Antoinia Fraser The Heroine

SANWAL

Saturday-Night Theatre Sat 24th Jan 1976, 20:30 on BBC Radio 4 FM The Heroine by Antonia Fraser with Maxine Audley In 1644, in the English Civil War, the Countess of Derby held Lathom House for the King during a three months' siege, while her husband was away at the war. This play is based on that historic siege, and tells a story of heroism - of more than one kind. Producer Betty Davies   Charlotte, Countess of Derby: Maxine Audley Lady Katherine Stanley, her elder daughter..: Patricia Quinn Mary, Countess of Strafford, her younger daughter: Rosalind Shanks Alice, Lady Girlington, a neighbour: Jane Wenham Mistress Judith Parker, an old servant:   Gladys Spencer Susan Jefferies, a soldier's wife: Carole Boyd Other parts played by MICHAEL SHANNON, MICHAEL DEACON and ANTHONY SMEE Historical drama. The year is 1644 during the First English Civil War. In her husband's absence Charlotte Countess of Derby defends her home, Lathom House, with a mere 300 men against siege. In a houseful of women Lady Derby becomes an inspiration to courage. What motivates these women? Patriotism, pride, greed, love? This is a fascinating look at some of the reasons for carrying on war. It is also an argument that women, tragically, can be just as ruthless as men.

This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.