Gregor Samsa wakes up one morning to find he has been transformed into a gigantic insect. This extraordinary tale of imagination was written by Kafka against the backdrop of increasing turmoil in central Europe and remains not just an affecting tale but a disturbing allegory. It is read here, in a new translation, by master story teller Martin Jarvis.

Metamorphosis

This delightful Victorian comic diary is a classic of English Humour which has never been out of print since its first publication in 1892. City clerk Charles Pooter asks: ‘Why should I not publish my diary… because I do not happen to be a “somebody”?’ He proceeds to catalogue all the social clangers he makes unwittingly as he bumbles his way through life, yet a sympathy develops for Pooter in the face of it all. The Diary of a Nobody is an ideal text for the talents of Martin Jarvis.

The Diary of a Nobody

Eccentric, absent-minded inventor Professor Branestawm embarks on a series of adventures with his friend Colonel Dedshott. Various machines are invented: a time travel-machine, a device to capture and tie up burglars, and a spring-cleaning machine. Inevitably, something goes wrong and Professor Branestawm is again in a pickle, exasperating his housekeeper Mrs Flittersnoop and delighting us.

The Incredible Adventures of Professor Branestawm

A tender love story, a serpentine villainess, a glittering setting in London society and a shower of Wildean witticisms are only a few of the reasons this play has enjoyed hugely successful revivals in London and New York. This 1895 drama also seems eerily prescient, as it explores the plight of a promising young politician, desperate to hide a secret in his past. With empathy and wit, Wilde explores the pitfalls of holding public figures to higher standards than the rest of us. Includes an interview with Michael Hackett, the Chair of the Department of Theater at the University of California, Los Angeles. In addition to his extensive directorial work for L.A. Theatre Works - which includes plays by Oscar Wilde, Tennessee Williams, and Noel Coward - Michael has directed for the Royal Opera, Covent Garden; the Royal Theatre at the Hague; and the Los Angeles Opera. An L.A. Theatre Works full-cast performance featuring: Rosalind Ayres as Lady Gertrude Chiltern Jacqueline Bisset as Mrs. Cheveley Paul Gutrecht as Vicomte de Nanjac Martin Jarvis as Sir Robert Chiltern Robert Machray as Phipps Miriam Margolyes as Lady Markby Alfred Molina as Lord Goring Jim Norton as Lord Caversham Yeardley Smith as Mabel Chiltern Directed by Michael Hackett.

An Ideal Husband

Dramatisations of Louisa May Alcott’s evergreen classic and its sequel, plus her Gothic tour de force about an orphan girl and her controlling guardian Born in 1832 in Pennsylvania, Louisa May Alcott was best known for Little Women, her phenomenal bestseller loosely based on her childhood experiences with her own sisters. Adapted numerous times for stage and screen, it is dramatised here alongside her follow-up novel Good Wives and the thrilling sensation story A Marble Woman. Little Women – With their father away fighting in the American Civil War, the four March sisters and their mother are facing a frugal Christmas in their New England home. But their close bond and determination to make the best of things enables them to find happiness despite their poverty. As they forge their path in the adult world, Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy will encounter adventure, challenges, joys and disappointments – and while marriage and motherhood may beckon, their most enduring love is always for each other. Natasha J Barnes, Julianna Jennings, Bryony Hannah and Samantha Dakin star in this iconic coming-of-age tale. Good Wives– Now young women, the March girls meet with triumph and tragedy in this classic sequel to Little Women. Following Meg’s wedding, Jo finds success with her writing and Amy heads to Europe – but Beth’s health is failing, and her spirits are low. As the family face their greatest sorrow together and look to the future, Jo writes the story of their life – and finds true love at last… Starring Jemma Redgrave, Buffy Davis, Anne Marie Zola, Kara Zediker and Gayle Hunnicutt. A Marble Woman – Recently orphaned, Cecilia Stein turns up at the door of genius sculptor Bazil Yorke. Her dying mother had told her that Yorke was an old friend, and to trust his kindness. But the reclusive bachelor has neither forgiven nor forgotten his rejection by Cecilia’s mother, and decides to revenge himself by punishing his new ward. Insisting that she must submit her life to art and restrain all her emotions, he strives to turn her into his own creation – but can he control his own heart? Sexual repression, opium addiction and love collide in this dark Gothic tale, starring Bill Paterson and Amanda Root. First published 1865 (A Marble Woman), 1868 (Little Women), 1869 (Good Wives) Cast and credits Little Women Cast: Natasha J Barnes, Julianna Jennings, Bryony Hannah, Samantha Dakin, Tara Ward, John Bowler, Alex Lanipekun, Finlay Robertson, Joanna Monro, Alison Belbin, Karen Bartke, Natasha Cowley, Keziah Joseph, Luke MacGregor, Catriona McFarlane, Gunnar Cauthery Dramatised by Rhiannon Tise Directed by Tracey Neale First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 16-27 January 2017 Good Wives Cast: Gayle Hunnicutt, Jemma Redgrave, Buffy Davis, Anne Marie Zola, Kara Zediker, Marcus D'Amico, Don Fellows, John Guerrasio, Margaret Robertson, Alibe Parsons, Adam Henderson, Helen Horton, Lorelei King, David Holt, Tamsin Hollo, Faith Brook, Jill Graham, Toni G Barry, Melanie Hudson, Jonathan Tafler, Martin Jarvis, John Church, Andrew Wincott Dramatised by Marcy Kahan Directed by Marilyn Imrie First broadcast Radio 4, 11 February-18 March 1993 A Marble Woman Cast: Bill Paterson, Amanda Root, John McArdle, Charles De'Ath, Sarah Parkes, Geoffrey Banks, Becky Simpson, Robert Pollard Dramatised by Lavinia Murray Produced by Pauline Harris First broadcast Radio 4, 8 April 2000 © 2025 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2025 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Little Women, Good Wives & A Marble Woman

In the best known of P.G. Wodehouse's Bertie and Jeeves series, Bertie's aunt pressures him to steal a silver creamer, and he nearly gets lynched, arrested and engaged by mistake. As always, Jeeves is on hand with a last-minute brainstorm to set everything straight. Adapted by Mark Richard. A City Lit Theatre Company co-production. An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance featuring: Rosalind Ayres as Aunt Dahlia Patrice Egleston as Madeline Bassett Martin Jarvis as Jeeves/Roderick Spode Kelly Nespor as Stephanie 'Stiffy' Byng Kenneth J. Northcott as Sir Watkyn Bassett Henry M. Odum as Shopkeeper/Butterfield/Constable Eustace Oates Mark Richard as Bertie Wooster Nicolas Sandys as Harold 'Stinker' Pinker Thomas M. Shea as Gussie Fink-Nottle Directed by Mark Richard. Recorded before a live audience at the DoubleTree Guest Suites, Chicago in May of 1997.

The Code of the Woosters

The blowhards, the know-it-alls, the scrupulous and the impecunious are all targets for Shaw's incisive wit in his classic satire of the medical profession. A well-respected physician is forced to choose whom he shall save: a bumbling friend or the ne'er-do-well husband of the woman he loves. An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance featuring: Jane Carr as Emmy/Minnie Tinwell Gregory Cooke as Redpenny/Newspaper Man Kenneth Danziger as Dr. Blinkensop/Mr. Danby Roy Dotrice as Sir Patrick Cullen Martin Jarvis as Sir Colenso Ridgeon Jennifer Dundas as Jennifer Dubedat Simon Templeman as Cutler Walpole Douglas Weston as Louis Dubedat Paxton Whitehead as Sir Ralph Bonington Includes a conversation with Dr. Neil Wenger, the Director of the Healthcare Ethics Center at the University of California-Los Angeles. Directed by Rosalind Ayres. Recorded before a live audience at the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles in December of 1998. The Doctor's Dilemma is part of L.A. Theatre Works' Relativity Series featuring science-themed plays. Major funding for the Relativity Series is provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to enhance public understanding of science and technology in the modern world.

The Doctor's Dilemma

First published in 1908, The Wind in the Willows belongs to a golden age of children’s book. These charming tales of the riverbank, describing the adventures of Ratty, Mole, Badger and their irrepressible but conceited friend, Toad of Toad Hall, have become classics loved as much, perhaps, by adults as by children.

Svenska Ljud Classica

The Wind in the Willows

Here is one of the greatest English comic novels read by incontrovertible king of English comic audiobook readers – Martin Jarvis. Three men, worried about their health and in search of different experiences, set off ‘up the river’ in a boat. Jerome’s delightful novel, dating from 1900, paints a vivid picture of innocent fun.

