laureate John Cooper Clarke grills writer an actor, Kevin Eldon.

For Kevin, it would probably be quicker to list the brilliant programmes he's not been in than those he has - which include Brass Eye, 15 Storeys High, Spaced, Look Around You, Black Books, Big Train, World of Pub, Jam, I'm Alan Partridge and Attention Scum!

He also wrote and starred in BBC Radio 4's Poets' Tree.

Producer: Lianne Coop.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2011.


SUN 23:00 Comedy Club at Machynlleth (m001lj2l)
2023

30/04/2023

Stephen Bailey, Isy Suttie, Esyllt Sears and Rob Deering meet performers from a weekend of comedy, poetry and music in Wales.


SUN 23:15 James Acaster's Findings (b04n611k)
Series 1

1. Wood

James Acaster presents the results of his research into a variety of subjects.

First off, he’s been investigating 'Wood'.

With:

Nathaniel Metcalfe
Bryony Hannah

Producer: Lyndsay Fenner

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2014.


SUN 23:30 Safety Catch (b0184tdb)
Series 2

There Will Be Paint

Simon decides it's about time he and his colleagues prove they understand the true horrors of war by getting out there and actually fighting.

So it is that team Heathcote Sanders go paintballing.

Okay, so it's not quite the same as fighting in an actual war, but you can't expect Simon to take part in one of those - I mean, people actually die in those things.

Will he manage to find the hero inside himself?

Starring Darren Boyd.

Laurence Howarth’s black comedy of modern morality.

Simon is essentially a nice man who also happens to be an arms dealer.

Simon McGrath ....... Darren Boyd
Anna Grieg ....... Joanna Page
Boris Kemal ....... Lewis Macleod
Judith McGrath ....... Sarah Smart
Angela McGrath ....... Brigit Forsyth
Madeleine Turnbull ....... Rachel Atkins
Roger/Dave ....... Philip Fox
Guide ....... Gus Brown

Producer: Dawn Ellis.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2009.

MONDAY 01 MAY 2023

MON 00:00 Poetry Extra (m001lj2d)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Sunday]


MON 00:30 Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths by Charlotte Higgins (Omnibus) (b0bd7087)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Sunday]


MON 01:40 Inheritance Tracks (m001lj2g)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:40 on Sunday]


MON 01:50 Edna O'Brien - The Country Girls Trilogy (Omnibus) (m000838x)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:50 on Sunday]


MON 03:00 A Date With Nurse Dugdale (b04v986f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Sunday]


MON 03:30 The Navy Lark (m001lj2j)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Sunday]


MON 04:00 Desert Island Discs Revisited (b08dxdyn)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:00 on Sunday]


MON 04:45 Short Works (m0005mjs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 10:45 on Sunday]


MON 05:00 Joseph Roth - The Radetzky March (b02117x0)
1. The Trottas

This is the story of the Trottas, a family of Slovenian peasants ennobled when Lieutenant Joseph Trotta saves Emperor Franz Joseph's life at the Battle of Solferino in 1859.

Most of the action, however, is set in the early years of the 20th century and concerns the next two generations of Trottas, a bureaucrat and a soldier: the Baron - stiff, guarded, but secretly loving - and his son, the feckless, disaster-prone Carl Joseph.

Joseph Roth's most celebrated novel is all about the ending of things: love affairs, friendships, individual lives, dynasties, an empire, a world.

Starring Henry Goodman and Paul Ready.

Dramatised in two-parts by Gregory Evans.

Literary critic Harold Blom described Joseph Roth's The Radetzky March as "One of the most readable, poignant and superb novels in 20th century German".

Joseph Roth ...... Henry Goodman
Carl Joseph ...... Paul Ready
Franz Von Trotta ...... Sam Dale
Demant ...... Scott Handy
Barenstein ...... Gunnar Cauthery
Moser ...... Chris Pavlo
Eva ...... Joannah Tincey
Jacques ...... John Rowe
Josef Von Trotta ...... Paul Stonehouse
Onufrij ...... Ben Crowe
Kovacs ...... Robert Blythe
Kindermann ...... Matthew Watson
Sternberg ...... David Seddon
Frau Slama ...... Hannah Wood
Aunt Resi ...... Joanna Brookes

Piano and Trumpet played by Peter Ringrose

Director: Marc Beeby

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2013.


MON 06:00 Crown Papers (m001lj51)
1. Easter Monday, 1933

It’s 1933 and we return to Crown House, the home of Lord and Lady Minster.

As the family gathers for the Easter holiday, they have no idea of the trials and tribulations ahead.

Starring Dinah Sheridan and Geoffrey Whitehead.

A six-part serial written by Peter Ling (Crossroads) and Juliet Ace (The Archers).

Follow up to the eight-part series 'Crown House'.

Alice, Lady Minster .... Dinah Sheridan
William, Lord Minster .... Geoffrey Whitehead
Beatrice, Dowager Countess .... Margaret Rawlings
Richard, Viscount Ebony .... Michael Cochrane
Polly, Viscountess Ebony .... Melinda Walker
The Hon Nicholas Gaunt .... Mark Straker
The Hon Mrs Jenny Gaunt .... Helena Breck
Lady Caroline Gaunt .... Deborah Makepeace
The Hon. Martin Gaunt .... Richard Pearce
Scott Hanson .... Colin McFarlane
Speaker in meeting .... Alan Barker
Female Trespasser .... Susan Sheridan

Director: Tracey Neale

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 1991.


MON 06:30 Raffles (m0001qm0)
Series 2

6. The Gift of the Emperor

Raffles plans the most daring enterprise of his career - the theft of a jewel worth £100,000.

But Inspector Mackenzie is hot on his trail.

Could the intrepid cracksman's luck finally run out..?

Starring Jeremy Clyde.

EW Hornung's Raffles stories about the 'gentleman thief'.

Dramatised by David Buck.

AJ Raffles ...... Jeremy Clyde
Bunny Manders ...... Michael Cochrane
Inspector Mackenzie ...... Henry Stamper
Von Heumann ...... Frederick Jaeger
Miss Werner ...... Zelah Clarke
Captain ...... Alan Dudley
Steward ...... Stephen Rashbrook

Signature tune composed by Jim Parker.

Director: Gordon House

A BBC Radio 4/ BBC World Service production first broadcast in July 1988.


