In the pivotal moments of history the little man is inevitably written out of the history books. Whatever happened to Cleopatra's milkman, Einstein's postman, Michelangelo's model or Shakespeare's gardener? Just maybe there was more going on behind the scenes than we could ever imagine.

Writers Lucy Caldwell, Heidi Regan and Jessica Ransom, take us behind the scenes for an alternative look at some great historical moments through the eyes of some unexpected - and, until now - overlooked witnesses who were there too!

It's history - but not quite as we know it!

Maiden, Mother, Spinster, Saint
by Lucy Caldwell
Reader: Corrine Kempa

Being overshadowed by a sibling takes on a whole new meaning when your sister is a figure of national notoriety.

Pretty as a Picture
by Heidi Regan
Reader: Raphael Koeb

Beauty and truth collide when a young assistant accompanies a master painter on an important royal commission.

She Wore a White Dress
by Jessica Ransom
Reader: Julie Dray

Dressing a queen is a great responsibility, especially for her final public appearance.

Producer: Heather Larmour

Our afternoon readings this week take a look at some momentous moments in history from the perspective of some unexpected witnesses who were 'there too' but didn't quite make it into the history books.
Today's reading takes us to Tudor times where an eager young apprentice travels with a master painter on an important commission where he learns a valuable lesson about the politics of beauty and truth.

Raphael Koeb reads 'Pretty as a Picture' by Heidi Regan, producer Heather Larmour. Show less