Published when the National Theatre turned 50 in 2013, Philip Ziegler's biography, based on previously unseen letters and diaries, tells the story of Laurence Olivier as he developed his craft, focusing on his career path from early school days through rep theatre to Hollywood, before returning to triumph in his greatest role ever, as the first director of the National Theatre.

Episode 3:
Olivier goes from strength to strength at the Old Vic and makes his breakthrough on the big screen with Wuthering Heights followed by Henry V - just as war breaks out in Europe.

Reader: Toby Jones

Producer: Clive Brill
A Pacificus production for BBC Radio 4. Show less