MON 07:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0150mx1)
1. The Censor

Captain Yossarian is in hospital with a pain in his liver and is given the task of censoring letters.

Keen to be grounded after a disastrous mission to Avignon, Yossarian has the unassailable circular logic of Catch 22 explained to him.

"There was only one catch and that was Catch 22."

Joseph Heller’s iconoclastic 1961 novel satirising the insanity of war.

Abridged in ten parts by Robin Brooks.

Read by Stuart Milligan.

Producer: Gaynor Macfarlane

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2011.


MON 07:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m00066xs)
1. The Gulf

Ellen is a stressed-out working-mum who would love her children to eat nutritious snacks and do piano practice whilst adoring their chic mother.

She’s got high hopes of having a perfect life, but the gulf between aspiration and reality is an ever-widening chasm of chaos.

But this is the year that everything will change…for sure.

Gill Sims’ funny, frank and feisty novel, first published in 2017.

Dramatised in five parts by Christine Entwisle

Ellen … Gabriel Quigley
Simon … Stuart McQuarrie
Kathy … Sally Reid

Director: Kirsty Williams

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2019.


MON 07:30 55 and Over (b01p09pb)
3. Offspring?

With new partners on the scene the possibility of progeny suddenly seems more likely. But not everyone is so keen on later-in-life breeding.

Starring Juliet Stevenson and Philip Jackson.

Peter Souter's comedy about love, sex and other foolhardy mistakes made by the modern 50-pluser.

Jane ..... Juliet Stevenson
Ray ..... Philip Jackson
Tony ..... Patrick Brennan
Heather ..... Liza Sadovy
Honey ..... Stephanie Racine
Sam ..... Adam Nagaitis
Dr Miller ..... Robert Blythe
Portia ..... Sarah Thom

Director: Helen Perry.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2012.


MON 08:00 Round the Horne (b00t29v7)
Series 4

Episode 9

Kenneth Horne blasts off boldly in 'Journey to Uranus', a ditty from Rambling Sid Rumpo and 'Bona Books' with Julian and Sandy.

One of BBC Radio’s most influential and groundbreaking series packed full of colourful characters, parodies, memorable catchphrases, and double-entendres.

Starring:

Kenneth Horne
Kenneth Williams
Hugh Paddick
Betty Marsden

Announcer: Douglas Smith

Recorded at the BBC's Paris Studio in Lower Regent Street, London.

Music by Edwin Braden and the Hornblowers and The Fraser Hayes Four.

Round The Horne was born out of the demise of BBC radio comedy Beyond Our Ken. Using the same cast and producer, Barry Took and Marty Feldman wrote the brilliantly inventive - and sometimes outrageous - scripts for the first three series.

Series 4 is written by Barry Took with Brian Cooke & Johnnie Mortimer and Donald Webster.

Music by the Max Harris Group.

Producer: John Simmonds

First broadcast on the BBC Radio 2 in April 1968.


MON 08:30 Dry Slopes (b0075178)
Series 2

Emma

Does the fact that Emma is married, has a son and is moving to Mauritius mean that she's no longer interested in Angus?

Or is she just playing hard to get?

It would be a lot easier to dine out if he could talk to her instead of her answer machine, even though it is a good Listener.

Written by and starring Nick Ball.

Angus ...... Nick Ball
Mum ...... Louisa Rix

With:

Robert Hartley
Wayne Forester
Julie Gibbs

Producer: Gareth Edwards

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 1997.


MON 09:00 Barry Humphries: Gladdies All Over (b05xwsnj)
4 Extra presents another chance to hear Kathy Lette's celebration of Barry Humphries.

An interesting, inspiring, true creative, treasured for his outrageous characters, acerbic wit and sharp tongue. Humphries collaborated with some of the most revered creative minds of the last century.

The man himself is a considered intellectual with a life immersed in music, literature and arts. For his delivery of Dadaist and absurdist humour to millions, biographer Anne Pender described Humphries as not only "the most significant theatrical figure of our time ... [but] the most significant comedian to emerge since Charlie Chaplin"

In this three hour compilation, self-styled 'deranged author' Kathy Lette chats to Barry Humphries about his relationship with Sir Les Patterson, Sandy Stone and Dame Edna Everage.

Kathy also introduces rare performances, interviews and programmes from the BBC archive including:

* Barry and Dame Edna's appearances on Front Row, In Tune, Profile, and Nightwave

* Early performances alongside Spike Milligan

* A discussion of working with Emily Perry, who played Dame Edna's bridesmaid Madge.

* Interviews with Dame Edna shortly after her escape from Mooney Ponds.

There's also a look at the people and things that have influenced Humphries' work and life:

* His passion for literature is discussed in Open Book

* His passion for the decadent world of art, music and satire is delved into in Barry Humphries In Weimar.

Producer: Laura Baron

Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in June 2015.


MON 12:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0150mx1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


MON 12:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m00066xs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:15 today]


MON 12:30 55 and Over (b01p09pb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


MON 13:00 Round the Horne (b00t29v7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


MON 13:30 Dry Slopes (b0075178)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


MON 14:00 We've Been Here Before (b00g1rsp)
Series 2

Episode 4

The topical historical satirical panel show setting out to prove that there's nothing new under, or in, The Sun.

Hosted by Clive Anderson.

Nick Revell and Gyles Brandreth

battle it out against

Helen Atkinson-Wood and John O'Farrell.

Producer: Ed Morrish

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2004.


MON 14:30 Double Income, No Kids Yet (b008yszx)
Series 3

Episode 2

Golf, holidays with friends and having a baby are the three things that Daniel and Lucy have always sworn they'll never do in life.

But when they end up on a golfing holiday with their unbearable friends, they start to realise life doesn't always turn out how you plan it...

Starring David Tennant and Elizabeth Carling.

David Spicer's comedy drama about modern life and parenthood, as seen through the eyes of two 30-something non-parents.

Daniel …. David Tennant
Lucy …. Liz Carling
Katie …. Tracy-Ann Oberman
Andy …. Tony Gardner
Alison …. Joanna Brookes
Peter …. Robert Harley
Linda …. Carla Mendonca
Steve …. Jonathan Aris
Waiter …. Martin Marquez

Producer: Liz Anstee

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2003.


