About this episode

This episode explores two historical dramas set before the Second World War, focusing on political themes and the impact of ordinary conversations on history.

This episode, we're stepping back into the years before the Second World War with two gripping historical dramas. One revisits the assassination that ignited the First World War, while the other imagines a pivotal royal visit that helped shape the alliance between Britain and America. Packed with political intrigue, sharp humour and outstanding performances, these productions remind us that history is often decided by ordinary conversations - and extraordinary choices. Archduke Could three hungry young men really change the course of history? Rajiv Joseph's brilliantly dark comedy Archduke takes us to Belgrade in 1914, where three inexperienced revolutionaries are handed a sandwich, a pistol and a mission that will alter the twentieth century forever. What follows is a witty, unsettling and unexpectedly funny examination of radicalisation, youthful idealism and the terrifying consequences of political violence. Directed by Lyndsey Turner and featuring an inventive design by Es Devlin, the European premiere boasts a terrific cast led by Chris Walley, Abraham Popoola, Stanley Morgan, Janice Connolly and Marc Wootton. We discuss how the play balances absurd comedy with historical…

People in this episode

Hosts: Natalie Maher, Darren Murphy

Topics covered

• historical drama
• political intrigue
• comedy
• radicalisation
• youthful idealism
• political violence

Keywords

• Archduke
• Springwood
• historical drama
• political intrigue
• comedy
• radicalisation
• youthful idealism

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