BBC radio has a unique heritage when it comes to Shakespeare. Since 1923, when the newly formed company broadcast its first full-length play, generations of actors and producers have honed and perfected the craft of making Shakespeare to be heard.

Raging storms and rich, beautiful music combine to magical effect in this radio production of Shakespeare's allegorical last play, where mystical forces work to restore harmony and order to an estranged community.

The play is introduced by Richard Eyre, former Director of the Royal National Theatre, and the accompanying booklet includes a scene-by-scene synopsis, full character analysis, brief biographies of the leading actors and of Shakespeare himself, as well as an essay from the producer on their interpretation of the play.

Revitalised, original and comprehensive, this is Shakespeare for the new millennium.

Written By
William Shakespeare

FIRST KNOWN PERFORMANCE
1 November 1611

FIRST BBC RADIO BROADCAST
2LO
16 January 1925

FIRST BROADCAST OF THIS PRODUCTION
BBC Radio 3
7 October 2001