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'Tis Pity She's a Whore

By: John Ford
Narrated by: Jessie Buckley, full cast, Damien Molony
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Summary

A visceral, revamped BBC radio production of John Ford's classic play about a doomed love between a brother and sister

With its shocking portrayal of incest, intrigue and murder, this powerful Jacobean revenge drama scandalised audiences when it was first performed in the 1620s, and is still controversial today.

When siblings Giovanni and Annabella embark on a passionate affair, Annabella falls pregnant with her brother's child. Knowing she must marry to protect her honour, she chooses one of the many suitors clamouring for her hand - but when her secret is revealed, the lovers are caught up in a bloody chain of events that culminate in a poisoning, a blinding, a stabbing and a brutal massacre...

Reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet, but darker and more twisted, John Ford's 17th-century tale of sex and death is restyled for radio in Pauline Harris's compassionate, disturbing adaptation. Intercut with the music of Jimi Hendrix and Nick Cave, it also features an original song, 'In Deep', composed by Jules Maxwell and sung by Jessie Buckley, Indira Varma, and Abby Andrews. The play is introduced by Professor Emma Smith from Hertford College, Oxford.

Cast
Annabella - Jessie Buckley
Giovanni - Damien Molony
Signor Florio - Niall Buggy
Putana - Fenella Woolgar
Friar Bonaventura - Oliver Cotton
Lord Soranzo - Matthew Pidgeon
Vasques - Enzo Cilenti
Hippolita - Indira Varma
Grimaldi - Gary Duncan
Cardinal - Neil McCaul
Officer - Adam Fitzgerald
Dorando - Tayla Kovacevic-Ebong

Adapted and directed by Pauline Harris

First broadcast BBC Radio 3, 7 January 2018

©2020 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2020 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd
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What listeners say about 'Tis Pity She's a Whore

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A Great Reimagined Classic

Ford’s tale of forbidden love and incest gets a modern makeover with contemporary music, however the language and shocking contents of the play remain intact. Perhaps more accessible but still a struggle to follow the plot right through.

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Absolutely fantastic

The blend of modern music with old English suits this work perfectly. I was somewhat familiar with the work, listening again to this superb production brings home the power of the writing in a completely new way. Highly recommended for English literature lovers and those who appreciate the fullness of the English language.

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Loved this performance

Giovanni was compelling, Annabella earnest, Vasquez wicked, and the Friar conflicted. Enjoyed all the family being Irish, twas am inspired touch. Original Music well complimented the tale.

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