Marco Polo; Behind the scenes at Nutcracker; ...

In the second programme celebrating the arts highlights from 2014, John Wilson hears from Benedict Cumberbatch, Timothy Spall, Keira Knightley and Eddie Redmayne as they discuss the challenges of playing real life figures in film. Dolly Parton, Joan Baez, Iggy Pop and Emma Thomps ...  Show more

John Wilson talks to the people who have had exceptional years in the worlds of the arts, culture and entertainment in 2014, in the first of two special programmes.Carey Mulligan discusses making her west end debut in Skylight, and the thrill of taking to the stage after her many ...  Show more

Is Christmas an ancient ritual or was it invented by Dickens? Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland discuss the transformation of Christmas from public to private event and decide when it became a commercial rather than spiritual celebration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit p ...  Show more

German-Belgian border, Christmas Eve 1944. John McManus tells James Holland and Al Murray all about the surprising Christmas story of a family trying to survive, and an incredible reunion half a world away. As three American soldiers seek refuge with a civilian family, they hear ...  Show more

We hear from eye-witnesses to some classic moments in cinema history – from It’s a Wonderful Life to Satyajit Ray’s Apu trilogy via Studio Ghibli, the Sound of Music and Charlie Chaplin’s Great Dictator.

Plus, film critic Helen O’Hara tells us about the history of Christ ...

This 2018 episode takes a look at three creative works that have become staples of the Christmas season. All three of them have played a huge part in how people observe and celebrate Christmas in parts of the world, and they all had milestone birthdays that year. Learn more about ...  Show more