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Radio/podcast addicts

R4 Extra Same Programmes Again and Again?

11 replies

Earthymama · 12/03/2014 14:24

I have listened R4 over many decades so I am aware that there will probably nothing on R4+ that I haven't heard before. I am happy with that as I have enjoyed so much of the output over the years. I am delighted to hear Hitch hikers Guide again.


However, in my favourite categories, Drama, Crime and Science Fiction and Fantasy am I right in thinking that programmes are drawn from a very restricted pool?

Terry Pratchett has written many books in the Discworld series but the same ones come round again and again.

Then Julie Enfield, Falco, VI Warschawski, Agnes Raisin, Ruth Rendell's work etc....over and over again.

But Stephen Fry's reading of Harry Potter, we never find that in the schedule.

I have tried to see when these programmes have been broadcast previously but can't find it from my phone.

Does anyone else agree or are you all to 'down with the kids' for this extra helping of R4? Smile

I think I will contact Feedback; anyone joining me?

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GrendelsMum · 12/03/2014 16:27

Yes, they're very restricted - they come up on about a 2 yearly cycle, I think. I reckon it's just how they keep the costs down.

What were you planning to say to Feedback?

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Earthymama · 13/03/2014 10:36

Sorry I was invaded by the grandchildren last night and then collapsed into bed!

I just wonder what restrictions are placed on the programme planners?
I do appreciate the vast variety of programmes on offer across R4 and R4+, but it is so frustrating when it's Falco The Silver Pigs AGAIN.
Much as I love Anton Lesser as the Roman PI, there are countless more adventures they could dramatise or read.
I know it is probably something to do with the rights for audiobooks but surely there is something in the archives rather than Paul Temple and Steve!

When it comes to SF and fantasy there are hundreds, nay thousands probably, of wonderful stories out there.

I am off to email Feedback; not on an outraged I pay my Licence Fee way but to ask for an explanation.

(I discovered 3 for £10 offer on audiobooks in The Works so 2 Terry Pratchetts and an Iain Banks for me while I clean up and decorate this weekend.)Grin

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GrendelsMum · 13/03/2014 10:44

Yes, it would be interesting to know what the restrictions are - my guess is very tight budgets and licensing? I have to admit that I too am fed up with The Silver Pigs.

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badasahatter · 13/03/2014 10:49

I adore R4 Listen Again, and I look forward to some repeats. I have the same favourite categories as yours Earthy and even I'm getting a bit fed up with some of the repeats. I love the Undone series, but I've heard that twice now. I'm sure it'll come up again. I love Anton Lesser's voice, but yes. Silver Pigs. Again?? And is radio really so expensive to produce? It would be nice to hear something new for a change!

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Earthymama · 13/03/2014 12:01

I have emailed Feedback saying very much as above but restricted to 1000 characters.
I might leave a voicemail?
Anyone else going to contact the lovely Roger too?

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badasahatter · 13/03/2014 16:21

I'll drop em a line. I really am getting a bit cheesed off with the same routine over and over and over and over!

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Earthymama · 13/03/2014 17:11

I am glad it's not just me!
On a positive note I love E F Benson, but this latest one was on recently.

What would you lot like to hear?

I would love to listen to all of Sara Paretsky, Sue Grafton, over time.
And Georgette Heyer!! Please!

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badasahatter · 15/03/2014 21:50

I'd like to hear more adaptations of Falco novels, rather than the ones they currently repeat over and over. Anton Lesser's voice is divine and I'd like to hear it more.

I'd love to see more current novels adapted. Patrick Ness, Kelley Armstrong and Kate Griffin books. I'm a bit of a sci-fi/fantasy fan. I like a bit of crime too and a good classic, when the time is right. In terms of the best voices, I'd love to hear David Tennant doing more, His Scottish accent is divine. James McAvoy was rather lovely on the Gaiman production too. I loved that, mainly because of him.

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Katiejon · 21/03/2014 23:57

I can't believe Rogue Male is on again!

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GrendelsMum · 22/03/2014 09:37

Oh yes, they must play Rogue Male every year!

I'd love Sue Grafton, more Sara Paretsky (but, selfishly, with her chicago accent toned down more as it's a little difficult to catch when you're listening with half and ear), and Georgette Heyer. I thought the Gaiman production was great - highlight of Christmas was making curtains and listening to the 3 episodes. Just MORE NEW STUFF. MORE! MORE!

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kim147 · 22/03/2014 20:10

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Message withdrawn at poster's request.

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