Timeless Classics

Three Men in a Boat

She heard another movement pass behind her turned shoulder, a whisper of sound, yet so chilling that she felt all power of movement drained from her legs. He was here, very close in the blackness, toying with her, cruel as a cat. He had smelt her out. Now he crouched over her ready to strike and she could only wait. A mission of duty. A quest for love. Dr Robyn Ballantyne has always worked hard for what she wants. Coming home to Africa after twenty years, she fears there are only three men who may still stand in her way: THE BROTHER Zouga is the only family she's known for much of her life. Yet she and the celebrated soldier will never quite see eye to eye... THE CAPTAIN Codrington, ambitious British naval officer, wants to give her a perfect life. Could she ever be tamed enough to fit his idea of perfection? THE TRADER Mungo St James, the notorious American merchant, repels her with his slave trading. But Robyn cannot forget what once passed between them. As her adventures begin, Robyn must make decisions that will shape the future for all of them... The first book in the epic Ballantyne series

Ballantyne Series

A Falcon Flies

Charles Dickens' much loved novel, brilliantly read by Martin Jarvis and featuring an immersive musical soundtrack to enhance your audiobook listening experience! MARTIN CHUZZLEWIT is beloved as Dickens' last great Picaresque novel, and is noted as the turning point between his early comic novels and the later sombre social critiques. Through the far-ranging escapades of young Martin, grandson of a rich but misanthropic old man, Dickens weaves a spellbinding story of adventure, intrigue and, eventually, redemption. Booktrack is an immersive format that pairs traditional audiobook narration and complementary music. The tempo and rhythm of the score are in perfect harmony with the action and characters throughout the audiobook. Gently playing in the background, the music never overpowers or distracts from the narration so that listeners can enjoy every minute. When you purchase this Booktrack edition, you receive the exact narration as the traditional audiobook available, with the addition of music throughout. (P)1996 Hodder & Stoughton Audiobooks and (P)2018 Booktrack Holding Ltd (background soundtrack only)

Martin Chuzzlewit

Elizabeth I of England is threatened by the survival of her Catholic cousin, Mary Stuart. Wrestling with her own conscience, the Queen agonizes over Mary's fate, amidst fears for her own life. Translated by Peter Oswald. An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance featuring: Sheelagh Cullen as Hanna Kennedy, Mary's Nurse Kenneth Danziger as Amias Paulet, Knight and Guardian of Mary Seamus Dever as Mortimer, Paulet's Nephew Jill Gascoine as Elizabeth, Queen of England Matt Gaydos as O'Kelly, Page and Officer of the Guard Martin Jarvis as Lord Burleigh, Lord High Treasurer Alex Kingston as Mary Stuart, Queen of Scotland Christopher Neame as William Davison, Count Bellievre Alan Shearman as Melvil, Count Aubespine W. Morgan Sheppard as George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury Simon Templeman as Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester Includes an interview with Jane Dunn, author of Elizabeth & Mary: Cousins, Rivals, Queens. Directed by Rosalind Ayres. Recorded before a live audience at the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles in December of 2006. Court intrigue has never been more gripping than in Friedrich von Schiller's "acute study in the art of double-dealing politics." - The New York Times

Mary Stuart

Initially banned in France by King Louis XIV, Molière's celebrated social satire Tartuffe exposes hypocrisy in the Catholic Church. When a pious fraud worms his way into a wealthy family and manipulates the patriarch into giving up his fortune, it's up to his family to expose the truth before they end up in the poorhouse! Translated by Richard Wilbur. An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance starring: Brian Bedford as Tartuffe JB Blanc as M. Loyal and Officer Daniel Blinkoff as Damis Gia Carides as Dorine Jane Carr as Mme. Pernelle John de Lancie as Cleante Martin Jarvis as Orgon Alex Kingston as Elmire Matthew Rhys as Valere Sarah Zimmerman as Mariane Directed by Dakin Matthews. Recordedbefore a live audience at The Invisible Studios, West Hollywood in June of 2010. Lead funding for Tartuffe was made possible with support from the Sidney E. Frank Foundation.

Tartuffe

Clarissa discovers she is able to fly on the flying trapeze, despite her earlier fears. Majesty the Magician loses, then recovers, his adored Bunnikins, while Roberto the Robot, through the friendship of a little girl, learns to smile and talk although his face is made of steel. Read by actor Martin Jarvis, narrator of the famous for the "Just William" audiobooks, this is the first in a series of audiobooks specially designed for children of 5 – 7 years old to listen to at any time. Every rhythmic verse helps youngster learn about courage, individuality, and self-confidence. All the stories have a core message of Love and Understanding, as well as dealing with themes such as overcoming fears and self-doubt. The Companion Printed books are available from www.villagefolkbooks.com or all good bookshops.

Clarissa the Clown and the Village Folk

Craig got no further, for Tungata's anger turned to red fury. He was shaking with it, it clouded his gaze and knotted the muscles at the points of his heavy lantern jaw. "Be silent," he hissed. "You meddle in matters that you do not understand, and that do not concern you. Leave this land before they overwhelm you." His family's past. His country's future. Bestselling author Craig Mellow is tired of fame, and wants only to return to his family's old home in Zimbabwe. Although it's now derelict, Craig wants to rebuild and turn Rholands into a functioning ranch and tourist safari, but finds his way unexpectedly blocked by his old friend, now government minister, Tungata Zebiwe. Working with acclaimed photographer Sally-Anne Jay, Craig is able to uncover Tungata's corruption and continue with his planned restoration. However, there is new fighting on the horizon that may threaten not only Rholands, but the lives of all who live there. In their desperate attempts to escape, Craig and Sally-Anne will learn that no one is truly who they say... The fourth book in the epic Ballantyne series

The Leopard Hunts in Darkness

The lion rose lightly into the air, and settled like a huge yellow bird on the horse's back, crushing Jan Cheroot beneath his massive, blood-streaked body. At that instant, horse and rider and lion seemed to disappear into the very earth, and there was only a swirling column of dust to mark where they had been. A new generation. An age-old struggle. Ralph Ballantyne is following in his father Zouga's footsteps, as a hunter, gold prospector and promoter of British colonialism in Africa. But the tribes that they - and men like them - have previously exploited or butchered in the name of civilisation are rising up, and will no longer submit quietly to the greed and mindless destruction of the trespassers. Over a hundred years later, Ralph's descendants are still in Africa, in the newly named Zimbabwe, and the battles have not yet ended. In fact, for Craig Mellow, the last Ballantyne, there is still a terrible price to pay for the actions of his ancestors... The third book in the epic Ballantyne series

The Angels Weep

Zouga was left alone, as alone in spirit as he had ever been in any of his wanderings across the vast African continent. He had spent almost the last penny he owned on these few square feet of yellow earth at the bottom of this hot and dusty pit. He had no men to help him work it, no experience, no capital. A tribal battle. An Empire's war. Zouga Ballantyne has in his blood a fanatic's need to find diamonds, one that will take him to Southern Africa's most punishing places. Losing his wife to one of the many sicknesses that haunt the diamond mine camp, Zouga and his sons must find another way through the country, helping to build the British Empire, and developing their own form of civilisation in the face of tribal opposition. But the Ballantyne family success comes at a price -the sacrifice of the local Matabele tribe, who have tried to live alongside the colonists, but are slowly losing everything. In the face of exploitation, violence and greed, who will triumph in the land of ruthless men? The second book in the epic Ballantyne series

Men of Men

‘Dig Two Graves’ was inspired by the extraordinary courage of Lieutenant Terence Edward Waters, GC (posthumous), the West Yorkshire Regiment, during the Korean War. Badly injured and a PoW, Waters ordered his men to join the N Korean ‘Peace Fighters’ in return for decent treatment but, refusing to do so himself, died of malnutrition, hypothermia and gangrene. The fictional story, relocated to the Vietnam war, opens many years after the Lieutenant’s death, with the publication of a photograph of the PoW Camp Commandant responsible, now US citizen and successful businessman Donald Quang. Hershey is commissioned by a fellow Vietnam veteran to carry out a ‘routine check’ into Quang’s background, ostensibly for business reasons. Complications multiply quickly as it emerges that the Lieutenant’s senior NCO who survived the camp is already on his way to the US hell-bent on revenge and that both the CIA and the KGB have an interest in Quang.

'Dig Two Graves'

In Terence Rattigan's classic drama, an aging schoolmaster at an English secondary school faces the harsh judgments of his students, his fellow teachers, and his vicious and spiteful wife. But can a lone act of kindness from a sympathetic student change his heart? An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance featuring: Steven Brand as Frank Hunter Martin Jarvis as Andrew Crocker-Harris Ian Ogilvy as The Headmaster Darren Richardson as Peter Gilbert Devon Sorvari as Mrs. Gilbert Kate Steele as Millie Crocker-Harris Daniel Stewart as John Taplow Original music composed by Louis Febre. Includes an interview with Michael Darlow, the author of Terence Rattigan: The Man and His Work. Directed by Peter Levin. Recorded in Los Angeles before a live audience at The James Bridges Theater, UCLA in June of 2012.

