Dresser, The

Synopsis: Radio adaptation of a play written by Ronald Harwood which is based on the touring career of Donald Wolfit, for whom Harwood was the dresser. An actor-manager of the old school takes a Shakespearean company on tour in England during the darkest days of the Second World War. Scenes of King Lear are performed. Adapted and directed by David Blount. With Freddies Jones as Sir and Michael Palin as Norman. Roy Sinclair plays the percussion.
Series: Monday Play, The
Language: English
Country: Great Britain
Medium: Radio
Recording date: 1 Feb 1993
Transmission details: 29 Mar 1993 at 19:45 (Channel: BBC Radio 4)

Director

David Blount

Writer

Ronald Harwood

Adaptor for Radio

David Blount

Cast

Production type: Television and Radio Drama
Plays: King Lear
Subjects: Drama
Keywords: Shakespeare, William (1564-1616); Wolfit, Donald; Travelling players

General: Michael Palin’s radio drama debut.
History: Harwood’s play was made into an award-winning feature film in 1983 (directed by Peter Yates). See separate entry.

SHAKESPEARE