MON 15:00 Joseph Roth - The Radetzky March (b02117x0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:00 today]


MON 16:00 Crown Papers (m001lj51)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


MON 16:30 Raffles (m0001qm0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


MON 17:00 Barry Humphries: Gladdies All Over (b05xwsnj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


MON 20:00 Radiolab (m000zm40)
Series 8

Breath

Radiolab explores life’s rhythmic dance partner, breath, with the help of scientists, musicians and activists.

With Annie McEwen and Matt Kielty.

The boundaries blur between science, philosophy, and the human experience as Jad Abumrad and the Radiolab team investigate a strange world.

From WNYC. First broadcast on public radio in the USA in 2021.


MON 21:00 Mastertapes (b01sv8yf)
Series 1

The Zombies (the A-Side)

Rod Argent, Chris White and Colin Blunstone, embers of The Zombies, talk about their 1968 album 'Odessey and Oracle'.

Series in which leading performers and songwriters talk about the album that made them or changed them.

Recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC's iconic Maida Vale Studios, each edition includes two episodes - the A-side and B-side.

Both editions feature exclusive live performances of songs from the album.

In this one (The A side), John Wilson asks Rod, Chris and Colin to recall how they made the album.

When it was released in 1968, after the band had split up, it was indifferently received. But since it has been described as: "one of the great undiscovered works of the psychedelic era" - Pitchfork; "an album that should grace any record collection... essential" - BBC; and "combining the adventure of Sgt. Pepper with the concision of British Invasion Pop" - Rolling Stone.

Those who have cited the Zombies as influences include everyone from Courtney Love to the Magic Numbers and from the Arctic Monkeys to Paul Weller. 'Odessey And Oracle' (the title was mis-spelt by the designer of the cover) contained only one stereotypically summer-of-love hit ('Time Of The Season') - the darker tones and dramatic third-person feel of much of the album (including the likes of 'Care of Cell 44', 'The Butcher's Tale' and 'A Rose For Emily') makes it sound ahead of its time.

In the B-side of the programme, it's the turn of the audience to ask the questions.

Producer: Paul Kobrak.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2012.


MON 21:30 Dark Corners by Ruth Rendell (b06qhzp0)
1. Pills

Ruth Rendell's final novel is a dark and atmospheric tale of psychological suspense.

Budding crime-writer Carl could do with some extra cash.

Renting out the top part of his house in Maida Vale - newly inherited from his father - will help his cash flow immensely.

And what harm could it do to sell some slimming pills from his late father's stash of 'alternative medicines' to his actress friend Stacey, who's been putting on weight in the wake of a relationship break up..?

Abridged in ten parts by Robin Brooks.

Read by Patricia Hodge.

Producer: Kirsteen Cameron.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2015.


MON 21:45 It's Always Summer Somewhere (m0013pq5)
Episode 1

Felix White's funny and moving memoir about cricket, grief and life in The Maccabees.

In this opening part of his abridged story, Felix recalls falling in love with the sport for the first time - a love that was not immediately reciprocated.

His recollections look at growing up, his mother's multiple sclerosis and slowly replacing an ambition to be a left arm spinner in his school cricket team with the dazzling realities of life in a world renowned band.

Abridged in five parts for radio by Julian Wilkinson

Felix White is a musician, writer and broadcaster best known as a guitarist in The Maccabees. He subsequently co-founded independent record label Yala! and co-presents the BBC’s Tailenders podcast with Greg James.

Producer: Ciaran Bermingham

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2022.


MON 22:00 Just a Minute (m001l951)
Series 91

4. Whodunnit?, Revolving Restaurants and Tog Ratings

Sue Perkins challenges Paul Merton, Felicity Ward, Ivo Graham and Josie Lawrence to speak for 60 seconds without repetition, deviation or hesitation.

The long-running Radio 4 national treasure of a parlour game is back for a new series with subjects this week ranging from Whodunnit? to Revolving Restaurants.

Production co-ordinator: Caroline Barlow
Sound editor: Marc Willcox
Producer: Rajiv Karia

A BBC Studios Production


MON 22:30 The News Quiz (m001l9j1)
Series 111

Episode 1

Andy Zaltzman is back with a brand-new series of The News Quiz.

This week Andy is joined by Ria Lina, Scott Bennett, Isabel Hardman and Simon Evans. They discuss a unicorn infestation, a Labour investigation, and a quick hello to the rest of the world’s nations.

And if you like what you hear, the series will be available to listen to from the 26th May, wherever you listen to podcasts. Or you can hear it right now in the UK – before anywhere else – first on BBC Sounds.

Hosted and written by Andy Zaltzman with additional material from Catherine Brinkworth, Kate Dehnert, and Jade Gebbie.

Producer: Sam Holmes
Executive Producer: James Robinson
Production Co-ordinator: Dan Marchini
Sound Editor: Giles Aspen

A BBC Studios Production


MON 23:00 Comedy Club at Machynlleth (m001lj57)
2023

01/05/2023

Stephen Bailey, Isy Suttie, Esyllt Sears and Rob Deering meet performers from a weekend of comedy, poetry and music in Wales.


MON 23:15 Ken Cheng: Chinese Comedian (m000fq8s)
Series 2

2. Money

Stand-up series exploring British Chinese culture from the BBC New Comedy Award finalist Ken Cheng.

Dave's Joke of the Fringe Winner, Cambridge mathematics dropout and professional poker player, Ken Cheng explores the subject of money.

Ken reveals how he got hooked on poker.

Perhaps he should have been an actuary?

Producer: Adnan Ahmed

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2020.


MON 23:30 Mark Thomas Presents (b0076w5y)
Mort Sahl

A one-off performance by the great American comic and social satirist, Mort Sahl.

This pioneering political comic of the 1950s and 60s proves his grip on events is as sharp and biting as ever.

Series in which Mark Thomas introduces iconic American comedy performers.

Producer: Paul Bajoria

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2005.

TUESDAY 02 MAY 2023

TUE 00:00 Joseph Roth - The Radetzky March (b02117x0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:00 on Monday]


TUE 01:00 Crown Papers (m001lj51)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Monday]


TUE 01:30 Raffles (m0001qm0)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Monday]


TUE 02:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0150mx1)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Monday]


TUE 02:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m00066xs)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:15 on Monday]


TUE 02:30 55 and Over (b01p09pb)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Monday]


TUE 03:00 Round the Horne (b00t29v7)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Monday]


TUE 03:30 Dry Slopes (b0075178)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Monday]


TUE 04:00 We've Been Here Before (b00g1rsp)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:00 on Monday]


TUE 04:30 Double Income, No Kids Yet (b008yszx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 14:30 on Monday]


TUE 05:00 Joseph Roth - The Radetzky March (b02lwc5t)
2. The Outpost

Carl Joseph has been posted to a remote outpost of the Austro-Hungarian Empire near the Russian border.

