BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

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Americana

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An insider's guide to the stories and people shaping the USA today

From coast to coast, an insider's guide to the stories and people shaping the USA today

Americana: 19/12/2010

19/12/2010

BBC Radio 4 - Americana, 19/12/2010

Washington DC's 'Mayor For Life' Marion Barry on the real truths about the capital.

Washington DC's 'Mayor For Life' Marion Barry on the real truths about the capital. And it's not quite Christmas yet, but don't tell that to the citizens of North Pole, Alaska.

For a better understanding of Washington DC beyond the Capitol, Matt Frei travels to Ward 8, in the south east quadrant of the city. He talks to DC's political legend, Marion Barry. The four-term Mayor of the '70s, '80s and '90s explains some of the current divisions the city faces and talks about his hopes for the District's future.

Hours north and west of Washington DC, Americana calls on North Pole Mayor Doug Isaacson. He survived a recall vote earlier this year, now he has to make it through the holiday season working next door to Santa's headquarters.

In the melting pot of the USA, there are many holiday traditions but nearly every major city hosts a production - or two - of the Nutcracker ballet. Alastair Macaulay, Englishman and Chief Dance Critic for the New York Times, explains his current effort to uncover what it is about Tchaikovsky's work that Americans seem to adore.

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

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19/12/2010

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