Author:Carl Grose,Charles Barnecut,Amanda Lawrence
A surreal, dark comedy from BBC Radio 3's 'The Wire', by Cornish writer Carl Grose that was inspired by seeing a Johannesburg local newspaper headline about a farmer who hanged 49 donkeys from tree branches on his land. Originally broadcast 1 November 2008 and repeated 18 Jul 2009. In Grose's play, Stanley Bray, a Cornish farmer, is compelled to hang donkeys and his wheelchair-bound wife Joy is desperate to get out of the house. Their way of life is fast disappearing, the farm is bankrupt and this is Stanley's bizarre response. 'The Wire' is BBC Radio 3's showcase for works that push the boundaries of drama and narrative. '49 Donkeys Hanged' stars Charles Barnecut as Stanley Bray and Amanda Lawrence as Joy Bray. Also included in the cast are Sibusiso Mamba, Helen Longworth, John Canford, and the writer Carl Grose as himself. Directed by Claire Grove.
hilarious, inventive and anarchic
—— The TimesA beautifully written and very funny account of how a normal but very talented bloke who loves TV, comedy and films ended up a huge TV, comedy and film star. Truly heartwarming stuff
—— heatAn enjoyable romp through Pegg's first stabs at comedy and theatre. And for fans of Spaced, his rant at George Lucas for messing up his Star Wars legacy will be worth the cover price alone
—— News of the WorldExtremely funny ... As charming as the man himself!
—— GraziaFascinating ... an enjoyable read
—— ObserverA gleeful autobiography written with real wit and verve
—— ShortlistWhat happened to Moore is all here in harrowing detail
—— Mail on SundayThere are moments of laugh-out-loud humour
—— Scotland on SundayRena Fruchter reveals the untold story in a loving but unflinching portrait
—— Evening HeraldThe generosity of the family, especially Rena's long-suffering husband Brian, is deeply moving
—— Sunday ExpressAn unabashed eulogy to a man she was evidently devoted to
—— TelegraphClearly Fruchter had a huge affection for Moore but she knew his shortcomings
—— Scottish Sunday HeraldAn intelligent, honest and moving portrait
—— Songs of Praise MagazineThe answers are all here, neatly scattered through this mercifully mid-sized biog. Rena Fruchter, herself blessed with comedic skills, delivers you the Dud she knew
—— Manchester Evening NewsAn honest and moving account of his later years
—— Glasgow Herald