Genesis and Production of the First Radio Drama on ‘Don Quixote’ by BBC in 1947

Abstract

In 1947, BBC produces the first radio drama on Don Quixote to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Cervantes’ birth. Released in Spain and Latin America in 27 chapters, BBC defined it as “the most ambitious project ever carried out.” The goal was to enhance BBC reputation in Spain. The radio play had the participation of actors from Radio Madrid, Spanish exiles in London and Latin American professionals. BBC surrounded with experts to adapt Cervantes narrative to radio language; deal with Spanish accents diversity; and compose music, which accompanied this radio version. The Quixote of BBC spread Cervantes’ work throughout all Spanish-speaking countries and promoted the production of other Quixotes within the radio in Spain.

Keywords

• radioteatro
• radio
• BBC
• don Quijote