Monday sees the performance of a ‘Relaxed Prom’ at the Royal Albert Hall, offering an informal environment for children, young people and adults with autism, sensory and communication impairments, learning disabilities and other challenges. The Prom will feature the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and its ensemble BSO Resound, comprising six disabled musicians led by conductor James Rose who has cerebral palsy. James Rose and violin and viola player Siobhan Clough discuss the practicalities of conducting and performing ahead of their first major UK performance.

The shortlist for this year’s Edinburgh Comedy Awards has been announced. Journalist Stephen Armstrong is the chair of the judging panel and joins Kirsty to discuss the selection and the main themes explored by comedians at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe. The winner will be announced on Saturday 25 August.

What happens in the brain when we are inspired? Professor of Neuroscience Paul Howard–Jones explains, as part of our Inspire season.

Novelist and nature writer Melissa Harrison talks about her latest book, All Among the Barley, a story of an adolescent farmer’s daughter in 1930s Britain. In the course of a long hot summer a sophisticated stranger arrives in the village but she is not what she seems and her presence has a shattering effect on the lives of the girl and her family.

Presenter: Kirsty Lang
Producer: Rebecca Armstrong Show less