NHB Modern Plays

The Browning Version

Before Guglielmo Marconi came along, there was no practical way to transmit telegraphic messages without wires. But when he harnessed the power of radio waves to send signals over long distances, what had once seemed impossible became a WW-changing reality. In this original L.A. Theatre Works commission, we'll get a firsthand, intimate view of the precocious Italian inventor, and what he had to overcome in his quest to revolutionize the way we communicate. Can You Hear Me is available as part of L.A. Theatre Works' Relativity Series of science-themed plays, sponsored by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. Recorded at The Invisible Studios, West Hollywood in April, 2024. Directed by Rosalind Ayres Producing Director: Susan Albert Loewenberg An L.A. Theatre Works full-cast recording, starring: Lucy DeVito as Degna Marconi Martin Jarvis as Mr. Preece, King Edward, Captain Smith Kurt Kanazawa as Alfonso Marconi, George Parkin Henri Lubatti as Giuseppe Marconi, Teddy Roosevelt Moira Quirk as Annie Jameson Darren Richardson as George Kemp, Jack Phillips André Sogliuzzo as Guglielmo Marconi and Older Marconi Mark Jude Sullivan as Luigi Solari, Harold Bride, Pagent Senior Producer: Anna Lyse Erikson Prepared for Audio by Mark Holden Recorded and edited by Neil Wogenson Designed by Neil Wogenson, Charles Carroll and Mark Holden, and mixed by Charles Carroll for The Invisible Studios, West Hollywood. Technical Advisor and Morse Code Performer: Mark Holden. Senior Radio Producer: Ronn Lipkin Foley Artist: Stacey Martinez Antique Morse Code and radio equipment provided by Ken Holden

Can You Hear Me

A comprehensive selection of August Strindberg’s finest works, featuring an all-star cast and original music Hailed by Arthur Miller as ‘the mad inventor of modern theatre’, Johan August Strindberg was a Swedish playwright, poet and novelist whose groundbreaking works mingled naturalism and psychology and paved the way for Expressionist drama. A prolific writer – penning over 60 plays, 19 novels and nine autobiographies – his turbulent life was marked by emotional conflict. This wide-ranging collection brings together 13 of his most important dramas and a semi-autobiographical ‘occult diary’, enhanced through stunning soundscapes and music composed by Strindberg himself. First up is his debut play, the 1872 historical drama Master Olof. Influenced by Ibsen’s Brand, it centres around a revolutionary 16th-century priest’s defiance of the Catholic Church and the monarchy. It is followed by The Father, whose focus is paternity and the battle for power between a husband and wife. Sexuality and social class are scrutinised in a retelling of Strindberg’s classic play Miss Julie, placed in a Scottish context, while in Creditors, a Swedish seaside resort is the setting for marriage-wrecking revenge. Also set by the sea, Strindberg’s black comedy of manners Playing with Fire explores a love triangle between a young couple and their close friend. Begun in 1898 while Strindberg was recovering from a breakdown, To Damascus is a symbolic synthesis of his marital, religious and existential struggles. Erik XIV portrays the last years of the titular King of Sweden’s reign, as the increasingly unstable ruler becomes embroiled in a bitter feud with the nobility. Next is Ingmar Bergman’s version of A Dream Play, Strindberg’s oneiric fantasy exploring human suffering and life’s illusions. Easter tells the redemptive tale of a family fearing ruin who instead find hope, forgiveness and mercy. Performed for the first time in English, The Virgin Bride centres on a wedding that could reconcile two rival families – but can the bride prove her chastity by wearing a bridal crown? Following their father’s death, a brother and sister discover disturbing truths about their mother in The Pelican, and in The Ghost Sonata, adultery, murder and deceit are laid bare in the house of the living dead… Our final piece, Strindberg’s dark prose poem Inferno, recounts his experiments in alchemy and black magic, his sojourn in hell and his quest for faith and love. It is narrated by Alan Badel. These outstanding dramas feature star casts including Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Andrew Garfield, Rory Kinnear, Maurice Denham, Martin Jarvis, Trevor Howard, Peggy Ashcroft, Stephen Murray, Judy Bennett, Frank Finlay, Ian Richardson, Janet McTeer and Dorothy Tutin. First published 1872 (Master Olof), 1887 (The Father), 1888 (Miss Julie), 1889 (Creditors), 1892 (Playing with Fire), 1898-1904 (To Damascus), 1899 (Erik XIV), 1901 (A Dream Play, Easter, The Virgin Bride), 1907 (The Pelican), 1908 (The Ghost Sonata), 1912 (Inferno) First broadcast on BBC Radio, 1968-2005 © 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

The August Strindberg BBC Radio Collection

An epic tale of power, love, passion and oil – from the minds of comedy greats Ian Hislop and Nick Newman Gush is the stunning saga of the bitter rivals Foxwell Cravate and Max Pomeroy whose destinies are tragically intertwined. Set in Durban at the Transworld Oil Conference and packed with the flair, fun and parody of the best TV mini-series of the 90s, this is comedy that will have you laughing out loud. The aristocratic Foxwell Cravate, played by radio legend Martin Jarvis, and American tycoon Max Pomeroy, played by Mac McDonald, were once the closest of friends. However, the two have become such bitter rivals their actions could threaten the human race. What could possibly have destroyed their friendship and, potentially, the world? The story begins when Prince Saudi hopes that his oil deal will bring peace to the civilised world. What could possibly go wrong? Well, Cravate and Pomeroy's bitter rivalry could mess things up for a start. Beginning with a vow to end all vows, the Oil Conference doesn’t go quite to plan and Foxwell and Max face execution by ritual disembowelment. Will Lady Arabella's wiles coax Prince Saudi into making a last-minute reprieve? There is a glimmer of hope when a compromising photo of Prince Saudi and Lady Arabella materialises. However, it's in the hands of the infamous Charles de Vere of the Foreign Office… Written by long time collaborators Ian Hislop (Have I Got New For You, Spitting Image) and Nick Newman (Sunday Times, Punch and The Spectator cartoonist), this pitch perfect parody of the works of Jeffrey Archer, is a must listen. Starring Martin Jarvis, alongside Mac McDonald, Felicity Montagu, Caroline Quentin, Jonathan Coy and Julian Dutton. Please note: This show contains humour of the time. Cast and credits Written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman Produced by Colin Swash Foxwell Cravate - Martin Jarvis Max Pomeroy - Mac McDonald Arabella Derbyshire - Felicity Montagu Iolanthe Diamond - Caroline Quentin Charles Ambrose Fortescue de Vere - Jonathan Coy Prince Saudi - Julian Dutton With Toby Longworth, Mandy Knight, Steve Steen and John Whitehall First Broadcast BBC Radio 4, 22 Nov - 27 Dec 1994 ©2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Gush

Four of L. P. Hartley's finest novels adapted for BBC radio, plus bonus short stories An acclaimed novelist, short story writer and critic, Leslie Poles Hartley is best known for his 1953 novel The Go-Between, which won the W. H. Heinemann Award and was adapted as a BAFTA-winning film starring Julie Christie and Alan Bates. Included here is a radio dramatisation of that classic tale, alongside adaptations of three further novels and five short stories. The Go-Between - 1901, Norfolk. Twelve-year-old Leo Colston is spending the long, hot summer with his school friend Marcus at his family estate, Brandham Hall. Drawn into an adult world of deception and forbidden desire, he sets in motion a tragedy that will haunt him forever. This moving tale of lost innocence stars Clive Swift, Joe Brothwell, Lisa Kay and Robert Glenister. The Collections - Ambrose and Edwina possess exquisite collections of objets d'art, but need to dispose of them; Barbara owns a stately home, but has had to sell off the contents. Joining forces seems like the ideal solution - until a thief comes along... Starring Richard Pearson, Siân Phillips and Eva Stuart. The Brickfield - Dictating his memoir to his secretary, elderly novelist Richard Mardick finds himself confiding a long-held secret from his youth: his adolescent romance with the beautiful Lucy, and its tragic conclusion... Martin Jarvis and Denys Blakelock star in this tender love story from the past, told against the bright awareness of the present. The Betrayal - In this sequel to The Brickfield, Richard Mardick is forced once more to recall the long-ago days of his boyhood, as he reveals to his biographer-to-be how Lucy's death has blighted his life and disrupted his peace of mind. Starring Martin Jarvis and Denys Blakelock, with Irene Sutcliffe and Gudrun Ure. Short Stories by LP Hartley - Robert Lang reads five creepy tales by the celebrated author: 'Night Fears', 'The Waits', 'W.S.', 'Someone in the Lift' and 'The Price of the Absolute'. Text copyright © The Trustees of the Estate of Annie Norah Hartley, 1953 (The Go-Between), 1954 ('W.S.', 'The Price of the Absolute'), 1961 ('The Waits', 'Someone in the Lift'), 1964 (The Brickfield), 1966 (The Betrayal), 1972 (The Collections) 'Night Fears' first published 1924 Cast and credits Written by L. P. Hartley The Go-Between Cast: Clive Swift, Joe Brothwell, George Greenbury, Eleanor Bron, Lisa Kay, Robert Glenister, Ed Sinclair, Jenny Coverack, Mark Hesketh, Brian Gear, Guy Shotton The Collections Cast: Richard Pearson, Martin Friend, Siân Phillips, Christopher Good, Elizabeth Rider, Eva Stuart, John Bull, Peter Baldwin, Sonia Fraser The Brickfield Cast: Martin Jarvis, Denys Blakelock, Barbara Mitchell, Nigel Anthony, Ann Murray, Noel Hood, Lockwood West, Humphrey Morton, Beth Boyd, Bernard Brown, David Brierley, Sian Davies, Michael Harbour, Leroy Lingwood The Betrayal Cast: Martin Jarvis, Denys Blakelock, Irene Sutcliffe, Alexa Romanes, Shelagh Willcocks, Sian Davies, Bernard Brown, Douglas Hankin, Gudrun Ure, David Brierley, Alexander John, Beth Boyd Short Stories by LP Hartley Read by Robert Lang First broadcast BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: Night Fears 7 November 1988 The Waits 8 November 1988 W.S. 9 November 1988 Someone in the Lift 10 November 1988 The Price of the Absolute 11 November 1988 © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

