The Company of Ten is taking to the airwaves in partnership with Radio Verulam

The Abbey Theatre-based drama company is collaborating with Radio Verulam as part of the Sunday Afternoon Classics programme with Matt Jones.

The first production of Abbey Theatre Audio Drama is during the 4pm to 6pm programme next Sunday, August 9, and will be a two-part adaptation of Dr Jeykll and Mr Hyde by Mark Waghorn.

That will be followed in the autumn by the first full series of plays written by the well-established CoT Writers’ Group, and performed by the company’s newly-formed Radio Troupe.

The shows will then be available free of charge in podcast form on the internet and on the Abbey Theatre website.

Recently-elected chair of the Company of Ten, Martin Goodman, has been a prime mover in the new partnership.

He said: “Radio drama is a hugely exciting opportunity for our members, a fantastic chance to engage with the wider community and enables us to demonstrate our range of talents to many more people.

“In order to produce podcasts, we needed to take advantage of Radio Verulam’s first class recording conditions and equipment. The station has a wonderful new sound studio, with all the special effects we might need, and highly trained technicians.”

He went on: “With an estimated audience of 10 to 20 thousand listeners, it is the perfect vehicle.”

Nick Hazell, chairman at Radio Verulam, said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with the Company of Ten, to bring their excellent work to a wider audience. Local content like this is what makes us different, a real part of the local community.”

The partnership could also be used for educational purposes. Martin explained: “For example, next spring we are putting on a production of Twelfth Night. We plan to bring together actors, academics and school students preparing for summer examinations for an on-air debate about Shakespeare and his portrayal of women in his plays”.

Martin is also extending an invitation to the public to visit the Abbey Theatre at Westminster Lodge from 11am to 4pm on September 13 for an open day.

He said: “We are throwing open our doors so that you can explore everything that our wonderful theatre has to offer. We will be promoting our new season, enticing new members, showcasing workshops, and giving tours of our facilities. Plus, Radio Verulam will be broadcasting live from the foyer as the day unfolds”.

For details go to the Abbey Theatre website on www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

The first part of Dr. Jeykll and Mr. Hyde will be broadcast on August 9 on Radio Verulam 92.6FM during the Sunday Classics programme from 4pm to 6pm.