Christmas has come and gone. So what better way of spending those purgatory days between Christmas and New Year than with some short trips from Big Finish. At this time of year we could all do with Peace in Our Time, a new First Doctor story performed by Peter Purves.
The latest Big Finish short trip sees a return to the early days of Doctor Who. Peter Purves, a voice of authority and experience from that era of our favourite show, is always a pleasure to listen to. The story itself is not necessarily bold or futuristic. Stolen plans from the admiralty. No androids or alien monstrosities. Instead, a more traditional historical adventure is explored. The entry point may be innocuous but the story is gripping. But will there be Peace in Our Time by its conclusion?
Like unwrapping the satsuma from your Christmas stocking, so Peace in Our Time carefully peels away the story for the listener. Initial assumptions are turned on their head. When you think you have a handle on it all, the narrative changes direction. The ripples of one action, impacting on the rest of history are frequently explored in Doctor Who and science fiction generally. However, few are presented with such clarity as they are here. Huge kudos must therefore be awarded to writer Una McCormack.
Eloquently composed prose does require equally skilful handling. McCormack’s story is afforded the justice it warrants in the hands of capable director Lisa Bowerman and narrator Peter Purves. The final result is a solid tale from a fascinating period of history. A story delivered with precision and impressive lucidity it demands your attention.
Big Finish concluding their 20th year on a high note!
Synopsis
A family meal, interrupted. Government papers, stolen. Social etiquette, ignored.
Ruby Watkins is the over-worked and unappreciated maid of the Gledhill family. Answering the door midway through serving dinner, she finds Mr Gledhill’s junior at the War Office, Mr Taylor, is here to see him on urgent business. For some unknown reason, he’s brought a doctor with him…
Credits
- Narrator: Peter Purves
- Cover Artist: Mark Plastow
- Director: Lisa Bowerman
- Executive Producers: Jason Haigh-Ellery and Nicholas Briggs
- Music: Richard Fox @ FoxYason Studios
- Producer: Alfie Shaw
- Script Editor: Alfie Shaw
- Sound Design: Richard Fox @ FoxYason Studios
- Written by Una McCormack