Here, his life, and the life of the Empire, are about to take a turn for the worse.

Conclusion of Joseph Roth's most celebrated novel about the ending of things: love affairs, friendships, individual lives, dynasties, an empire, a world.

Starring Henry Goodman and Paul Ready.

Dramatised by Gregory Evans.

Joseph Roth ...... Henry Goodman
Carl Joseph ...... Paul Ready
Franz Von Trotta ...... Sam Dale
Chojnicki ...... David Schofield
Zoglauer ...... Gunnar Cauthery
Emperor Franz ...... Joseph John Rowe
Valli ...... Joannah Tincey
Onufrij ...... Ben Crowe
Brodnitzer ...... Chris Pavlo
Wagner ...... David Seddon
Hirschwitz ...... Philippa Stanton
Skowronneck ...... Robert Blythe
Sgt Slama ...... Paul Stonehouse

Piano and Trumpet played by Peter Ringrose

Director: Marc Beeby

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2013.


TUE 06:00 Crown Papers (m001lj60)
2. Spring, 1933

Scandal follows close on the heels of tragedy for the Minster family at Crown House.

There's shock over the murder in the stables - and Caroline’s new relationship sparks concern.

Starring Dinah Sheridan and Geoffrey Whitehead.

Serial written by Peter Ling and Juliet Ace.

Alice, Lady Minster .... Dinah Sheridan
William, Lord Minster .... Geoffrey Whitehead
The Hon. Nicholas Gaunt .... Mark Straker
Mrs Jenny Gaunt .... Helena Breck
Polly, Viscountess Ebony .... Melinda Walker
Lady Caroline Gaunt .... Deborah Makepeace
Paul Weyman .... Philip Sully
Sir Charles Bowyer .... Brett Usher
Lady Gina Bowyer .... Shelley Thompson
Scott Hanson .... Colin McFarlane

Director: Tracey Neale

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1991.


TUE 06:30 Wimsey (b007jw7f)
Five Red Herrings

1. The Body in the Burn

Aristocratic sleuth, Lord Peter Wimsey, goes on a Scottish fishing holiday in Kircudbright, but ends up catching more than trout - when he's called upon to investigate the death of a local artist.

Ian Carmichael stars as Lord Peter Wimsey.

The British gentleman detective features in a number of detective novels and short stories by English crime writer, Dorothy L Sayers.

‘The Five Red Herrings’ was first published in 1931. Adapted for radio in eight episodes by Chris Miller.

Lord Peter Wimsey …. Ian Carmichael
Bunter …. Peter Jones
Murdoch …. Bruce Bennett
Waters …. Bill Wallace
Campbell/Dr Cameron …. Trevor Martin
McAdam …. Alaric Cotter
Sgt Dalziel …. John Graham
Mrs Strachan …. Hazel McBride
Strachan …. Gordon Clyde

Classy and sharp-witted, aristocratic amateur sleuth Lord Peter Bredon Wimsey was born in 1890 and educated at Eton and Oxford, before serving in the military during the First World War.

Ian Carmichael appeared as Lord Peter Wimsey for BBC Radio from 1973 to 1983, in addition to the BBC TV adaptations that were broadcast between 1972 and 1975.

Producer: Simon Brett.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1978.


TUE 07:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0150pj5)
2. Yossarian's Mission

Captain Yossarian is in hospital, keen to be grounded after a disastrous mission.

Colonel Cathcart keeps raising the number of missions to be flown by the men.

Yossarian is determined not to fly any more missions, but keeps coming up against the unassailable logic of Catch 22.

Joseph Heller’s iconoclastic 1961 novel satirising the insanity of war.

Abridged by Robin Brooks.

Read by Stuart Milligan.

Producer: Gaynor Macfarlane

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2011.


TUE 07:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m0006764)
2. Sugar Rush

As tensions build in the house, Ellen starts spending time with the hot new dad at the school gates.

Gill Sims’ funny, frank and feisty novel about a stressed-out working-mum.

Ellen is a white wine loving frantically busy woman who's got high hopes of having a perfect life, but the gulf between aspiration and reality is an ever-widening chasm of chaos. But this is the year that everything will change…for sure.

Dramatised by Christine Entwisle

Ellen … Gabriel Quigley
Simon … Stuart McQuarrie
Louisa … Maryam Hamidi

Director: Kirsty Williams

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2019.


TUE 07:30 North by Northamptonshire (b03mflth)
Series 3

Episode 2

Against her better judgement, Jan has dinner with her ex-husband, and Mary and Jonathan have crossed wires.

Sheila Hancock narrates the bittersweet adventures of the residents of a small town in Northamptonshire.

Written by Katherine Jakeways.

As is well-known: Yorkshiremen wear flat caps and Essex girls wear short skirts; Liverpudlians are scallies and Cockneys are wideboys.

Northamptonians gaze wistfully at these stereotypes and wish for an identity of any kind and a label less ridiculous than Northamptonians. Northamptonshire, let us be clear, is neither north, nor south nor in the Midlands. It floats somewhere between the three eyeing up the distinctiveness of each enviously.

Katherine Jakeways gives Northamptonshire an identity. And she waits, eagerly, for her home-county to thank her. And possibly make her some kind of Mayor.

Narrator ...... Sheila Hancock
Rod ...... Tim Key
Frank ...... Rufus Wright
Mary ...... Penelope Wilton
Jonathan ...... Kevin Eldon
Esther ...... Katherine Jakeways
Keith ...... John Biggins
Norman ...... Geoffrey Palmer
Orson ...... Nathaniel Parker
Jan ...... Felicity Montagu

Producer: Steven Canny

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2013.


TUE 08:00 The Goon Show (b007jpkr)
Series 8

The String Robberies

Ace investigator Neddie Seagoon must solve a crime, and the link to Moriarty's sock.

Groundbreaking, surreal BBC radio comedy written by Spike Milligan.

Starring:

Peter Sellers
Harry Secombe
Spike Milligan
George Chisholm

First billed as Crazy People, ten series of The Goon Show were recorded between 1951 and 1960, but sadly many of the earliest shows weren’t kept in the archive.

With the Ray Ellington Quartet and Max Geldray.

Orchestra conducted by Wally Stott.

Announcer: Wallace Greenslade

Producer: Pat Dixon

First broadcast on the BBC Home Service in January 1958.


TUE 08:30 For Better or for Worse (b00hk2dx)
Series 1

Episode 8

Iris is proper poorly, but not quite as poorly as Wilf thinks she is.

Starring Gorden Kaye and Su Pollard.

Vince Powell’s sitcom about the turbulent relationship of an odd couple.

Iris …. Su Pollard
Bernard …. Gorden Kaye
Wilf …. David Ross
Daisy …. Paula Tilbrook
Doctor …. Julie Higginson
Mr Foley/Mr Brocklebank …. Peter Wheeler

Produced at BBC Manchester by Mike Craig.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in April 1993.


TUE 09:00 The Motion Show (b0075wz8)
Series 2

Episode 4

This House believes the book is dead, and it would like to live in the 60s.

Dr Phil Hammond watches over proceedings in the quirky debating game.

With:

Gyles Brandreth
Hugh Dennis
Jeremy Hardy
Arthur Smith

Producer: Adam Bromley

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2000.


TUE 09:30 Big Town All Stars (m001lj63)
Series 1

If You Scratch My Back

You can join a band for a lot of reasons - fame, sex, money. Yet Kenny sees it as his only chance of giving up teaching geography.

But when an unscrupulous record executive offers him a contract. it turns out it's not really his music she's interested in.

Which leaves Kenny wondering just how much he wants to give up the day job...

Starring Stephen Tompkinson.

With:

Clive Rowe
Meera Syal
Nicola Walker
Adrian Scarborough

Musical Director: David Firman

Producer: Gareth Edwards

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2000.


TUE 10:00 Joseph Roth - The Radetzky March (b02lwc5t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:00 today]


TUE 11:00 Crown Papers (m001lj60)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


TUE 11:30 Wimsey (b007jw7f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


TUE 12:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0150pj5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


TUE 12:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m0006764)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:15 today]


TUE 12:30 North by Northamptonshire (b03mflth)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


TUE 13:00 The Goon Show (b007jpkr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


TUE 13:30 For Better or for Worse (b00hk2dx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


TUE 14:00 The Motion Show (b0075wz8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


TUE 14:30 Big Town All Stars (m001lj63)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


TUE 15:00 Joseph Roth - The Radetzky March (b02lwc5t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:00 today]


TUE 16:00 Crown Papers (m001lj60)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


TUE 16:30 Wimsey (b007jw7f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


TUE 17:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0150pj5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


TUE 17:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m0006764)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:15 today]


TUE 17:30 North by Northamptonshire (b03mflth)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


TUE 18:00 The Goon Show (b007jpkr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


TUE 18:30 For Better or for Worse (b00hk2dx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


TUE 19:00 The Motion Show (b0075wz8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


TUE 19:30 Big Town All Stars (m001lj63)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


TUE 20:00 TED Radio Hour (m0010860)
Series 8

Designing Our Lives

A journey through fascinating ideas based on talks by riveting speakers on the TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) stage.

Manoush Zomorodi explores how we design our lives, from prehistoric cave art to today's social media feeds.

With Debbie Millman.

First broadcast in the USA on National Public Radio in 2020.


TUE 20:50 Inheritance Tracks (m000fqy8)
Emeli Sandé

Singer-songwriter Emeli Sandé chooses Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds and Elgar's Cello Concerto performed by Jacqueline Du Pre.


TUE 21:00 Mastertapes (b01pbq46)
Series 1

The Zombies (the B-Side)

Following on from the A-side of this two-part programme, Rod Argent, Chris White and Colin Blunstone answer questions from an audience about their album, 'Odessey and Oracle'.

With John Wilson at the BBC's iconic Maida Vale Studios in London.

Rod, Chris and Colin perform live versions of some of the songs from the Zombies' album, still held in such high regard.

Producer: Paul Kobrak.

First broadcast on Radio 4 in December 2012.


TUE 21:30 Dark Corners by Ruth Rendell (b06s2j93)
2. Lodger

In Maida Vale, London, Carl struggles to accept his part in the untimely death of his actress friend Stacey.

The slimming pills he sold her are perfectly legal, after all.

Carl also doesn't like the way his new lodger, Dermot, is taking an interest in the case, even going so far as to attend the coroner's inquest.

Ruth Rendell's final novel is a dark and atmospheric tale of psychological suspense.

Abridged by Robin Brooks.

Read by Patricia Hodge.

Producer: Kirsteen Cameron.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2015.


TUE 21:45 It's Always Summer Somewhere (m0013pw3)
Episode 2

A young Felix tries to reconcile passions for cricket and Oasis against a backdrop of his mum's illness.

Felix White's memoir abridged for radio is read by the author.

Felix is a musician, writer and broadcaster best known as guitarist in The Maccabees. He subsequently co-founded independent record label Yala! and co-presents the BBC’s Tailenders podcast with Greg James.

In It's Always Summer Somewhere he recalls growing up, coping with grief and slowly replacing an ambition to be a left arm spinner in his school cricket team with the dazzling realities of life in a world renowned band.

Abridged by Julian Wilkinson.

Producer: Ciaran Bermingham.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2022.


TUE 22:00 Wosson Cornwall (m001l980)
Series 1

It's Rick Stein's Cornwall. Not yours.

Dawn French and Edward Rowe star in a new sketch show with a Cornish flavour. Park the clichés and open your eyes to the reality of this wondrous funny and feral land.

Visit Rick Stein's Cornwall (he's got planning permission for it), meet LJ and Jess, the low energy Gen-Z receptionists at the Royal Hotel, and find out just how important shanty singers are to the Cornish economy.

Recorded in front of an audience at the Acorn Theatre in Penzance, Wosson Cornwall is a sketch show celebrating everything that makes real contemporary Cornwall a culturally rich and funny place - its people, its history and its modern way of life.

This is the first episode in a four part series with an entirely Cornish cast and writing team.