L.P Hartley: The Go- Between, & More

Real-life events during the Cold War inspired Hugh Whitemore's thriller. In suburban London, loyalty, duty, and friendship conflict with one another when the Jacksons slowly discover that the Krogers, their neighbors and cherished best friends, are Russian spies. A gripping play that may leave you wondering exactly what it is those nice people next door are really up to. An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance featuring: Rosalind Ayres as Barbara Jackson Martin Jarvis as Stewart Megan Austin Oberle as Julie/Sally Roxanne Hart as Helen Kroger Sione Owen as Thelma Julian Sands as Bob Jackson David Selby as Peter Kroger Includes a piece with shortwave radio expert David Goren, who guides us through the sinister underground world of the shortwave "numbers stations." Directed by Peter Levin. Recorded before a live audience at the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles in June of 2004.

Pack of Lies

An all-star cast attend a mysterious private club in this hilarious parody of classic horror tales Membership of the exclusive Mausoleum Club isn't for the faint of heart. The Honorable Clarence Green wants in, but to join he must first hear the spine-chilling stories of the existing members, before enthralling them with one of his own. But are their stories fact or fiction? And will Green still want to join after hearing the horrors they have to tell? A brilliantly unexpected and macabre comedy series parodying classic Victorian stories in episodes such as 'A Study in Starlets', 'The Turn of the Knob' and 'The Pet and the Pendulum', Tales from the Mausoleum Club brings to life strange tales of mystery objects, spooky country mansions, West Country paganism and unholy animal projects. This creepy collection of thirteen episodes opens with the standalone pilot episode, 'The Demon Cakestand of Beastley Chase', starring Stephen Fry. The following two series - Tales from the Mausoleum Club and The Fall of the Mausoleum Club - feature more stunning casts including Terence Stamp, Timothy Spall, Andrew Sachs, Alison Steadman, Jim Broadbent, Roy Hudd, Miranda Richardson, Martin Jarvis and Spike Milligan. It is a compilation of curses, hauntings, monsters and (hysterical) laughter. So... will you dare to join the Mausoleum Club? Written by Ian Brown and James Hendrie Music by Max Harris Produced by Paul Spencer Contents Pilot episode: The Demon Cakestand of Beastley Chase Tales from the Mausoleum Club: The Inaudible Man Heart of Skegness A Study in Starlets The Turn of the Knob Soldiers Three: India Nil Jess of the B'ournevilles The Fall of the Mausoleum Club: The Pet and the Pendulum The Charge of the Boys' Brigade Trevor Island The Prunestone The T Machine Bleak Horse First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 22 December 1984 (The Demon Cakestand of Beastley Chase) 3 January - 7 February 1987 (Tales from the Mausoleum Club) 7 September - 12 October 1988 (The Fall of the Mausoleum Club) ©2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Tales from the Mausoleum Club

Modern technology is terrifying. The average smartphone carries out 3.36 billion instructions per second. The average person can carry out only one instruction in that time. Stop and think about that for a second. Sorry, that's two instructions; you won't be able to do that. But what if modern technology was... literally terrifying? What if there really was a ghost in the machine? Prepare to travel through the bad gateway as acclaimed actor, writer and comedian Tom Neenan (The Mash Report) finds out what horrors may be lurking in our apps and gadgets. From a dating app with paranormal parameters to a sinister smart fridge, a petrifying Peloton, a nightmarish NFT and a word game that turns n*sty, tech blogger Tom discovers the dark side of our beloved devices - with hair-raising results... This box set includes every series of the humorously horrifying anthology/sitcom - including Series 4, which has never previously been released on audio. Jenny Bede co-stars as Tom's friend Heidi, and special guests include Frances Barber, Nicola Walker, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Andy Nyman, Martin Jarvis, Lewis MacLeod, Joanna Lumley and Peter Davison. The show comes from Pozzitive, proud producers of Cabin Pressure, John Finnemore's Double Acts, Thanks a Lot, Milton Jones!, Armando Iannucci's Charm Offensive and Kevin Eldon Will See You Now. Production credits Written by Tom Neenan Produced and directed by David Tyler A Pozzitive production for BBC Radio 4 Cast Tom - Tom Neenan Heidi - Jenny Bede The Cabbie/Reynolds - Roger Morlidge Jane - Kath Hunter Voice of the app - Frances Barber Debbi - Kath Hughes Asag/Dominic/Dean - Ewan Bailey William - Vincent Franklin Amar/The Waiter/'Rency - Naz Osmanoglu Taxi Controller - Georgie Fuller Camilla - Nicola Walker Felixxx - Ivan Gonzalez The Operators - Nina Sosanya, Alison Senior, Lucy Thackeray, Robert Wilfort Tony/The Waiter/Dennis - Dan Tetsell Dr Conroy - Julian Rhind-Tutt Elicia - Georgie Glen DI Gerry - Nicholas Woodeson DC Freck - Ethan Lawrence Olivia - Freya Parker Charlie - Andy Nyman The Advert - Rebecca Gethings Cam - Martin Jarvis June - Phoebe Horn Police Officer - Tayla Kovacevic-Ebong The Deepfakes - Lewis MacLeod Lance - Joseph May Ken - Steve Brody The Archivist - Geoffrey Whitehead The Barman - Morgan Jones With Joanna Lumley and Peter Davison as themselves First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 11-18 October 2017 (Series 1), 17-31 October 2018 (Series 2), 14 October-4 November 2020 (Series 3), 5-26 October 2022 (Series 4) © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

The Hauntening: The Complete Series 1-4

A bumper collection of vintage episodes of the award-winning panel game Just a Minute is BBC Radio 4's longest-running panel show, and a national treasure. Since 1967, it has welcomed an array of stellar guest players to demonstrate their verbal dexterity, wicked wit and brilliant banter, as they attempt to speak for 60 seconds on a given subject without hesitation, repetition or deviation. This extensive, wide-ranging box set brings together 32 of the finest episodes from the programme's history, including 24 taken from the previously published releases Another Classic Collection; A Further Classic Collection; The Golden Collection; Through the Years and A Vintage Collection; as well as 6 shows from The Classic Collection that have never before been available to download. Spanning over four decades, from 1973 to 2005, they chart the evolution of the nation's best-loved radio comedy, showcasing some of the best and funniest panellists including Sheila Hancock, Peter Jones, Derek Nimmo, Tim Rice, Paul Merton, Tony Hawks, Wendy Richard, Jenny Eclair, Graham Norton and Sue Perkins - and, on one notable occasion, Nicholas Parsons. Packed with fast-paced, irreverent fun and ferocious competition, this fabulous collection features more than 14 hours of non-stop laughter, as these talented talkers battle it out in a bid to secure that most elusive of prizes - a perfect, uninterrupted minute. NB: Contains mild innuendo. The humour in these programmes sometimes reflects the era in which they were first broadcast. Due to the archive nature of some of the episodes, the sound quality may vary. Cast and credits Devised by Ian Messiter Produced by Simon Brett, John Lloyd, John Browell, David Hatch, Pete Atkin, Edward Taylor, Anne Jobson, Sarah Smith, Chris Neill and Claire Jones Featuring Sheila Hancock, Peter Jones, Derek Nimmo, Kenneth Williams, William Rushton, Nicholas Parsons, Magnus Pike, Ray Alan, Tim Rice, Brian Johnston, John Junkin, Gyles Brandreth, Martin Jarvis, Barry Cryer, Ian Hislop, Paul Merton, Richard Murdoch, Wendy Richard, Richard Stilgoe, Tony Hawks, Jeremy Hardy, Jenny Eclair, Kit Hesketh-Harvey, Lee Simpson, Graham Norton, Linda Smith, Steve Frost, Stephen Frost, Sue Perkins, Ross Noble, Fred MacAulay, Maria McErlane and Nick Revell Chairman: Nicholas Parsons and (on 12 January 1977) Ian Messiter First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 6 August 1973, 23 December 1975, 15 December 1976, 12 January 1977, 16 March 1977, 20 April 1977, 20 February 1979, 15 January 1980, 12 February 1980, 20 February 1982, 29 October 1983, 28 July 1984, 3 April 1985, 18 January 1986, 18 April 1987, 4 April 1989, 28 April 1990, 23 February 1991, 7 January 1995, 28 January 1995, 11 February 1995, 18 February 1995, 18 January 1999, 1 February 1999, 19 July 1999, 2 August 1999, 25 February 2002, 4 March 2002, 26 January 2004, 31 January 2005, 21 February 2005 and 7 March 2005. © 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Just a Minute

