Abstract Crook’s article describes the development of British radio drama from the 1920s to the present day, with a special focus on the role of the BBC. Since the programmes were, originally, rather elitist and intended to educate their audience, radio soaps were not broadcast by the BBC until the mid-1940s. On the other hand, “[the BBC’s] commitment to high cultural standards established a more qualitative tradition of writing, direction, production and performance in Britain.” According to Crook, there was a “golden age” of British radio drama during the 50s, 60s and 70s. He points out that many famous authors started as radio playwrights; among them Tom Stoppard, Caryl Churchill, and Hanif Kureishi. Crook deplores recent BBC programming politics which resembles that of commercial radio stations more and more. Thus, “the radio drama production environment [has become] insecure and inconsistent.” |
Crook, Tim  Tim Crook works in the Media and Communications Department at Goldsmiths' College, which is part of the University of London. He teaches Creative Radio and Radio Journalism on the MA programme. His publications and research activities focus on the history of radio drama and radio journalism as well as media ethics and laws.
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