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Old Radio Shows
Hosted by Audio Shows · EN
Welcome to Audio Shows Step back in time with our podcast for fans of Old British and American radio shows. Audio Shows brings you comedy classics like 'The Goon Show' and gripping dramas such as 'The Shadow'. Each week, we highlight the best of vintage radio, featuring special episodes with expert interviews and behind-the-scenes stories. Join our community of enthusiasts and follow us on Twitter @AudioShows, and Facebook.
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ROUND THE HORNE - From Russia With Love - UK COMEDY
Nov 29, 202400:30:09Tap to summarizeWhether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "Round the Horne" offers a delightful blend of humor, camaraderie, and historical insight. Join us as we explore the world of Kenneth Horne and his lovable but hapless cast of characters. Welcome to "Round the Horne," a classic BBC radio comedy that brings humor and nostalgia to the airwaves. This beloved series, which originally aired from 1965 to 1968, was written by Barry Took and Marty Feldman. The show follows the misadventures of a group of characters in various sketches, parodies, and musical numbers, all presented in a unique and irreverent style.The Story Behind Round the Horne"Round the Horne" was created by Barry Took and Marty Feldman, drawing from their experiences in the British entertainment industry. The series was broadcast by the BBC in four series of weekly episodes from 1965 to 1968. The lead roles were played by Kenneth Horne, Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden, and Bill Pertwee. The show was known for its double entendres and innuendos, which often pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on radio at the time.Key Characters and VoicesThe main cast includes: Kenneth Horne as the host and various characters Kenneth Williams as various characters, including Rambling Syd Rumpo Hugh Paddick as various characters, including Julian in the "Julian and Sandy" sketches Betty Marsden as various characters, including Fiona in the "Charles and Fiona" sketches Bill Pertwee as various characters
Transcribe →ROUND THE HORNE - Edward Braden is Missing - UK COMEDY
Nov 25, 202400:29:51Tap to summarizeWhether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "Round the Horne" offers a delightful blend of humor, camaraderie, and historical insight. Join us as we explore the world of Kenneth Horne and his lovable but hapless cast of characters. Welcome to "Round the Horne," a classic BBC radio comedy that brings humor and nostalgia to the airwaves. This beloved series, which originally aired from 1965 to 1968, was written by Barry Took and Marty Feldman. The show follows the misadventures of a group of characters in various sketches, parodies, and musical numbers, all presented in a unique and irreverent style.The Story Behind Round the Horne"Round the Horne" was created by Barry Took and Marty Feldman, drawing from their experiences in the British entertainment industry. The series was broadcast by the BBC in four series of weekly episodes from 1965 to 1968. The lead roles were played by Kenneth Horne, Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden, and Bill Pertwee. The show was known for its double entendres and innuendos, which often pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on radio at the time.Key Characters and VoicesThe main cast includes: Kenneth Horne as the host and various characters Kenneth Williams as various characters, including Rambling Syd Rumpo Hugh Paddick as various characters, including Julian in the "Julian and Sandy" sketches Betty Marsden as various characters, including Fiona in the "Charles and Fiona" sketches Bill Pertwee as various characters
Transcribe →THE GOON SHOW - The Goon Show - UK COMEDY