Just a Minute: The Very Best of Vintage

The collected BBC adaptations of Nicolas Freeling's bestselling thrillers - plus bonus documentary Acclaimed as 'the most thoroughly European of British crime writers' (The Guardian), Nicolas Freeling was well known for his novels featuring Dutch sleuth Van der Valk and French policeman Henri Castang. Included in this collection are six stories showcasing both detectives, as well as a bonus programme exploring Van der Valk and his creator. Love in Amsterdam - Martin's former lover has been murdered. He's the prime suspect, his alibi is thin, and he's lying - but is he the killer? It's up to Van der Valk to find out... David Troughton reads the first novel in the Van der Valk series. Gun Before Butter - The Dutch detective finds himself dealing with a body, an abandoned Mercedes and the beautiful daughter of a dead conductor. Ian Hogg and Sophie Thompson star in this dramatisation of Freeling's 1963 novel, the winner of France's Grand Prix de Roman Policier. King of the Rainy Country - A handsome, middle-aged millionaire and a naked girl disappear. Can Van der Valk find them? Martin Jarvis stars in this adaptation of the sixth Van der Valk novel, which received a 1967 Edgar Award for Best Novel. Arlette - When her husband is shot in the street, Arlette Van der Valk takes the law into her own hands. Starring Stella Gonet as Arlette and Nigel Anthony as Piet Van der Valk. The Nightlords - A dead man in the boot of a Rolls-Royce in Normandy threatens to disrupt Anglo-French relations. Keith Barron stars in this dramatisation of Freeling's first book featuring Henri Castang. Not as Far as Velma- Newly-promoted Commissaire Henri Castang probes the case of a missing hotel owner, the bombing of a convent and an elusive British journalist... Starring Keith Barron as Castang. Foreign Bodies: Netherlands - Commissaris Van Der Valk - As part of a series looking at European history through crime fiction, Mark Lawson takes a trip to Amsterdam in search of Van der Valk, and asks how Freeling's fiction reflected changes in postwar Dutch society. Text copyright © Nicolas Freeling 1962 (Love in Amsterdam), 1963 (Guns Before Butter), 1966 (The King of the Rainy Country), 1978 (The Night Lords), 1979 (The Widow), 1989 (Not as Far as Velma) © 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Nicholas Freeling: Van der Valk & Castang

BBC Radio adaptations of Anthony Hope's famous swashbuckling adventure novel and its sequel Anthony Hope's swashbuckling historical novel The Prisoner of Zenda was first published in 1894 and was an instant hit, spawning an 1898 sequel, Rupert of Hentzau, and launching the Ruritanian romance genre. Included here are the radio dramatisations of both thrilling novels, starring Julian Glover as Rudolf Rassendyll and King Rudolf, Martin Jarvis as Rupert of Hentzau and Hannah Gordon as Flavia. The Prisoner of Zenda - On holiday in the East European province of Ruritania, English gentleman Rudolf Rassendyll is caught up in a web of subterfuge. When his distant cousin, King Rudolf, is drugged on the eve of his coronation, Rassendyll is persuaded to impersonate him at the ceremony, thereby thwarting Rudolf's half-brother's attempts to seize the throne. But as the doppelganger is crowned, the real King is kidnapped and imprisoned. To save him, Rassendyll is forced to continue the deception: and finds himself falling in love with the King's intended bride, Princess Flavia... Rupert of Hentzau - Three years on from his Ruritanian adventures, Rudolf Rassendyll is living in voluntary exile, separated from his beloved Flavia since her marriage to the King. His only consolation is the annual red rose she sends him, as a token of love and remembrance. But now, instead of a flower, she has sent a letter - and this incriminating missive has been intercepted by the dastardly Rupert of Hentzau. The repercussions will bring Rassendyll face-to-face with his old foe, as he is embroiled once more in danger and intrigue. First published 1894 (The Prisoner of Zenda) and 1898 (Rupert of Hentzau) The Prisoner of Zenda Rudolf Rassendyll/King Rudolf - Julian Glover Colonel Sapt - Nigel Stock Princess Flavia - Hannah Gordon Count Fritz von Tarlenheim - 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 Adapted by Eric Maschwitz and Kay Patrick Produced by Martin Jenkins Original music (1939) by Robert Chignell and Leslie Woodgate First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 19 May 1973 Rupert of Hentzau Rudolf Rassendyll/King Rudolf - Julian Glover Queen Flavia - Hannah Gordon Herbert/Bauer - Nigel Anthony Hermann/Anton von Strofzing - David Sinclair James - Timothy Alcock Station-Master/Butler - Wilfrid Carter Countess Helga - Hilda Schroder Count Fritz von Tarlenheim - David Timson Madame Helsing/Mother Holf - Diana Bishop Rischenheim - Kerry Francis Rupert of Hentzau - Martin Jarvis Chancellor Helsing/Farmer - Peter Williams Constable/Thug - Vernon Joyner Colonel Sapt - Nigel Stock Fraulein Helsing - Bonnie Hurren Bernenstein - Sean Barrett Simon/Thug - Fraser Kerr Rosa - Cherry Gilliam Adapted by Cynthia Pughe and Kay Patrick Produced by Martin Jenkins First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 26 May 1973 © 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

The Prisoner of Zenda & Rupert of Hentzau

The opening of a letter leads to a desperate chase across Europe in A Matter of Honour by Jeffrey Archer, one of the world's bestselling novelists. Adam Scott listens to the reading of his father's will, aware that the contents can only be meagre. The Colonel, after all, had nothing to leave - except a letter he had never opened himself, a letter that can only bring further disgrace to the family name. Against his mother's advice, Adam opens the letter, and immediately realizes his life can never be the same again. The contents leave him with no choice but to follow a course his father would have described as a matter of honour.

A Matter of Honour

Whether a long-standing fan or a first time listener, this collection of stories is the ultimate Just William audio experience. With over four hours of laugh-out-loud stories, including two stories performed to a live audience, Just William's Greatest Hits! is the perfect entertainment for the whole family. Boring car journeys are a thing of the past! Along with the live stories are Martin Jarvis's personal reflections of recording Just William, giving the listener a true behind- the-scenes insight into how he brings those marvellous characters to life. This is the perfect gift for the Just William fan, whether young or old. The stories included are: 'The Midnight Adventure of Miss Montague'; 'The Outlaws and Cousin Percy'; 'A Bit of Blackmail'; 'William and the Bomb'; 'William and the Snowman'; 'Violet Elizabeth Runs Away'; 'William and the Real Laurence'; 'Finding a School for William'; 'William's Truthful Christmas'; 'The Haunted House'; 'William and the Begging Letter'; 'William and the Badminton Racket'; 'A Question of Exchange'; 'The Weak Spot'; 'William the Rat Lover'; 'The Sweet Little Girl in White' and 'William and the Princess Goldilocks'. Musical Theme: Won't You Be My Ginger? composed and performed by Richard Dworsky (piano) (c) 1995 Inner Vista Music (BMI)

Just William's Greatest Hits

The abridged, downloadable audiobook edition of Anna Sewell's Black Beauty, one of the best-loved childrens tales of all time, read by Martin Jarvis. Black Beauty is a handsome, sweet-tempered colt with a strong spirit. As a young colt he is free to gallop in the fresh green meadows with his beloved mother, Duchess, and their kind master. But when his owners are forced to sell him, Black Beauty goes from a life of comfort and kindness to one of hard labour and cruelty. Bravely he works as hard as he can, suffering at the hands of men who treat animals badly. But Black Beauty has an unbreakable spirit and will, and is determined to survive . . .

