Three BBC Radio programmes charting Sir Lenny Henrys transformation from comic actor to tragic hero including the complete full-cast production of Shakespeares Othello
Lenny Henry used to hate Shakespeare. For over 35 years he avoided anything to do with the Bard until, in 2006, he decided to find out just what the rest of the world saw in him. In this enthralling collection, we hear how Lennys late-flowering passion for the legendary playwrights works set him on the path that led to his sell-out stage debut as Othello. Bringing together this behind-the-scenes journey with the final result, this collection culminates in Lennys standout performance in a dynamic full-cast radio production of Othello.
Lenny and Will sees him going in search of the magic of Shakespeare in performance, starting at the recreated Globe Theatre. Talking to leading actors and directors including Adrian Lester, Dame Judi Dench, Sir Peter Hall, Trevor Nunn, Dominic Dromgoole and Patsy Rodenburg, he wonders why we put Shakespeare on a pedestal, and confesses to a newfound enthusiasm for his classic dramas. And, after reciting Othellos last speech to Northern Broadsides Barrie Rutter, he begins to wonder if he could take on the role for real...
Lenny Henry Plays Othello takes up the story where Lenny and Will left off, continuing Lennys personal odyssey. Having been offered the chance of a lifetime by Barrie Rutter, he sets out on a long road of preparation. Listening to his audio diary, we hear his hopes and fears and eavesdrop on everything from coaching sessions to boot fittings. From first rehearsals to curtain up, we follow his remarkable metamorphosis into Shakespeares betrayed Moorish general.
Finally, in Lenny Henry in Othello, we hear Lennys acclaimed performance as the noble African commander whose mind is poisoned by the hate-filled Iago: a stunning achievement that won him the Evening Standards Outstanding Newcomer Award. Featuring the cast of the acclaimed West End production and with original music from Conrad Nelson, who also plays Iago, this mesmerising tale of love, jealousy, racism and desire will grip you from start to tragic finish.
Cast and credits
Lenny and Will
Presented by Lenny Henry
Produced by Simon Elmes
With Adrian Lester, Dame Judi Dench, Sir Peter Hall, Trevor Nunn, Barrie Rutter, Dominic Dromgoole and Patsy Rodenburg
First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 25 Mar 2006 and 23 Dec 2006
Lenny Henry Plays Othello
Produced by Simon Elmes
First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 20 Feb 2009
Lenny Henry in Othello
Iago Conrad Nelson
Roderigo Matt Connor
Brabantio Geoff Leesley
Othello Lenny Henry
Cassio Richard Standing
Duke/Gratiano David Beckford
Senator/Lodovico Simon Holland Roberts
Desdemona Jessica Harris
Montano Andy Cryer
Emilia Sara Poyzer
Herald/Gentleman Chris Pearse
Bianca Victoria Gee
Written by William Shakespeare
Directed by Barrie Rutter
Produced by David Hunter
Music arranged by Conrad Nelson and performed by the cast
Original stage production created by Northern Broadsides and West Yorkshire Playhouse and staged in London by Sonia Friedman Productions
First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 27 Feb 2010
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