Nov 22, 202400:27:48Tap to summarizeWhether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "The Goon Show" offers a unique blend of surreal humor and cultural satire. Join us as we delve into the world of Neddie Seagoon and his eccentric companions, and experience the comedic genius that has inspired countless performers and entertained audiences for decades. Welcome to "The Goon Show," a legendary British radio comedy program that has captivated audiences with its surreal humor and innovative sound effects. Originally broadcast by the BBC from 1951 to 1960, "The Goon Show" is a cornerstone of British comedic history, featuring the talents of Spike Milligan, Peter Sellers, and Harry Secombe.The Story Behind The Goon Show"The Goon Show" was the brainchild of Spike Milligan, who served as the chief creator and main writer. The show was initially titled "Crazy People" before adopting the iconic name "The Goon Show." Known for its absurd plots, clever wordplay, and groundbreaking use of sound effects, the series satirized various aspects of contemporary British life, including politics, the military, and popular culture.Key Characters and VoicesThe main cast includes: Spike Milligan as various characters, including Eccles and Count Jim Moriarty Peter Sellers as Bluebottle, Hercules Grytpype-Thynne, and other roles Harry Secombe as Neddie Seagoon, the central character in many episodes Michael Bentine as Professor Osric Pureheart (in the early series)
Transcribe →HANCOCK'S HALF HOUR - The Boxing Champion - UK COMEDY
Nov 18, 202400:28:47Tap to summarizeWhether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "Hancock's Half Hour" offers a delightful blend of humor, camaraderie, and historical insight. Join us as we explore the world of Anthony Hancock and his lovable but hapless adventures. Welcome to "Hancock's Half Hour," a classic radio comedy that brings humor and nostalgia to the airwaves. This beloved series, which originally aired from 1954 to 1961, was written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson. The show follows the misadventures of Anthony Aloysius St John Hancock, a down-at-heel comedian living at the dilapidated 23 Railway Cuttings in East Cheam.The Story Behind Hancock's Half Hour"Hancock's Half Hour" was created by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, drawing from their experiences in the British entertainment industry. The series starred Tony Hancock, with Sidney James; the radio version also co-starred, at various times, Moira Lister, Andrée Melly, Hattie Jacques, Bill Kerr, and Kenneth Williams. The show was influential in the development of the situation comedy, with its move away from radio variety towards a focus on character development.Key Characters and VoicesThe main cast includes: Tony Hancock as Anthony Aloysius St John Hancock Sidney James as Sidney James Moira Lister as various characters Andrée Melly as various characters Hattie Jacques as various characters Bill Kerr as various characters Kenneth Williams as various characters
Transcribe →NAVY LARK - The Fairground Lights - UK COMEDY
Nov 15, 202400:29:21Tap to summarizeWelcome to "The Navy Lark," a classic Radio Comedy that has been entertaining audiences since 1959. This beloved sitcom follows the misadventures of the crew of HMS Troutbridge, a fictional Royal Navy frigate based in Portsmouth. The show is known for its witty humor, engaging characters, and hilarious situations, making it a must-listen for both avid fans and newcomers alike. The Story Behind The Navy Lark"The Navy Lark" was created by Lawrie Wyman and George Evans, and it originally aired on the BBC Light Programme. The show was inspired by the real-life experiences of sailors in the Royal Navy and features a talented cast, including Leslie Phillips, Jon Pertwee, and Stephen Murray. Over its 15-series run, the show became the second-longest-running radio program produced by the BBC. Key Characters and Voices The main cast includes: Leslie Phillips as Sub-Lieutenant Leslie Phillips Jon Pertwee as Chief Petty Officer Jon Pertwee, Commander Weatherby, and The Master Stephen Murray as Lieutenant Commander Stephen Murray (from Series 2 onwards) Dennis Price as Lieutenant Commander Dennis Price (Series 1) Ronnie Barker as Able Seaman Jeremiah (Fatso) Johnson, Commander Stanton, Commander Bell, Mr. Queeg, Mr. Merryvale, and Able Seaman Bright (Dumbo) Heather Chasen as Wren Heather Chasen, Ramona Povey, Rita Ffont-Bittocks/Murray, and Lady Amelia Todhunter Brown Richard Caldicot as Commander/Captain Henry Povey Tenniel Evans as Able/Leading Seaman Goldstein, The Admiral Ffont-Bittocks, Nunkie Ebeneezer Pertwee, Lord Willoughby/Willerby Todhunter Brown, and Admiral Superintendent Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "The Navy Lark" offers a delightful blend of humor, camaraderie, and naval antics. Join us as we explore the world of HMS Troutbridge and its lovable but hapless crew.
