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Front Row: Mark Thomas on his father's love of opera; Bernard of Hollywood's images of Marilyn

Mark Thomas on his father's love of opera; Bernard of Hollywood's images of Marilyn

31/07/2012

BBC Radio 4 - Front Row, Mark Thomas on his father's love of opera; Bernard of Hollywood's images of Marilyn

Mark Thomas on his father's love of opera; Bernard of Hollywood's Marilyn Monroe photos.

John Wilson meets comedian Mark Thomas, whose show Bravo Figaro! is inspired by his father's love of opera. Susan Bernard recalls her father's renowned photos of Marilyn Monroe.

With John Wilson. 

Comedian Mark Thomas discusses his latest show Bravo Figaro, which reveals how his father, a builder, cultivated a love of opera. After his father was diagnosed with a degenerative disease, Mark Thomas put together this very personal show, which has involved taking opera singers to perform in his father's bungalow.

To mark the 50th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe's death, Susan Bernard discusses the images of the star taken by her father - the renowned photographer known as Bernard of Hollywood. These range from early shots of Norma Jean, through to the famous Seven Year Itch subway image. She remembers meeting Monroe, and her father's relationship with the troubled star. 

Andrew Lloyd Webber predicted that this summer would be a difficult one for the capital's theatres, and already some are finding it hard to fill their seats. Leading producer Nica Burns discusses the situation so far, and possible solutions. 

To mark the Olympics, the BBC - in partnership with The Scottish Poetry Library - has selected and recorded a poem representing every country taking part. Each is read by a native of that country who lives here in Britain. Every night during the Olympics, Front Row features one of the poems.

Producer Nicki Paxman.

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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Mark Thomas on his father's love of opera; Bernard of Hollywood's images of Marilyn

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