When We are Married (Classic Radio Theatre)

By: J. B. Priestley

Narrated by: Alan Bennett

A sparkling BBC Radio 4 adaptation of J.B. Priestley’s comic play, starring Alan Bennett, Brenda Blethyn, Gwen Taylor, Alun Armstrong, Michael Jayston and Nicola Pagett. Three eminently respectable Yorkshire couples are in the midst of their joint silver wedding celebrations when they receive a rude shock - they are not legally married.

Confronted with this revelation, the couples face a host of personal dilemmas - not to mention the fear of the public scandal that would ensue if the news were to get out. Hovering closely over the proceedings is the Yorkshire Argus’ alcohol-soaked photographer, keen to record the evening’s events for posterity, and a wickedly destructive housekeeper who is hoping to use the couples’ mortification to her own advantage...Elizabeth Spriggs and Polly James are also amongst the cast in this BBC Radio 4 production from 1994.The 'Classic Radio Theatre' range presents notable radio productions of much-loved plays by some of the most renowned playwrights, and starring some of our finest actors.

©2011 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2011 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Funny and warm--a period gem!

A lovely small play by Priestley, who is well known for his plays puncturing the pretensions of the British upper classes and those aspiring to such status, such as The Inspector Calls. This is a comedy with the same general theme, but it has affection rather than hatred for its subjects. A tale of upper middle class couples from the North of England who suddenly find out they were never married as they thought, 25 years earlier. The play is gentle but funny, and gives a stellar cast of actors a chance to show off the beauty of ensemble acting. The standout is Alan Bennett as "erbert," but Belinda Blethyn and Nicola Paget are also notable. Enjoy!