The cast includes Dawn French (Vicar of Dibley / French and Saunders), Edward Rowe (star of Bafta-winning film BAIT and HBO’s Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon), Tamsyn Kelly (ITV2’s Stand Up Sketch Show, BBC New Comedian of the Year Award finalist 2021), Joanna Neary (Channel 4 sitcom Man Down and Gary Oldman film The Darkest Hour), Anna Keirle (award-winning Cornish stand-up, actress and writer) and award-winning actor Ciaran Clarke.

Written by James Henry, Morwenna Banks, Catherine Beazley, Max Davis, Jane Harvey, Tamsyn Kelly, Jo Neary, and Alex Smith.

Script Editor: James Henry

Music: The Jolly Strumpets

Production Co-ordinator: Tamara Shilham

Sound Design: David Thomas

Produced by Simon Nicholls

A Mighty Bunny production for BBC Radio 4


TUE 22:30 The Jason Byrne Show (b01p6pxc)
Series 3

I Won't Eat Bread From a Puddle

Award-winning comedian Jason Byrne focuses on our worst fears.

Members of his audience reveal an eccentric range of phobias include feet; boats in dry docks and being forced to eat white bread out of puddles.

Fast-paced stand-up comedy and sketch show.

With:

Laurence Howarth
Daisy Haggard

Producer: Julia McKenzie

First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in November 2010.


TUE 23:00 Comedy Club at Machynlleth (m001lj65)
2023

02/05/2023

Stephen Bailey, Isy Suttie, Esyllt Sears and Rob Deering meet performers from a weekend of comedy, poetry and music in Wales.


TUE 23:15 Tarot: Soundbleed (m00108c3)
Episode 1

The brainchild of multi-award winning sketch supergroup Tarot, uniting Gein's Family Giftshop and Goose, alongside stand-up and writer Kiri Pritchard-McLean.

In August 2019, Tarot were the 5th best-reviewed act in Edinburgh, the fourth best show of the year according to The List, and the best show of the year according to Chortle. The Guardian called it 'bark-out-loud funny', and The Telegraph called it 'hilarious'.

Throughout their richly soundscaped first series, Soundbleed harnesses the group's inventive writing, rapid gag rate and fine ear for character.

In this first episode, we hear an unrelaxing meditation session, a disaster at a joust and, worst of all, someone gets a guitar out at a party.

Written and performed by:

Adam Drake
Edward Easton
Kath Hughes
Ben Rowse
Kiri Pritchard-McLean.

Producer: Hayley Sterling

A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2021.


TUE 23:30 Elvenquest (b00w7f23)
Series 2

Episode 3

The Quest for the Sword of Asnagar continues.

Vidar and his team are outside the Citadel of Gondola which is being laid siege to by the amassed hordes of the evil Lord Darkness. But when they get searched on their way into the Citadel - there's been a lot of trouble with 'suicide fairies' - Sam comes across a love potion in Vidar's belongings.

Unsurprisingly his mind turns from defending the citadel to making his move on Penthiselea.

But the path of true love is never a steady one and Sam's plans for marital bliss soon fall apart when he discovers time with an amorous Penthiselea isn't all it's cracked up to be, and Vidar drinks the love potion by mistake.

Fantasy-based sitcom set in Lower Earth written by Anil Gupta and Richard Pinto.

Sam …. Stephen Mangan
Lord Darkness …. Alistair McGowan
The High Priestess of Gondola …. Christine Kavanagh
Dean/Kreech …. Kevin Eldon
Vidar …. Darren Boyd
Amis – The Chosen One …. Dave Lamb
Penthiselea …. Sophie Winkleman

Producer: Sam Michell

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2010.

WEDNESDAY 03 MAY 2023

WED 00:00 Joseph Roth - The Radetzky March (b02lwc5t)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:00 on Tuesday]


WED 01:00 Crown Papers (m001lj60)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 on Tuesday]


WED 01:30 Wimsey (b007jw7f)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 on Tuesday]


WED 02:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0150pj5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 on Tuesday]


WED 02:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m0006764)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:15 on Tuesday]


WED 02:30 North by Northamptonshire (b03mflth)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 on Tuesday]


WED 03:00 The Goon Show (b007jpkr)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 on Tuesday]


WED 03:30 For Better or for Worse (b00hk2dx)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 on Tuesday]


WED 04:00 The Motion Show (b0075wz8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 on Tuesday]


WED 04:30 Big Town All Stars (m001lj63)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 on Tuesday]


WED 05:00 Drama (m0006zl8)
Black Water: An American Story

When Kelly, a young political writer, meets a famous US Senator at a party something goes terribly wrong.

A gripping drama with its origins in American political history adapted from the Pulitzer-nominated novel by Joyce Carol Oates.

Young political writer, Kelly, is staying with friends on an island off the coast of Maine for a Fourth of July party. She is surprised and delighted when a famous US Senator arrives and, over the course of an afternoon of drinking, talking and tennis, she captivates him. The two leave in the evening to catch the last ferry, to have dinner and spend the night together. But something goes terribly wrong.

July 18th 2019 marked 50 years since the Chappaquiddick incident.

Kelly ..... Lydia Wilson
The Senator ..... Elliot Cowan
Narrator/Mother ..... Laurel Lefkow
Buffy ..... Kelly Burke
Ray ..... Chris Pavlo
Felicia/Operator ..... Emma Lau
Stacey/Woman at Party ..... Hannah Wood

Adapted by Sarah Wooley

Director: Gaynor Macfarlane

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2019


WED 06:00 Crown Papers (m001ljb2)
3. May, 1935

As the nation celebrates the Silver Jubilee of George V , will Caroline's secret be revealed?

Richard’s murder continues to cause concern.

A six-part serial written by Peter Ling and Juliet Ace.

Alice, Lady Minster .... Dinah Sheridan
William, Lord Minster .... Geoffrey Whitehead
Lady Caroline Gaunt .... Deborah Makepeace
Polly, Viscountess Ebony .... Melinda Walker
The Hon. Mrs Jenny Gaunt .... Helena Breck
Beatrice, Dowager Countess .... Margaret Rawlings
Alexander, Viscount Ebony .... William Wortley
Sir Charles Bowyer .... Brett Usher
Lady Gina Bowyer .... Shelley Thompson
Muriel Beasley .... Joanna Myers
Lady Cloudesley .... Susan Sheridan

Director: Tracey Neale

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1991.


WED 06:30 Wimsey (b00s6492)
Five Red Herrings

2. Disappearances

As Lord Peter Wimsey investigates the mysterious death of unpopular artist, Sandy Campbell - key suspects keep vanishing.

Ian Carmichael stars as Lord Peter Wimsey – the aristocratic amateur sleuth created by Dorothy L Sayers.

Dramatised by Chris Miller.

Lord Peter Wimsey …. Ian Carmichael
Bunter …. Peter Jones
Sir Maxwell Jameson …. Garard Green
Sgt Dalziel …. John Graham
Mrs Faron …. Frances Jeater
Miss Selby …. Nell Brennan
Miss Cochran …. Audrey Muir
Inspector MacPherson …. Don McKillopp
Allcock …. Peter Wickham
Hammond/PC Duncan …. David Strong
Betty …. Heather Bell
Jock Graham …. Christopher Scoular

Producer: Simon Brett.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1978.


WED 07:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0151pyz)
3. Direct Action

Captain Yossarian is in hospital, following a disastrous mission. Colonel Cathcart keeps raising the number of missions to be flown by the men, but Yossarian takes direct action to avoid the next bombing raid.

Joseph Heller’s iconoclastic 1961 novel satirising the insanity of war.

Abridged by Robin Brooks.

Read by Stuart Milligan.

Producer: Gaynor Macfarlane

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2011.


WED 07:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m0006756)
3. Happy Families

Funny, frank and feisty adaptation of Gill Sims’ best-selling novel.

Ellen is a stressed-out working- mum. She’s got high hopes of having a perfect life, but the gulf between her aspiration and her reality is an ever-widening chasm of chaos. But this is the year that everything will change…for sure.

Christmas is coming, and with it, Ellen’s challenging family-in-law.

Ellen … Gabriel Quigley
Simon … Stuart McQuarrie
Louisa … Maryam Hamidi

Director: Kirsty Williams

First broadcast in June 2019.


WED 07:30 Women Talking About Cars (m0001b9c)
Series 3

1. Floella Benjamin

Victoria Coren Mitchell talks to actress, singer, writer, business woman, and politician Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham, known to millions of BBC TV's Play School viewers as Floella Benjamin.

Return of the interview series that uses a famous woman's cars as a vehicle to talk about her life.

Floella tells how her supremely happy childhood in Trinidad turned sour when her parents left her with a cruel foster family – and the joy of being reunited with them when she came to England.

She explains how she learnt to overcome racism with a smile. Plus the freedom that came with passing her driving test - driving around looking for parties in the 1960s – and why when she became a peer, she chose Baroness of Beckenham as her title.

Car descriptions read by Sarah Hadland.

Producer: Gareth Edwards.

A BBC Studios Production, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2018.


WED 08:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jm2y)
Series 3

The Conjurer

The lad takes up conjuring and is booked for Dartmoor Prison - unaware of Sid's plan.

Starring Tony Hancock.

With Bill Kerr, Sidney James, Andree Melly and Kenneth Williams.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.

Theme and incidental music composed by Wally Stott. Recorded by the BBC Revue Orchestra conducted by Harry Rabinowitz.

Producer: Dennis Main Wilson

First broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in February 1956.


WED 08:30 21st Century Blues (m001ljbj)
The Sleepless Chaffinch

It’s 2099. Donald Pleasence plays ‘Chaff’ Chaffinch. He was born at 23.55 on December 31st 1999 and is now approaching his 100th birthday. Chaff is a stylite – a religious zealot who lives on top of a column overlooking the Ethiopian desert – where he reflects his family history, and on the horrors and absurdities of the new millennium.

'Chaff' Chaffinch’ recalls a nephew who underwent a sleep vaporising operation.

Futuristic comedy written by Steve Walker.

Cast:

Chaff Chaffinch …. Donald Pleasance
Ramon …. Lyndam Gregory
Fettis …. Tom Bevan
Bibby …. Malcolm Ward
Sep …. Tim Woodward
July …. Vivienne Rochester
Chairman Hindmarsh …. Barry Gordon
Charlotte's Third Husband …. Gareth Armstrong
Scampi …. Rachel Atkins
Cole / Announcer …. Peter Whitman

Music arranged and performed by Neil Brand.
The theme sung by Peter Kenny and Nicholas Boulton.

Director: Eoin O'Callaghan

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1994.


WED 09:00 It's Not What You Know (b036kbm5)
Series 2

Episode 6

What is Frankie Boyle's worst habit? What is the best piece of advice Diane Morgan's dad ever gave her? Which government department did Alan Johnson most like being in charge of?

All these questions, and more, will be answered in the show hosted by Miles Jupp, where panellists are tested on how well they know their nearest and dearest.

In this case, Alan Johnson picks his son Jamie, Diane Morgan her father Peter and Frankie Boyle his mate Stuart to answer questions about each other.

Producer: Sam Michell.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2013.


WED 09:30 Hobby Bobbies (b04svjxv)
Series 2

Vice

The tiny Haling police force is thrown into confusion when The Guv orders a crackdown on vice in their patch.

Can social media help unveil the mysterious Big Brenda?

Britain's longest serving PCSO (police community support officer) is paired with Britain's laziest.

Starring Richie Webb and Nick Walker.

Written by Dave Lamb.

Geoff...............Richie Webb
Nigel...............Nick Walker
The Guv..........Sinead Keenan
Nina................Pooja Shah
Bernie.............Chris Emmett
Geoff's Dad.....Noddy Holder

Producer: Steve Doherty

A Top Dog production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in December 2014.


