Aldous Huxley: A BBC Radio Drama Collection

BBC Radio adaptations of Aldous Huxley’s finest works – plus a bonus documentary programme Philosopher, pacifist, psychonaut and prophet Aldous Huxley was one of the 20th century’s pre-eminent intellectuals and writers. The author of over 50 books, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize nine times, and elected Companion of Literature by the Royal Society of Literature in 1962, a year before his death. Known for his mordant satire and visionary ideas, Huxley spanned the period from post-First World War disillusionment to mid-century mysticism, and the works in this collection reflect his literary evolution. Antic Hay, his witty, ironic portrait of the glittering hedonism of 1920s London, is dramatised by award-winning playwright Mike Harris, and stars James Cooney and Emily Pithon. Originally a short story, Huxley’s dark comedy of manners The Gioconda Smile was adapted as a hit West End play in 1948. This BBC Radio dramatisation stars Peter Bowles as the womanizing Henry Hutton, about to marry his second wife but accused of killing his first. Brave New World is Huxley’s classic 1932 tale of a future totalitarian dystopia, where promiscuity is the norm, eugenics a respectable science and the drug Soma is freely available. Adapted for Radio 4, it stars Jonathan Coy, Justin Salinger, Milton Lopes and Anton Lesser. Aldous Huxley’s 1953 novel The Devils of Loudon, an imagined account of a real-life witch trial in 17th-century France, was revamped for the stage as The Devils in 1960. A gripping tale of mass hysteria, religious and sexual obsession and alleged demonic possession, this radio version stars Michael Bryant and Sarah Badel. The Dwarves, a full-cast drama based on Chapter 13 of Crome Yellow, tells the story of Sir Hercules and his wife Filomena, whose country-house haven for dwarves like themselves is unexpectedly threatened. David Learner, Claire Faulconbridge and Garard Green star. Concluding our collection are readings of five of his short stories set in the 1920s and a fascinating biographical documentary. Edward Petherbridge reads ‘Cynthia’, ‘The Bookshop’, ‘Eupompus Gave Splendour to Art by Numbers’, ‘Fard’ and ‘The Portrait’, while the documentary All Those Vile Bodies explores the contradictions of the satirist of the brittle 20s turned prescient critic of 20th-century progress. Valentine Cunningham presents, with contributions from Sybille Bedford, Lord Jenkins, Sir Stephen Spender, Gavin Ewart, Julian Symons and Lewis Wolpert, and archive recordings of Huxley, his brother Julian and contemporaries. First published 1920 (‘Cynthia’, ‘The Bookshop’, ‘Eupompus Gave Splendour to Art by Numbers’), 1921 (‘The Dwarves’), 1923 (Antic Hay), 1924 (‘Fard’, ‘The Portrait’), 1932 (Brave New World), 1948 (The Gioconda Smile), 1960 (The Devils)

Delving into Huxley's Worlds: A Journey Through BBC Radio Dramas

Prepare to embark on a literary odyssey spanning dystopian futures, satirical social critiques, and philosophical explorations of human nature – all within the evocative realm of BBC Radio dramas. "Aldous Huxley: A BBC Radio Drama Collection" invites you to step into the mind of one of the 20th century's most provocative and versatile writers, experiencing his iconic works through the power of voice, sound, and imagination.

This treasure trove of audio masterpieces delves deep into Huxley's diverse portfolio, showcasing his wit, satirical bite, and prophetic vision. Brace yourself for the chillingly familiar world of "Brave New World," where happiness is chemically induced and individuality a dangerous deviation. Hear Bernard Marx and Helmholtz Watson struggle against the suffocating control of a perfectly engineered society, their voices echoing both defiance and despair.

Next, plunge into the glittering hedonism of the 1920s with "Antic Hay," Huxley's scathing portrait of a self-absorbed generation. Witness Theo Gumbril's pursuit of fortune and pleasure amidst a whirlwind of bohemian parties and witty repartee, delivered with razor-sharp precision by the cast.

But Huxley's gaze isn't limited to societal critique. "The Gioconda Smile" delves into the murky depths of desire and guilt, as Henry Hutton grapples with the death of his first wife and the complexities of love and betrayal. Peter Bowles' masterful performance imbues the protagonist with a nuanced mix of charm and moral unease, keeping you enthralled until the final shocking revelation.

For a touch of the fantastical, explore "The Dwarves," a whimsical tale of a hidden community of little people threatened by the outside world. David Learner and Claire Faulconbridge breathe life into Sir Hercules and Filomena, their gentle voices weaving a spell of wonder and acceptance over the listener.

Beyond the dramas, the collection offers a unique window into Huxley's mind through readings of his short stories. Edward Petherbridge's masterful narration brings to life snapshots of the roaring twenties, where societal anxieties and existential questions simmer beneath the surface of frivolous pursuits.

And to fully grasp the breadth of Huxley's legacy, immerse yourself in the accompanying documentary, "All Those Vile Bodies." Woven from archival recordings and insightful commentary, it paints a portrait of the man and his times, exploring the evolution of his thought and the enduring relevance of his work.

"Aldous Huxley: A BBC Radio Drama Collection" is more than just a collection of audiobooks; it's an invitation to rediscover a literary giant. Whether you're a seasoned Huxley aficionado or a curious newcomer, this immersive experience promises hours of intellectual stimulation, emotional rollercoaster rides, and lingering reflections on the human condition. So, put on your headphones, adjust the volume, and prepare to be transported to Huxley's captivating worlds, where laughter mingles with unease, beauty clashes with darkness, and the future hangs precariously in the balance.