SHAKESPEARE

Synopsis

First of the second series of the fortnightly theatrical review magazine commissioned for radio by the BBC Light Programme. Includes recordings of extracts from The English Arts Theatre company’s performance of Hamlet and Othello. The programme also includes a discussion on "Radio and Stage Acting: Are They Different?" with Val Gielgud, Gladys Young and Alec Guinness. Bruce Belfrage introduces the programme.

Series

Theatre Programme (Second Series)

Language

English

Country

Great Britain

Medium

Radio

Transmission details

13 Nov 1946 at 21:00 (Channel: BBC Light Programme)

Duration

60 mins

Availability

No copy extant

Credits

Producer

Ayton Whitaker

Contributor

Alec Guinness; Bruce Belfrage; Gladys Young; Val Gielgud

Cast

Alec Clunes	Hamlet
Jack Hawkins	Claudius
Fay Compton	Gertrude
Elizabeth Kentish	Ophelia

Additional Details

Theatre company

English Arts Theatre

Production type

Documentary/Educational/News

Plays

Hamlet; Othello

Subjects

Drama

Keywords

acting techniques; radio drama; Shakespeare, William (1564-1616)

Notes

General

Radio Times comments surrounding the launch of this theatrical programme suggest that the series was meant to deal with as many matters of theatrical interest as possible. The slot usually encompassed a brief performance by a star, short discussions on current theatrical affairs or methods of production, occasional interviews with foreign actors and personal glimpses of theatrical staff not usually credited, such as stage-doorkeepers, understudies and carpenters. The programme had its own opening and closing tune, taken from Purcell’s "Ayres for the Theatre".

Reviews

General notes regarding the original launch of this programme can be found in Radio Times, cf. issues dated 8 and 22 March 1946, pp.3 and 5 respectively.

Production Company

Name

BBC

Notes

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)