Equity has today, Monday, welcomed confirmation from BBC management that longform audio drama will remain a feature on BBC radio. The move follows widespread outcry at the BBC’s decision earlier this year to cut audio drama from Radio 3, with no firm plans at the time for the continuation of long form audio drama.
After campaigning from Equity and sister unions, the BBC yesterday (Sunday 30 March) confirmed that a monthly 90-minute play slot will be starting later in the spring on BBC Radio 4. The show will focus on new audio dramas and original adaptations of classic stage plays.
The news was announced at the annual BBC Audio Drama Awards ceremony at Broadcasting House in London by Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore.
Responding to the news, Equity General Secretary Paul W Fleming said: “The new commitment to long form audio drama on BBC radio is a win for Equity members and came about after significant campaigning. So many actors have benefitted from the unique platform that audio dramas provide; this is an important format for performers, writers and audiences alike.
“We hope the 90-minute audio drama slot on Radio 4 will go from strength to strength and provide opportunities for performers across the UK, in the true spirit of BBC public service broadcasting. We will continually campaign to protect audio drama and ensure there is always a place for it on the BBC.”
In January, Equity joined with the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain and the Society of Authors to launch a petition calling on Tim Davie, Director-General of the BBC, to reconsider these cuts and to save Audio Drama.