Puffin Classics

Black Beauty

A stunning collection of Just William stories, selected and read by Martin Jarvis 'There's nothing to touch them' - Independent on Sunday Richmal Crompton's stories featuring irrepressible schoolboy William Brown have been firm favourites with both young and old for decades. Perpetually scruffy, mud-stained and mischievous, he is a lovable scamp whose pranks usually end in disaster - for his harassed elders at least. With friends Ginger, Douglas and Henry (the Outlaws) and the angelic thorn-in-his-side, the lisping Violet Elizabeth Bott, William has rightly joined the literary, and radio, immortals. Martin Jarvis, who has been hailed as 'the wizard of the talking book' (The Daily Telegraph), has made the voice of William his own, and this collection of 54 laugh-out-loud stories will delight long-standing fans and first-time listeners alike. Also included are two bonus interviews with Richmal Crompton, recorded in 1965 and 1968. Musical Theme: Won't You Be My Ginger? composed and performed by Richard Dworsky (piano) (c) 1995 Inner Vista Music (BMI) The stories included in this collection are: The Christmas Truce Only Just in Time The Midnight Adventure of Miss Montague William and the Musician William Leads a Better Life William and the Twins William's Birthday William and the Little Girl The Outlaws and Cousin Percy William and the Princess Goldilocks The Sweet Little Girl in White A Birthday Treat The Outlaws and the Triplets A Bit of Blackmail William Makes a Night of It William and the Lost Tourist The Leopard Hunter The New Neighbour William the Philanthropist William and the Prize Cat William Holds the Stage William and the School Report All the News Aunt Arabelle in Charge William's Goodbye Present William the Salvage Collector William's Day Off Entertainment Provided William and the Brains Trust William and the Bomb William Goes Shopping Violet Elizabeth Runs Away William and the Real Laurence The Outlaws and the Hidden Treasure William and the Fairy Daffodil The Best Laid Plans Mrs Bott's Hat William Starts the Holidays William Plays Santa Claus William and the Snowman Revenge is Sweet William and the Black Cat William and the Russian Prince William's Busy Day William - The Great Actor William and the White Elephants Finding a School for William William Clears the Slums Parrots for Ethel William's Truthful Christmas Boys will be Boys William and the Ebony Hair-Brush William and the Old Man in the Fog

Just William: A BBC Radio Collection

A second wonderful collection of Just William stories, selected and read by Martin Jarvis Richmal Crompton's stories featuring irrepressible schoolboy William Brown have been firm favourites with both young and old for decades. Perpetually scruffy, mud-stained and mischievous, he is a lovable scamp whose pranks usually end in disaster - for his harassed elders at least. With friends Ginger, Douglas and Henry (the Outlaws) and the angelic thorn-in-his-side, the lisping Violet Elizabeth Bott, William has rightly joined the literary, and radio, immortals. Musical Theme: Won't You Be My Ginger? composed and performed by Richard Dworsky (piano) (c) 1995 Inner Vista Music (BMI) The stories in this collection include: That Boy The Bishop's Handkerchief William and Uncle George The Haunted House William and St Valentine April Fool's Day Not Much The Cure William's Wonderful Plan The Outlaws and the Penknife William the Reformer William's New Year's Day Aunt Florence and the Green Woodpecker The Plan that Failed William and the Begging Letter A Question of Exchange William and the Temporary History Teacher The Outlaws and the Tramp A Few Dogs and William The Outlaws and the Missionary William the Good William and the Young Man William and the Spy William and the Badminton Racket William Turns Over a New Leaf William and Dear Little Peter William and the Waxwork Prince William and the White Cat William and Photography The Great Detective The Fete - and Fortune The Weak Spot The Outlaws Go a-Mumming William's Double Life William to the Rescue William the Film Star William the Rat Lover William the Showman William And the Monster William The Persian The New Game William and the Love Nest The Cat And The Mouse Waste Paper Wanted William The Globe Trotter William And The Prize Pig A Present From William A Night Of Mysteries William and the Chinese God William and the League of Perfect Love Fireworks Strictly Prohibited William the Psychiatrist William Joins the Waits Violet Elizabeth Takes Control William - The Dear Little Boysie William's Brilliant Plan The Outlaws and Aunt Jo Violet Elizabeth's Special Party

Just William: A Second BBC Radio Collection

A very royal saga about The Crown and a very historic house In this story of Crown House, the grand home of the Ministers, the bond is built between the Minister family and the House of Windsor in this tale of changing times and unvarying traditions. This is a tale of two families and a fresh era for the Minsters of Crown House, and the Royal Family of Windsor. The series follow the birth of a royal baby and the growing closeness of William Minster and his wife Alice to the King and Queen. The life of Crown House's staff, as Jenny Webster, the housekeeper's daughter, watches the developments of the beloved Minsters and the saga unfolds between rich and poor, upper-class and lower-, old and young. Both above and below stairs find their lives changed by the passing years, as they are hit by scandal and heartbreak, accidents and loss, love and secrets. Crown House is a moving story of change and upheaval, with an all-star cast including Jane Asher (Brideshead Revisited, Holby City), Martin Jarvis (Just William, Ring for Jeeves), Dinah Sheridan (The Railway Children, Genevieve), Gayle Hunnicutt (A Woman of Substance, Dallas), Richard Pasco (Mrs Brown, A Dance to the Music of Time), Geoffrey Matthews (Coronation Street, The Day of the Triffids) and many more. Written by Juliet Ace (The Archers, Young Victoria) and Peter Ling (The Avengers, Doctor Who) From Peter Ling's Crown House novels, this drama series shines a light on a very different side of the Windsors, and is just the thing for listeners of Cromwell Vs The Crown, Flying the Flag, and Encounters with Victoria. Cast and credits Jenny - Jane Asher Old Bea - Margaret Rawlings Gina - Gayle Hunnicutt Alice - Dinah Sheridan Richard - Martin Jarvis William - Richard Pasco Nicholas - Dominic Rickhards Lady Flora Kelso - Margaret Ward Sir Charles - Geoffrey Matthews Caroline - Cara Kelly Edith - Barbara Atkinson Polly Harvey - Polly James Paul Weyman - John Pullen Mrs Webster - Eva Stuart Nursemaid - Diana Olsson Hawkins - John Samson Grace Duncan - Barbara Hunt Scott Hanson - Ian Michie Grace Duncan - Barbara Leigh-Hunt Miranda - Andrea Kealy Martin - Henry Power Rollo Paton - Norman Bird Thelma, Lady Furness - Shelley Thompson Louie - Simon Cuff Instructor - Philip Sully Cockney Girl - Alice Arnold Tram conductor - Richard Tate Charles Lindbergh - Ed Bishop Telephone operator - Caroline Gruber Landlady - Zelah Clarke Barman - Peter Craze W T Carpenter - David Goudge Seaman - William Simons Radio announcer / Stoker - Michael Tudor Barnes Written by Peter Ling and Juliet Ace Produced by Graham Gauld Originally broadcast on BBC Radio 4: 30 October - 18 December 1988 ©2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Crown

Crown House

In this full-length Just William novel, William and the Outlaws decide to form the Knights of the Square Table, 'rightin' wrongs' for a minor fee ('Small wrongs: sixpence. Big wrongs: one shillin'.) In their quest to earn enough money to become tramps, they stop at no amount of do-gooding, embarking on a plan to marry off their older brothers. William becomes a veritable Don Juan as he woos a visiting film star for his brother (much to the surprise and annoyance of his brother's girlfriend.) Soon the gang have planned a midnight haunting to scare off old monkey face from the big house on the hill - after all, where else will they find a home for the happy young couple? Martin Jarvis portrays the whole gang in this riotous comedy that leaves William teetering on the brink of disaster and success... 'Martin Jarvis's recording of Richmal Crompton's Just William stories are works of genius' - Independent. Musical Theme: Won't You Be My Ginger? composed and performed by Richard Dworsky (piano) (c) 1995 Inner Vista Music (BMI)

Just William's Luck

The story is set circa 1790 in the Dutch settlement of Tarry Town (based on Tarrytown, New York), in a secluded glen called Sleepy Hollow. It tells the story of Ichabod Crane, a lean, lanky, and extremely superstitious schoolmaster from Connecticut, who competes with Abraham "Brom Bones" Van Brunt, the town rowdy, for the hand of 18-year-old Katrina Van Tassel, the daughter and sole child of a wealthy farmer, Baltus Van Tassel. As Crane leaves a party he attended at the Van Tassel home on an autumn night, he is pursued by the Headless Horseman, who is supposedly the ghost of a Hessian trooper who had his head shot off by a stray cannonball during "some nameless battle" of the American Revolutionary War, and who "rides forth to the scene of battle in nightly quest of his head".

