The hallowed radio show The Archers is celebrating 75 glorious years by stepping out of the studio and onto the stage. The Guardian’s food writer, an Ambridge obsessive, met the stars to find out more.
Meeting the Stars
Susie Riddell, who plays Tracy Horrobin, expressed her excitement: “It’s like a dream come true for me too! I never thought I’d see the day that I was interviewed by the Guardian. I’ve seen it in the Bull!” The Bull, a half-timbered pub on the village green, is a central location in the show.
Sunny Ormonde, who portrays Lilian Bellamy, highlighted the secret of the show’s success: “It’s the characters. The Archers is very, very much character-led. And I think the characters are brilliant.”
Radio Acting vs. Stage
Tim Bentinck, who has played David Archer since 1982, noted the unique nature of radio: “If there are 5 million listeners, then there are 5 million David Archers – and not one of them looks like me!” The actors are excited yet nervous about performing live, with Riddell admitting she’s an “absolute gurner” when playing Tracy.
“I’m slightly worried about people going, ‘What is she doing with her face?’ But I’m just going to have to gurn, otherwise Tracy’s voice isn’t going to come out right!” she laughed.
Behind the Scenes
Bentinck compared radio acting to being a mime artist: “As long as you can imagine you are there, the listener will believe that.” Riddell added, “I do believe in Ambridge. I know that’s weird, but it is a place that exists for me.”
The stage show will include a specially written episode set at the annual flower and produce show, along with a Bull pub quiz and a nightly Q&A. The actors are prepared for tough questions from dedicated fans.
Riddell recalled a listener who criticized Tracy, saying, “I was quite offended, because it’s like someone telling me I’m awful. Maybe I should separate myself a bit more from the character.”
Enduring Appeal
The Archers’ 75-year run is a testament to its character-driven storytelling. Ormonde summed it up: “All I’ve got to do is walk on stage, say ‘Hello darling’, do the laugh, and that’ll be it! I think it could get quite hysterical!”
The Archers: Live at 75 tour runs across the UK from 7 June to 26 November.