WED 10:00 Drama (m0006zl8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:00 today]


WED 11:00 Crown Papers (m001ljb2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


WED 11:30 Wimsey (b00s6492)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


WED 12:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0151pyz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


WED 12:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m0006756)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:15 today]


WED 12:30 Women Talking About Cars (m0001b9c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


WED 13:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jm2y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


WED 13:30 21st Century Blues (m001ljbj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


WED 14:00 It's Not What You Know (b036kbm5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


WED 14:30 Hobby Bobbies (b04svjxv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


WED 15:00 Drama (m0006zl8)
[Repeat of broadcast at 05:00 today]


WED 16:00 Crown Papers (m001ljb2)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:00 today]


WED 16:30 Wimsey (b00s6492)
[Repeat of broadcast at 06:30 today]


WED 17:00 Catch 22 by Joseph Heller (b0151pyz)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:00 today]


WED 17:15 Why Mummy Drinks (m0006756)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:15 today]


WED 17:30 Women Talking About Cars (m0001b9c)
[Repeat of broadcast at 07:30 today]


WED 18:00 Hancock's Half Hour (b007jm2y)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:00 today]


WED 18:30 21st Century Blues (m001ljbj)
[Repeat of broadcast at 08:30 today]


WED 19:00 It's Not What You Know (b036kbm5)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:00 today]


WED 19:30 Hobby Bobbies (b04svjxv)
[Repeat of broadcast at 09:30 today]


WED 20:00 Archive on 4 (b0076css)
The Liverpool Poets

In 1967, three young poets found fame and popularity with the publication of the anthology, The Mersey Sound. Pete McCarthy looks at the work of Roger McGough, Adrian Henri and Brian Patten.

Contributors include artist and critic George Melly, musician Andy Roberts and writer Phil Bowen.

Produced by Bob Dickinson.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2003.


WED 21:00 Short Cuts (b04kbjj1)
Series 6

Rabbit Holes

Josie Long dives down a rabbit hole in this sequence of short documentaries, true stories and radio adventures.

We hear tales of a spam email that alters the course of two people's lives and a mysterious monument made out of shoes at a deserted intersection in rural Indiana - and Miranda July leads listeners into another world with her story of swim coaching an elderly team in a town near no large bodies of water.

Series Producer: Eleanor McDowall

A Falling Tree production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in October 2014.


WED 21:30 Dark Corners by Ruth Rendell (b06s2jhq)
3. Pressure

Ruth Rendell's final novel is a dark and atmospheric tale of psychological suspense.

Debut crime novelist, Carl, struggling to make ends meet, bitterly regrets accepting the first person to apply to rent the top part of his house. Dermot has proven to be a slippery and manipulative tenant, making much of his knowledge that Carl sold slimming pills to a friend who subsequently died.

Indeed, Dermot has now stopped paying rent altogether. Almost broke, Carl reluctantly faces the prospect of having to confess all to Nicola, his girlfriend.

Read by Patricia Hodge.

Abridged by Robin Brooks.

Produced by Kirsteen Cameron.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2015.


WED 21:45 It's Always Summer Somewhere (m0013pvv)
Episode 3 - The Storm

In this third part of Felix White's abridged memoir read by the author, he remembers his tempestuous teenage years and attempts to find escape through cricket as a storm brews for his family.

Felix White is a musician, writer and broadcaster best known as a guitarist in The Maccabees. He subsequently co-founded independent record label Yala! and co-presents the BBC’s Tailenders podcast with Greg James. In It's Always Summer Somewhere he recalls growing up, his mother's illness and slowly replacing an ambition to be a left arm spinner in his school cricket team with the dazzling realities of life in a world renowned band.

Abridger: Julian Wilkinson
Producer: Ciaran Bermingham


WED 22:00 Lemn Sissay's Social Enterprise (m000bnbf)
Episode 1

Every year since 2013, the poet, broadcaster and author Lemn Sissay has arranged a Christmas dinner for people aged 18-25 who have left the care system and have no one with whom to have Christmas dinner. No one to give presents or receive them. No-one on the other end of the cracker.

This is not a charity. It isn't even an organisation. It's a project Lemn undertook because he understands how it feels - at 18 he was released from a children's home and given an empty flat in Wigan, with no one in the world who had known him for longer than a year.

Lemn Sissay’s Social Enterprise is a four-part series for BBC Radio 4, considering what these dinners have taught him about charity, social enterprise, and people, through stand-up, interview and poetry.

This week, he explores the idea of shelter in all its forms - with the help of Polly Neate, the Chief Executive of the charity Shelter, and comedy writer Sarah Morgan.

Written and performed by Lemn Sissay
Guest: Polly Neate
Guest: Sarah Morgan

Producer: Ed Morrish
A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4


WED 22:30 Pick Ups (b008p50r)
Series 1

Episode 2

A crucial darts match in the Manchester cab office, while Rebel offers marital advice.

Comedy set in in a run down taxi office in Manchester.

Written by Ian Kershaw.

Lind ... Sally Lindsay
Mike ... John Thomson
Dave ... Philip Rowson
Alan /Rebel ... Ash Tandon
Drunk ... Mark Smith
With Claire Coleman

Producer: Paul Hardy

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2008.


WED 23:00 Comedy Club at Machynlleth (m001ljbx)
2023

03/05/2023

Stephen Bailey, Isy Suttie, Esyllt Sears and Rob Deering meet performers from a weekend of comedy, poetry and music in Wales.


WED 23:15 Heidi Regan: No Worries (m000xdqz)
Episode 1

As someone who tends to worry in 'normal' times, the pandemic has of course offered some exciting new areas of exploration for the anxious mind. Having a partner who is a GP has both helped and not helped Heidi with that: worrying about her being safe, but also, yay, on tap medical advice! That said, examining rashes of a loved one over dinner isn’t really the romance her partner signed up for.

As Heidi and her partner ponder some of the big questions in life, Heidi's brain resorts, as it always does, to distracting them (and the audience) with increasingly silly jokes as she makes an argument for the pros and cons of joking your way through life.

In this episode she ponders whether repressing her worries is better than sharing them.

Written and performed by Heidi Regan.

With thanks to Nick Elleray

Produced by Julia McKenzie

A BBC Studios Production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in June 2021.


WED 23:30 Kieran Hodgson's Earworms (b091w6kw)
Series 1

Schnittke

Can self-described 'music educator and inspiration' Ralph Lewis (the man behind ''Tchaikovsky Abs Blast' or 'Holst for the Homeless') persuade self-confessed 'enemy of culture' Paul, that Schnittke's worth a listen?

Critically-acclaimed comedian Kieran Hodgson -as Ralph Lewis - presents comedy intros to the great composers.

Written and starring Kieran Hodgson.

With Colin Hoult and Georgie Glen.

Producer: Sam Ward

A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2017.


WED 23:45 Jelly Mountain (b00ftk74)
Episode 5

Musings on a footkerchief and a forest full of girls

Songs and stories with Craig Murray-Orr, Dylan Edwards, Beverley Crew and Alison O'Kill.

Producer: Neil Cargill

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 1996.