Product Description

Round the Horne was the radio phenomenon of the 60s and remains a bestselling series today. One of the creators behind it all, Barry Took, takes a look back at the history of the programme and relives some of its highlights. This is a fascinating and humorous account from the man who was at the heart of the series.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #136352 in Books
• Published on: 2005-02-07
• Released on: 2005-02-07
• Format: Audiobook
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 3
• Binding: Audio CD

Customer Reviews

A 'bona' account of this marvellous show
This cassette, written and read by the late Barry Took, is both a welcome reminder of the 1960s show Around The Horne for some, and a perfect introduction for others, who, like myself, weren't even thought of when the shows were broadcast.

Barry Took, accompanied by exerts from the show, explains the history of the show, right from its predessor, Beyond Our Ken, which he wrote with Eric Merriman. He goes on to describe specific examples of when they were told to reign in their outrageous humour and talks of each of the performers individually, describing their contributions to the show.

For hardcore fans of Round The Horne or 'younguns' eager to learn about this popular comedy, like myself, this is an absolute gem, and especially touching now that Barry Took has sadly passed away.

Three hours of laughs
For any real fan of the show this set of 3 discs is definitely worthwhile. It consists of (the late) Barry Took: a) Telling the story of the shows development, and his/Marty Feldmans involvement, b) Outlining how the regular characters came to be developed, and c) Providing some history about the cast. All of this is illustrated by various classic clips from the show, including some I had never heard or had forgotten. Drags a little in places (mainly towards the end), hence the 4 star rating instead of 5, but still a good one for the enthusiasts.

the nostalgia of Round the Horne
For those who remember creasing up to the broad and original humour of Round the Horne in the second half of the 1960s this pack of three CDs is a must. Barry Took wrote, or co-wrote all the shows and he presents many great excerpts but more importantly, a host of fascinating information about the actors and how the show was developed and produced. These discs are both entertaining and interesting if you have any connection with the great BBC humour of the post war years. Furthermore, echoes of the Kenneths Horne and Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden and others are a delight to revisit. Alas, all gone now except for Bill Pertwee (Dad's Army) who still graces us with his presence.