Transcribe →NAVY LARK - Working Their Passage - UK COMEDY
Nov 11, 202400:28:59Tap to summarizeWelcome to "The Navy Lark," a classic Radio Comedy that has been entertaining audiences since 1959. This beloved sitcom follows the misadventures of the crew of HMS Troutbridge, a fictional Royal Navy frigate based in Portsmouth. The show is known for its witty humor, engaging characters, and hilarious situations, making it a must-listen for both avid fans and newcomers alike. The Story Behind The Navy Lark"The Navy Lark" was created by Lawrie Wyman and George Evans, and it originally aired on the BBC Light Programme. The show was inspired by the real-life experiences of sailors in the Royal Navy and features a talented cast, including Leslie Phillips, Jon Pertwee, and Stephen Murray. Over its 15-series run, the show became the second-longest-running radio program produced by the BBC. Key Characters and Voices The main cast includes: Leslie Phillips as Sub-Lieutenant Leslie Phillips Jon Pertwee as Chief Petty Officer Jon Pertwee, Commander Weatherby, and The Master Stephen Murray as Lieutenant Commander Stephen Murray (from Series 2 onwards) Dennis Price as Lieutenant Commander Dennis Price (Series 1) Ronnie Barker as Able Seaman Jeremiah (Fatso) Johnson, Commander Stanton, Commander Bell, Mr. Queeg, Mr. Merryvale, and Able Seaman Bright (Dumbo) Heather Chasen as Wren Heather Chasen, Ramona Povey, Rita Ffont-Bittocks/Murray, and Lady Amelia Todhunter Brown Richard Caldicot as Commander/Captain Henry Povey Tenniel Evans as Able/Leading Seaman Goldstein, The Admiral Ffont-Bittocks, Nunkie Ebeneezer Pertwee, Lord Willoughby/Willerby Todhunter Brown, and Admiral Superintendent Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "The Navy Lark" offers a delightful blend of humor, camaraderie, and naval antics. Join us as we explore the world of HMS Troutbridge and its lovable but hapless crew.
Transcribe →BEYOND OUR KEN - I'm Not At All in Love - UK COMEDY
Nov 8, 202400:29:18Tap to summarizeWhether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "Beyond Our Ken" offers a delightful blend of humour, music, and cultural commentary. Join us as we explore the world of Kenneth Horne and his lovable but hapless companions. Welcome to "Beyond Our Ken," a classic radio comedy series that delighted audiences from 1958 to 1964. This iconic program starred Kenneth Horne, with Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden, and Bill Pertwee, and was known for its innovative format and hilarious sketches.The Story Behind Beyond Our Ken"Beyond Our Ken" was created by Eric Merriman and Barry Took, who wrote the scripts for the first two series. The show was a groundbreaking comedy program that interspersed comic sections with musical interludes, featuring the BBC Revue Orchestra and the Fraser Hayes Four. The series was known for its unique opening format, which began with a short sketch based on a punning reference to a film title, followed by the announcer, Douglas Smith, introducing the fictional guests for the week.Key Characters and VoicesThe main cast includes: Kenneth Horne as the central character Kenneth Williams as various characters, including Arthur Fallowfield Hugh Paddick as various characters, including Ricky Livid Betty Marsden as various characters, including Fanny Haddock Bill Pertwee as various characters, including Hanky Flowerd Douglas Smith as the announcer Influence and Legacy "Beyond Our Ken" was a significant influence on later British comedies, including "Round the Horne," which built on the success of the earlier show. The series continues to be celebrated for its innovative format and timeless humour. Beyond Our Ken BBC radio comedy Kenneth Horne Kenneth Williams Hugh Paddick Betty Marsden Bill Pertwee Douglas Smith Classic comedy 1950s entertainment Spotify podcasts Google search comedy series
Transcribe →DAD'S ARMY - The Armoured Might of Lance Co - UK COMEDY
Nov 4, 202400:27:06Tap to summarizeWhether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "Dad's Army" offers a delightful blend of humor, camaraderie, and historical insight. Join us as we explore the world of the Walmington-on-Sea Home Guard and their lovable but hapless adventures. Welcome to "Dad's Army," a classic British radio sitcom that brings humor and nostalgia to the Home Guard era during the Second World War. This beloved series, which originally aired from 1974 to 1976, was written by Harold Snoad and Michael Knowles, based on the television scripts by Jimmy Perry and David Croft. The show follows the misadventures of the Walmington-on-Sea Home Guard, a volunteer military organization that played a crucial