• Radio Drama Podcasts

By avistetto I love audio drama. It's probably my favorite form of entertainment. And I listened to this podcast for a long time, as it provided a very good resource for finding new material to listen to. But I was frustrated because the audio quality is so horrible, particularly for the interviews. The levels are so bad that it is not very feasible to listen to. As someone who works in radio, I find it hard to believe that this is at all produced in a professional environment. If audio drama is truly going to be revived to its previous vibrancy, it will need champions that know how to produce something that is listenable.

By Malleus Chris Full disclosure - I write the irregular Malleus review column on English and German language audio drama for the radiodramarevival website. I am otherwise not involved with this show.I think you'd be hard pressed to find a better champion of modern audio drama than Fred Greenhalgh. He's talented, passionate about audio drama, and young in the best way - constantly exploring, discovering, and expanding. As much as I respect the wisdom of audio drama's elders, who are often featured in Fred's interviews, their strong views often blind them to corners of the field that are blossoming. (Such as, say, professional snobbery towards internet-based newcomers, or genre fiction.) If I could have Tom Lopez or Yuri Rasovsky host this show, I'd stick with Fred. Fred casts his net wide across the field of contemporary audio drama producers and dramatic subjects. I've been listening avidly to audio drama for about 25 years, and Fred still manages to surprise me with new works and new artists on a regular basis.

And he broadcasts complete stories, not teasers, that you can download for free (some for a limited time only, so keep up to date). That 'try before you buy' model is pretty rare when it comes to professional contemporary audio drama. I think it is valuable for both sides, giving enthusiasts a good idea of what's out there, and helping producers build an audience for their work.Fred has an ear for quality as well. His show has featured the work of modern luminaries such as ZBS, Crazy Dog, Sue Zizza, and AMFM theater (you must hear their 'God of the Razor' adaptation!). Talented amateur productions are also featured. Unlike many other shows, OTR (Old Time Radio) is barely a presence, which I count a good thing.

Radio Drama Podcasts

I love OTR, but this show's focus on contemporary work sets it apart.The dramas are clear and broadcast quality. I find the phone interviews perfectly listenable, and must respectfully disagree with the previous reviewer. Naturally the best thing to do is sample the show and decide for yourself. I'm confident that once you give it a try, you'll be hooked, entertained, and much better informed about contemporary audio drama.

Ian Fleming's 1959 novel faithfully dramatised by Archie Scottney and directed by Martin Jarvis. Toby Stephens returns as 007, and a glittering cast is led by Ian McKellen in the title role.

With cameo roles by top actors - all delighted to contribute to this remarkable Fleming adventure. Rosamund Pike plays wacky gang-boss Pussy Galore and Lisa Dillon is the vengeful Tilly Masterton. John Standing returns as 'M'.

Tom Hollander, Tim Pigott-Smith and American star Hector Elizondo as New York City mobsters. Bond and Goldfinger are joined in the famous golf game by Alistair McGowan as the caddie, Hawker. Henry Goodman, Ian Ogilvy and Lloyd Owen contribute to the excitement. And Jon David Yu throws his bowler-hat with deadly effect as 'Oddjob'. Auric Goldfinger is not only a cheat at canasta and golf, he's also an international criminal on a massive scale. His obsession: gold.

James Bond is charged by the Bank of England and MI5 to discover what Goldfinger is actually doing with his vast hoards of gold. Is he somehow connected with SMERSH - the feared soviet spy-killing organisation? When 007 becomes an undercover member of Goldfinger's team he soon learns that the madman's plans are more grandiose than even 'M' could possibly have imagined.

Amazingly, robbing Fort Knox is on the agenda - and mass murder. Cast: Goldfinger. Ian McKellen James Bond.Toby Stephens 'M'.

John Standing Col.Smithers. Ian Ogilvy Pussy Galore.Rosamund Pike Tilly Masterton. Lisa Dillon Johnny Solo.Tim Pigott-Smith Mr Strap.Tom Hollander Du Pont.Henry Goodman Hawker. Alistair McGowan Helmut Springer.Hector Elizondo Felix Leiter. Lloyd Owen Jed Midnight.Nigel Anthony Jill Masterton. Anna Louise Plowman Oddjob. Jon David Yu Alfred.Alan Shearman Nigel.Matthew Wolf Fleming.Martin Jarvis Doctors & Pilot.Kyle Stoller Nurse.Tracy Pattin Dramatised by Archie Scottney.

Music composed by Mark Holden and Sam Barbour. Producer: Rosalind Ayres Director: Martin Jarvis A Jarvis & Ayres production for BBC Radio 4. Show more / Show less.