The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow

Martin Jarvis reads this exciting novelisation of a classic TV adventure for the Sixth Doctor, introducing the slug-like Sil. The TARDIS has stalled in mid-flight, and it is only on the planet Varos that the Doctor can find the precious Zeiton-7 ore he needs to continue his travels through Time and Space. Arriving on the planet, he saves the rebel Jondar from execution, and incurs the wrath of Sil, the sadistic representative of the Galatron Mining Corporation on Varos. The hunt is on for the Doctor and his rebel friends. And as they are pursued through the corridors of the deadly Punishment Dome, the Doctor discovers that the people of Varos have some very disturbing ideas of entertainment... Martin Jarvis, who played the Governor in the original TV episodes, reads Philip Martin's novelisation of his 1985 serial which starred Colin Baker as the Sixth Doctor. Reading produced by Neil Gardner Sound design by Simon Power Executive Producer: Michael Stevens

Doctor Who: Vengeance on Varos

The collected BBC radio productions of the major works of Oscar Wilde, plus bonus play by Neil Bartlett Loved for his flamboyant personality, sparkling wit and brilliant epigrams, Oscar Wilde was a comic genius and a literary icon. This collection reflects the many facets of his dazzling talent. Here are dramatisations of his only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, a Gothic tale of a gilded aristocrat who makes a dangerous pact, as well as four scintillating social comedies – Lady Windermere’s Fan, A Woman of No Importance, The Importance of Being Earnest and An Ideal Husband. Among the distinguished casts are Ian MacDiarmid, Joely Richardson, Edward Fox, Diana Rigg, Martin Clunes, Michael Hordern and Judi Dench. Moving examples of his correspondence are revealed in The Letters of Oscar Wilde and De Profundis, read by Simon Callow and Simon Russell Beale respectively, and his most famous poem, The Ballad of Reading Gaol, is performed live by stars including Ian McKellen, Neil Tennant and Stephen Fry. In addition, a bonus drama, In Extremis by Neil Bartlett, starring Corin Redgrave and Sheila Hancock, reimagines Oscar Wilde's hastily arranged sitting with a society palm reader, a week before the trial that would cost him so dearly.

The Oscar Wilde BBC Radio Drama Collection

The abridged, downloadable audiobook edition of Dick and Felix Francis's searing and intrue-fillied thriller, Dead Heat. Read by Martin Jarvis. 'I wondered if I was dying. I wasn't afraid to die but, such was the pain in my gut, I wished it would happen soon.' The night before the Two Thousand Guineas at Newmarket sees the great and the good of the horse-racing community gathered for a prestigious black-tie Gala dinner. It is a fitting testament to the glamour of the occasion that Max Moreton is cooking the evening's meal. Max is something of a celebrity in Newmarket circles. He is the chef and founder of the racing town's favourite Michelin-starred restaurant, the Hay Net. However, spending the night in the throes of agony with chronic food poisoning is the last thing Max expects - such things simply aren't becoming of a professional chef. And the last thing he needs is to hear that his food is suspected of putting twenty-four of the guests in hospital. Within hours, Max's restaurant is being forcibly closed, his reputation is teetering on the brink of ruin, and a court case seems to be looming. But the day is far from over, and soon Max Moreton finds himself desperately fighting for more than just his livelihood...

Francis Thriller

Dead Heat

The abridged, downloadable audiobook edition of Dick Francis's thriller, Under Orders, read by Martin Jarvis. "Sadly, death at the races is not uncommon. However, three in one afternoon was sufficiently unusual to raise more than an eyebrow." It's the third death that really troubles former champion jump-jockey Sid Halley. He knows the perils of racing all too well - but in his day, jockeys didn't usually reach the finishing line with three .38 rounds in the chest. But this is precisely how he finds Huw Walker - the new winner of the Triumph Hurdle and Halley's friend. Now former friend. Walker was riding one of Lord Enstone's horses in the Hurdle and it was the inimitable owner who invited Halley in the first place. His brief: to make discrete enquiries into alleged race fixing. Are results being rigged? Are bookies taking a cut? And if so, are trainers and jockeys playing a dangerous game with stakes far higher than they realise ... Halley's quest for answers draws him ever deeper into the darker side of the race game, in a life-or-death power-play that will push him to his very limits - both professionally and personally. "A New Dick Francis is always a cause for celebration" - Mail on Sunday.

Under Orders

In this BBC full-cast production of The Merchant of Venice, love, bigotry, greed, and justice are entwined. Shakespeare's classic play explores the eternal themes of love and hate, mercy and justice, with parallel stories centred on the moneylender, Shylock, and the lovers, Portia and Bassanio. Shylock's angry insistence on the repayment of his debt from Bassanio ends in the Venetian courts, where he demands his pound of flesh. Portia meanwhile, a wealthy young Venetian woman, must marry one of her many suitors. Her late father's will has set the challenge by means of three caskets: one gold, one silver and one lead. Warren Mitchell stars as Shylock, with Martin Jarvis as Antonio, Samuel West as Bassanio and Juliet Aubrey as Portia. This superb production of Shakespeare's dramatic and complex play is directed by the award-winning Peter Kavanagh, and features specially-composed music by the renowned Barrington Pheloung. BBC radio has a unique heritage when it comes to Shakespeare. Since 1923, when the newly-formed company broadcast its first full-length play, generations of actors and producers have honed and perfected the craft of making Shakespeare to be heard. In this acclaimed BBC Radio Shakespeare series, each play is introduced by Richard Eyre, former Director of the Royal National Theatre. Revitalised, original and comprehensive, this is Shakespeare for the modern day.

The Merchant Of Venice

The Doctor walked slowly forward into the cul-de-sac. The giant dinosaur turned its head to focus on the midget now approaching... the Doctor aimed his gun to fire... suddenly from behind came a great roar of anger. He spun round - blocking the exit from the narrow street towered a Tyrannosaurus rex, its savage jaws dripping with blood...  The Doctor and Sarah arrive back in the TARDIS to find London completely deserted - except for the dinosaurs. Has the return of these prehistoric creatures been deliberately planned and, if so, who can be behind it all?   Martin Jarvis, who played Butler in the original TV serial Invasion of the Dinosaurs, reads Malcolm Hulke’s complete and unabridged novelisation, first published by Target Books in 1976.  ‘They’re well-written books - adventure stories of course, but with some thought... the creation of the character of the Doctor had a touch of genius about it.’ - Westminster Press.

Doctor Who And The Dinosaur Invasion

The dignified calm of the Bellona Club is shattered when Lord Peter Wimsey finds General Fentiman dead in his favourite chair. A straighforward death by natural causes? Perhaps... but why can no-one rememeber seeing the general the day he died? And who is the mysterious Mr Oliver? Lord Peter moves between London and Paris, salon and suburbs, to unfold the intriguing case.   The elegant, intelligent amateur sleuth Lord Peter Wimsey is one of detective literature’s most popular creations. Ian Carmichael is the personification of Dorothy L. Sayers’ charming investigator in this BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation.

The Unpleasantness At The Bellona Club

A SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER, NOW A MAJOR FILM STARRING HELEN MIRREN AND IAN MCKELLEN Brought to you by Penguin. This is a life told back to front. This is a man who has lied all his life. Roy is a conman living in a small English town, about to pull off his final con. He is going to meet and woo a beautiful woman and slip away with her life savings. But who is the man behind the con and what has he had to do to survive this life of lies? And why is this beautiful woman so willing to be his next victim? © Nicholas Searle 2016 (P) Penguin Audio 2016

The Good Liar

A collection of the full-cast BBC Radio dramatisations of novels by Terry Pratchett Somewhere on the frontier between thought and reality exists the Discworld, a parallel time and place which might sound and smell very much like our own, but which looks completely different... Published for the very first time are seven full-cast BBC Radio dramatisations of Terry Pratchett's novels, with star-studded casts including Martin Jarvis, Sheila Hancock, Anton Lesser, Philip Jackson, Alex Jennings and Mark Heap. Mort Hopeless young peasant Mort is hired as an apprentice to Death. He'll have free board, use of the company horse, and being dead isn't even compulsory. In fact, it's a dream job - until he discovers that it can be killer for his love life... Wyrd Sisters Three witches meet on a blasted heath. A king is cruelly murdered. A child heir and the kingdom's crown are both missing. But Granny Weatherwax finds that meddling in royal politics is a lot more complicated than certain playwrights would have you believe... Guards! Guards! In Ankh-Morpork, the Haves and the Have-Nots are about fall out. Again. The Night Watch's Captain Vimes is used to this but when the Have-Nots find the key to a lethal, dormant weapon that even they don't understand, he knows it's time so sober up. Eric When precocious young Eric Thursley summons a demon from the loathsome pit to fulfil his every wish, he wants what everyone wants - immortality, to rule the world, and have the most beautiful woman love him. Instead he gets Rincewind, the Disc's most incompetent wizard. Small Gods On the Discworld, Gods are as numerous as herring roe, all elbowing for space at the top. In such a competitive environment, you need an acolyte, and fast. For the Great God Om, Brutha is the Chosen One, or at least the only One available... Night Watch Living in the past is hard. Dying in the past is incredibly easy, especially when there is a serial killer on the loose who targets coppers. Commander Sam Vimes of the City Watch is back in his own rough, tough past, and he has a job to do. ***Bonus Story*** In addition to these Discworld novels, this collection also includes a full-cast dramatisation of Only You Can Save Mankind, from the Johnny Maxwell series. As an alien fleet crosses his computer screen, Johnny prepares to blow the ScreeWee into a million pieces... 'The voice cast is fantastic' - Starburst ©2018 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2018 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Terry Pratchett: The BBC Radio Drama Collection