role in the United Kingdom's defense during the war.The Story Behind Dad's Army"Dad's Army" was created by Jimmy Perry and David Croft, drawing from Perry's experiences in the Local Defence Volunteers (LDV, later known as the Home Guard). The television series, which ran from 1968 to 1977, was a huge success, leading to the creation of the radio series. The radio show was produced by John Dyas and featured a talented cast, including Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, and Clive Dunn.Key Characters and VoicesThe main cast includes: Arthur Lowe as Captain George Mainwaring John Le Mesurier as Sergeant Arthur Wilson Clive Dunn as Lance Corporal Jack Jones John Laurie as Private James Frazer Arnold Ridley as Private Charles Godfrey Ian Lavender as Private Frank Pike
Transcribe →TAKE IT FROM HERE - Balling the Jack - UK COMEDY
Nov 1, 202400:29:38Tap to summarizeWhether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "Take It From Here" offers a delightful blend of humor, satire, and cultural commentary. Join us as we revisit the world of "The Glums" and other beloved characters, and experience the comedic genius that has entertained generations. Welcome to "Take It From Here," a pioneering British radio comedy series that delighted audiences from 1948 to 1960. Broadcast by the BBC, this iconic program was crafted by the comedic talents of Frank Muir and Denis Norden. Known for its clever wit and memorable characters, "Take It From Here" set the standard for post-war radio comedy and continues to be celebrated for its innovative approach.The Story Behind Take It From Here"Take It From Here" was born from the collaboration between Frank Muir and Denis Norden, who were brought together by radio producer Charles Maxwell. The show starred the comedic trio of Jimmy Edwards, Dick Bentley, and Joy Nichols, later joined by June Whitfield and Alma Cogan. The series became famous for its segment "The Glums," which introduced audiences to a dysfunctional family that became a staple of British humor.Key Characters and VoicesThe main cast includes: Jimmy Edwards as the bombastic Pa Glum Dick Bentley as the hapless Ron Glum Joy Nichols and later June Whitfield as Eth, Ron's long-suffering fiancée Influence and Legacy"Take It From Here" played a significant role in shaping British comedy, influencing later shows like "Round the Horne" and contributing material to the "Carry On" films. The show's parody sketches and sharp humor resonated with audiences, both in the UK and internationally, and its legacy endures through re-broadcasts and recordings. Take It From Here British radio comedy Frank Muir Denis Norden Jimmy Edwards Dick Bentley Joy Nichols The Glums BBC radio shows Classic comedy Post-war humour Spotify podcasts Google search comedy series
Transcribe →HALLOWEEN DRACULA SPECTACLAR 4 OF 4
Oct 31, 202400:29:21Tap to summarizeWelcome to "Dracula," a classic radio drama adaptation of Bram Stoker's iconic novel. Originally broadcast by CBS Radio in 1938 as part of "The Mercury Theatre on the Air" series, this groundbreaking episode was directed and narrated by Orson Welles. The show follows the haunting tale of Count Dracula and his supernatural powers, bringing the classic horror story to life through the power of radio. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, "Dracula" offers a chilling and captivating listening experience. Join us as we delve into the world of Count Dracula and his supernatural powers, and experience the horror that has captivated audiences for generations. The Story Behind Dracula "Dracula" was the first episode of "The Mercury Theatre on the Air" series, broadcast on July 11, 1938. The show was a pioneering work in radio drama, featuring innovative sound effects and a talented cast, including Orson Welles as Dracula and Dr. Arthur Seward, George Coulouris as Jonathan Harker, and Elizabeth Farrell as Lucy Westenra.Key Characters and VoicesThe main cast includes: Orson Welles as Dracula and Dr. Arthur Seward George Coulouris as Jonathan Harker Elizabeth Farrell as Lucy Westenra Martin Gabel as Professor Van Helsing Ray Collins as Russian Captain Karl Swenson as The Mate Dracula Radio drama Bram Stoker Orson Welles The Mercury Theatre on the Air CBS Radio Classic horror 1938 radio shows Spotify podcasts Google search radio dramas HALLOWEEN Influence and Legacy "Dracula" has had a lasting impact on the horror genre, influencing numerous adaptations and interpretations of Bram Stoker's novel. The show's innovative use of sound effects and its atmospheric storytelling have made it a classic of radio drama.
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