Michael Spicer: Before Next Door

Original version

BBC Radio 4 FM

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What happens when a socially awkward part-time comedian becomes an internet sensation?

What happens when a socially awkward and neurotic part-time comedian becomes a global internet sensation?

What happens when a socially awkward and neurotic part-time comedian becomes a global internet sensation? Michael Spicer: Before Next Door charts Michael's real-life progress - sort of - as his Room Next Door videos amass tens of millions of views online and win him acclaim for his comedy, at last.

BBC Radio 4 LW

Michael Spicer: Before Next Door: Series 2: Two Lines in Mason Square

Two Lines in Mason Square

Series 2

BBC Radio 4 - Michael Spicer: Before Next Door, Series 2, Two Lines in Mason Square

Should Michael save his colleagues from a corporate wolf or leap aboard the showbiz train?

With a TV casting and a tour in the offing, Michael’s bosses are questioning his commitment just as the firm is facing a hostile takeover. Should he stay or should he go now?

Michael’s sold out live show is approaching but Roberta’s secret plans for a tour have backfired. The comedy promoters announced the dates without telling her and now Michael’s bosses are furious. The company is also facing a takeover by a corporate sleaze ball.

On the plus side, Michael is cast in a big Netflix period drama. It’s only two lines but he gets to sport a significant moustache and work with stars like Blake Brooks (Mathew Horne). 

With the spotlight on him, Michael is asked to do a ludicrous social media challenge for charity, making him question whether he is suited to a life of frivolousness and insincerity. 

As the stress of the live show churns Michael’s stomach, Blake Brooks goes all ‘ghost of Christmas past, present and future’ diverting him from Roberta’s grand plan for comedy superstardom. Will Michael succumb to office life forever or will he see that going on a live tour in 2020 is the best way to end the series?

Performers: Michael Spicer with Ellie Taylor, Joanna Neary, Greig Johnson, Jason Forbes, Alison Ward, Peter Curran and Mathew Horne. 

Writer: Michael Spicer 
Producer: Matt Tiller 

A Starstruck and Tillervision production for BBC Radio 4

Michael Spicer: Before Next Door: Series 2

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

Office bod by day, Room Next Door Man by night. His road to fame is paved with anxiety.

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Michael Spicer: Before Next Door

Series 2

Two Lines in Mason Square

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