Christmas Miracle on Brighton Pier
Can Angel Eustace on his last day of service save the planet and heal the nation's ley lines by convincing William McFadden that his life is worth living? By Jonathan Holloway.
Tim McInnerny, Mark Benton, Paul Ready and Emma Cunniffe star in Jonathan Holloway’s homage to Philip Van Doren Stern’s short story, The Greatest Gift, which became the basis for Frank Capra’s award-winning movie, It's a Wonderful Life.
It’s Christmas Eve and The Boss - father of all angels - has gathered together his flock in heaven. They are remembering the year 2023, known as the Year of the Dying Ley Lines, when the fate of humankind and Earth depended upon Eustace, an undistinguished angel on his last day of service.
His final task was to save William McFadden who, on Christmas Eve at the crack of dawn in Brighton, had stood on a Ley Line and decided he no longer wanted to live.
Only by convincing William that his life was worth living could these vital ancient powers be restored.
The past, present and alternate futures collide in this magical drama.
Cast:
The Boss - Tim McInnerny
Eustace - Mark Benton
William McFadden - Paul Ready
Ellen - Emma Cunniffe
Bob - Ben Crowe
All other parts were played by members of the cast.
Producer: Karen Rose
Sound design: David Thomas
Production coordinator: Sarah Tombling
Executive producer: Rosalynd Ward
Recorded on location in Brighton and Hove
A Sweet Talk production for Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4
Last on
Broadcast
- Christmas Day 2023 16:00Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4
Opening Lines
John Yorke unpacks the themes behind the stories in Radio 4's weekend afternoon dramas.
The Shakespeare Sessions
Immerse yourself in Shakespeare’s world