'They came in cylinders as dreaded falling stars; they were the ultimate killing machines...'   When a Martian spacecraft crash-lands near Woking, mankind is terrorised by aliens in tall, armoured capsules that stalk the countryside on three legs. The frightening machines wreak havoc on London and the Southern Counties with their heat-rays, and survivors are driven underground.   Yet it all began in the calm of an observatory... While scanning the heavens, scientist John Nicholson sees a shower of meteorites heading towards Earth. But what he is witnessing is, in fact, the beginnings of an invasion. Soon, dense black smoke wipes out vast numbers of the population and Nicholson tells how he was plunged into a paralysing nightmare of stark terror and utter destruction.   Martin Jarvis, Peter Sallis and Anthony Jackson also feature in this thrilling six-part, full-cast dramatisation of H.G. Well's classic novel - an immensely atmospheric recording based on one of the most influential stories ever told.

Classic Radio Sci-Fi

The War Of The Worlds

Journey's End is an unflinching vision of life in the tranches towards the end of the First World War. The play opens in a dugout in the trenches in France. Raleigh, a new 18-year-old officer fresh out of school, joins the besieged company of his friend and hero Stanhope. But when he arrives in the trenches, he finds Stanhope dramatically changed. This vintage BBC radio production from 1970 stars Martin Jarvis as Captain Stanhope. Bonus content: This BBC radio release includes The Man From Esher and his Theatre of War, a 30-minute documentary about R C Sherriff and the story behind Journey’s End. Journey's End was an instant stage success in 1928 (starring Laurence Olivier) and remains a remarkable anti-war classic, regularly revived in theatres. A film was released in February 2018, starring Sam Claflin (Hunger Games, Me Before You) as Stanhope and Asa Butterfield (Hugo) as Raleigh, along with Paul Bettany, Toby Jones and Tom Sturridge. Cast: Captain Stanhope...Martin Jarvis Osborne...Garard Green Raleigh...Derek Seaton Trotter...Kevin Brennan Hibbert/Private...Michael Harbour Colonel...Richard Hurndall Sergeant Major...John Bentley Mason...Malcolm Hayes Hardy...John Graham German soldier...Patrick Tull Adapted by Peter Watts. Produced by Christopher Venning.

Journey's End

Eight full-cast BBC Radio productions of Shakespeare's best-loved comedies Full of merriment, mayhem, mischief and mistaken identity, here are eight iconic radio productions of Shakespeare's most magical comedies, featuring star casts and introduced by Sir Richard Eyre. Much Ado About Nothing Shakespeare's delightful comedy sparkles with the verbal sparring of our two reluctant lovers in a world where nothing is quite what it seems. David Tennant and Samantha Spiro star as Benedick and Beatrice. As You Like It The Forest of Arden resonates with declarations of love in this joyous pastoral comedy, starring Helena Bonham Carter as Rosalind, David Morrissey as Orlando and Natasha Little as Celia. A Midsummer Night's Dream In this delightful comic fantasy, four young lovers and a troupe of actors have a bewitching encounter with Fairyland. Starring David Threlfall as Theseus/Oberon, Sylvestra Le Touzel as Titania/Hippolyta and Amanda Root as Hermia. The Merchant of Venice Shakespeare's thrilling courtroom drama explores the eternal themes of love and hate, mercy and justice. Starring Warren Mitchell as Shylock, with Martin Jarvis as Antonio, Juliet Aubrey as Portia and Samuel West as Bassanio. Twelfth Night On the night when all the world is turned on its head, girls become boys and women lust after women, in this most optimistic of Shakespeare's comedies. Michael Maloney stars as Orsino and Anne-Marie Duff as Viola. The Tempest A ship at sea and an enchanted island are the settings for this allegorical tale of betrayal, sorcery, revenge and reconciliation. Starring Philip Madoc as Prospero and Nina Wadia as Ariel. The Taming of the Shrew Farce, disguise, elaborate role-playing and acerbic exchanges of wit combine to make up an extraordinary love story that still sparks controversy 400 years after it was written. Gerard McSorley stars as Petruchio and Ruth Mitchell as Katherina. All's Well That Ends Well This intriguing play tells of the questionable course of action a young woman takes to win the hand of the man she loves. Emma Fielding stars as Helena, with Siân Phillips, Miriam Margolyes, Richard Griffiths and Simon Russell Beale.

BBC Radio Shakespeare: A Collection of Eight Comedies

Martin Jarvis stars in this BBC radio satire set in the competitive world of advertising Happiness... is a career in advertising. Or is it? Activist turned ad writer Ken Handley isn't so sure. Back in the day, he used to hitch-hike and attend peace protests. Now, he finds himself writing copy for the Conservative Party and extolling the virtues of products he hates - while also coping with a drunken boss, strait-laced colleagues and an overactive mind. Over three series, we follow his exploits and moral dilemmas as he grapples with the challenges of winning accounts, presenting to clients and dealing with the women in his life. A pitch for a motorway services chain drives him round the bend, a seven-foot squirrel nearly sends him nuts, and he faces his own emergency when he's coerced into a Samaritans campaign. On the domestic front, Ken's got a divorce and a new home to contend with - but things start looking up when leggy model April comes on the scene... Written by Guy Jenkin (Drop the Dead Donkey) and Jon Canter (Posh Nosh), this sardonic advertising sitcom stars Martin Jarvis as Ken, with a cast including Imelda Staunton, Lesley Manville, Joss Ackland and Miriam Margolyes. Production credits Script and commercial concepts by Guy Jenkin Commercials by Jon Canter Produced by Geoffrey Perkins (Series 1) and Pete Atkin (Series 2 & 3) First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 18 January-22 February 1982 (Series 1), 7 February-13 March 1984 (Series 2), 7 October-11 November 1986 (Series 3) Cast Ken Handley - Martin Jarvis Sarah - Sheila Steafel Sandy - Christopher Godwin Freddie - Lockwood West Hitchhiker - Vincent Brimble Portley - Richard Bebb Runcie - Simon Jones June - Wendy Richard Johnnie - Patrick Barr Murray - Gary Cady The General - Bill Fraser Mr Sandell - John Blythe Barman - Geoffrey McGivern Virgil - Marc Smith Mr Sandell:- John Blythe Cindy- Heather Bell Katie- Miranda Forbes Director- David Gooderson Ravi - Ahmed Khalil Deborah - Rosalind Ayres Ambrose - Paul Jesson Janet/Receptionist/Researcher - Stacey Tendeter Mr Cheater/Mr McCafferty - James Griffiths Angus - Michael Jenner Derek - David Peart Stella - Imelda Staunton Stella's Heavy - Jim Carter Subjects - David Peart & Michael Jenner Leo Gale - Glyn Owen Christina - Jo Manning Wilson Receptionist - Maggie McCarthy George - Peter Tuddenham Corners - Don Henderson Benny - Karl Howman Lesley - Pauline Siddle Andy - Chris Emmett Film director - Scott Cherry Tone - Jeremy Clyde Doregan - Lesley Manville Elvira - Moir Leslie Kip - Joseph Marcell April - Shelley Thompson Hedley - Robert Longden Artiste - David Learner Larry Childs - William Hootkins Loretta-Jane Duff - Toni Coyne Dawn/Masseuse - Sally Watts Sally/Choirboy - Jane Leonard Len - Roger Sloman Val/Veronica - Liz Crowther Alf - Roger Hammond Till lady - Avril Clark Doorman - Richard Durden Barman - James MacPherson Policeman - Graham Blockey With the voices of Joss Ackland, Miriam Margolyes, James Griffiths, John Shrapnel, David Tate, James Griffiths, Sally Grace, Enn Reitel and Anton Rodgers

Legal, Decent, Honest and Truthful: The Complete Series 1-3

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