Hands Off the Classics
In the 17th century Troilus and Cressida was produced with all the dirty bits cut out. In the 18th, King Lear had a happy ending. In the 19th century the classics were brazenly cut in half. In our own century we take a scalpel to the classic rather than a hatchet. Nevertheless a fascinating debate rages over the border line between interpretation and vandalism.
Tonight's programme includes
John Barton , Peter Brook , Terry Hands , Alan Howard , Bernard Levin , Ian McKellen , Jonathan Miller and members of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
One of the finest arts documentaries I've seen. (TIMES EDUCATIONAL SUPPLEMENT) Essential viewing ... (TIME OUT) Producers DENNIS MARKS and ALAN YENTOB