Pericles (BBC Radio 3 Drama On 3)

Shakespeare's romantic comedy offers strong vocal characterizations by notable classical actors. Sir John Gielgud brings the narrator Gower to life with articulation and clarity, and Nigel Terry excels as Pericles. The other 20 cast members maintain dramatic energy for the entire play. Pericles knows the answer to the king's riddle, but revealing it will endanger the hero, so he runs away. The play tells of the young man's tour of the world and his experiences, which include abduction by pirates, visits to brothels, and the loss of his own daughter, until, of course, all is resolved. It's a pleasure to hear Shakespeare performed with such clarity and focus. M.R.E. (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine