The Barn Theatre, Cirencester – until 11th October 2025
Reviewed by Josie and Win Armand Smith
4****
This slick production of a highly enjoyable play written by Tim Stimpson, who has penned almost five hundred episodes of the The Archers. It was commissioned by the Barn Theatre and licensed by the BBC to celebrate 75 years of the Archers on BBC Radio.
The play is a juxtaposition of time travel and current day thinking. Set in a BBC studio it tells the story of how a group of actors set the scene of rural life that went on to become the longest running radio programme. It is a splendid celebration of such a long lasting, much loved show. It became relevant to country life and the change in farming methods as well as taking up current topics.It is easy to forget that radio in 1950 was a key communication tool for light entertainment. It touches on Dick Barton , Special Agent and all his daring deeds, Mrs Dales Diary, a morning drift through the daily life of a doctor’s wife and The Goon Show. Everyone listened to some or all of these shows but it was The Archers that prompted huge numbers to tune in to the wireless once a day. It evokes so many memories of the squeaks and dings of tuning a wireless through Hilversum, Luxembourg etc to get the the Light Programme.
There are brilliant performances by all with a particularly skilful portrayal of multiple characters by Liam Horrigan and Rosanna Miles. The rest of the ensemble, Anthony Glennon, Kieran Brown, Olivia Bernstone, Geebs Marie Williams and James Mack make this a memorable performance.
It’s directed by Joseph O’Malley. Great set and costumes designed by Alfie Heywood, with lighting design provided by Adam Foley, composer and sound designer is Amanda Priestley.
This is a must see for all Archers fans but it does not matter if you have never heard the Archers, you will still enjoy this fun play.