The National Theatre of Brent
Four BBC Radio Productions
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The National Theatre of Brent
Pre-order for $42.54
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By:
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Patrick Barlow
About this listen
Four satirical spoof shows from the multi-award-winning National Theatre of Brent
The National Theatre of Brent is a two-man company founded in 1980 and led by Patrick Barlow as his comic alter ego, Artistic Director and Chief Executive Desmond Olivier Dingle. Helping him to realise his ambitious artistic visions is his hapless assistant, a role that has been performed by a succession of actors including Jim Broadbent (as Wallace) and Robert Austin (as Bernard). Collected together for the first time, here are three of the comic troupe’s epic productions, plus a bonus historical parody starring Dawn French.
All the World’s a Globe – The chaotic and comedic story of life on Earth is presented with a bang by Desmond and his slow-witted sidekick Wallace (Jim Broadbent), aided by announcer Peter Barker and guest stars Juliet Stevenson and Ben Kingsley. Winner of the Sony Award for Best Comedy, this majestic eight-part series leads us through the definitive history of mankind – from lemur to cosmonaut.
The Greatest Story Ever Told – Celebrated thespian Desmond Olivier Dingle presents his hilarious and surprisingly moving interpretation of Christ's Passion. With Desmond as Jesus, and Wallace as everybody else.
Desmond Olivier Dingle’s Compleat Life and Works of William Shakespeare – 'The Royal Dingle Company' embarks on a voyage around the Bard, with the help of special guests Richard E Grant, Juliet Stevenson, Harriet Walter, Brian Cox, Louise Lombard, John Barrowman and Lionel Blair. Over six sparkling episodes, they tackle his comedies, verse and tragedies; wreak havoc in Stratford-upon-Avon; search for Shakespeare’s true identity and re-enact great Shakespearean moments from cinematic history.
Joan of Arc, and How She Became a Saint – Joan is a country girl more inclined to stay with her herd of cows than venture forth and rescue France. But she has no choice but to follow her destiny, and guided by her guardian angels, St Catherine and St Margaret, she stands up to fight for what she knows is right. Dawn French stars as the Maid of Orléans, with a full cast including Jim Broadbent, Anne Reid, Maggie Steed and Kevin Eldon.
© 2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. ? 2026 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd