We Speak Entertainment
Radio 4 presents the first radio dramatisation of Maya Angelou’s autobiographies
Radio 4 will broadcast dramatisations of six of Maya Angelou’s extraordinary autobiographies over 2018 and into 2019 in what would have been her 90th birthday year.
Starting on 18 June with I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, the dramas will feature three Maya Angelous at different stages in her life, beginning in childhood with Indie Gjesdal playing the young Maya and continuing with Pippa Bennett-Warner playing the adult Maya. Angelou’s remarkable works have been dramatised by award-winning playwrights Patricia Cumper, Janice Okoh and Winsome Pinnock.
The cast also includes Nikki Amuka-Bird (Luther, Denial) as Mrs Flowers, Cecilia Noble (Nine Night, Black Mirror, Call The Midwife) as Momma, Paapa Essiedu (Hamlet/Kiri) as Bailey, Samuel Anderson (Dr Who), Ellen Thomas (EastEnders, Humans), Danny Sapani (Black Panther, The Crown), Sope Dirisu (Coriolanus, Black Mirror) and Roshawn Hewitt.
Maya Angelou’s incredible life encapsulates the story of African American struggle and liberation. Over six series – the six instalments of her autobiography – a crucial period of black history is revealed, and a period of change that would alter attitudes, culture and society irrevocably.
Her rich and diverse life sees her survive racial and physical abuse growing up as a child in the deep South, working as a prostitute and pimp, dancer and singer; to poet and writer and working directly in civil rights.
Offering unique insight into three decades of history, from the 1930s to the late 1960s, the autobiographies cover pivotal moments in the Civil Rights movement and shine a light on a period of change that altered attitudes, culture and society.
She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, several books of poetry, and was credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows spanning over 50 years. She won three Grammys, a Tony, a National Book Award, and was nominated for a Pulitzer. Maya Angelou would go on to be the first poet in over thirty years to make an inaugural recitation during Bill Clinton’s ceremony and would later receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom (the highest US civilian award) from Barack Obama.
Jeremy Howe, Radio 4’s Commissioning Editor for Drama and Fiction, says: “The books that make up the life and times of Maya Angelou are some of the best, most beautiful and haunting pieces of autobiography I have ever read. They run the gamut from life affirming to tragedy and back again with a tone that is a joyous, direct and searingly honest, and are an extraordinary portrait of 20th century black America. To turn these wonderful books into drama we have assembled the A team: between them Patricia Cumper, Winsome Pinnock and Janice Okoh have won awards aplenty and have written hours of wonderful radio drama. Radio 4’s celebration of Maya Angelou is an event worth waiting for.”
In addition to the dramatisations, Radio 4 is working with Aardman to create an animation in celebration of Maya Angelou’s life and work which will be available via the Radio 4 website.
In an era where music often races to keep up with the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, Official Jones has crafted a piece that invites listeners to pause, reflect, and rediscover the timeless beauty of romance. His latest single, “Beautiful Twilight,” is more than just a song; it’s a universal anthem that transcends age and ethnicity, offering a gentle reminder of the elegance and depth that romance can bring to our lives.
Reviving Romance in the Modern Age
“Beautiful Twilight” seeks to rekindle the embers of romance that many feel have been dimmed by the hustle and bustle of contemporary living. Official Jones, with his signature style, has woven together a melody that is both soothing and evocative, creating an atmosphere where love can flourish once again. The song’s gentle harmonies and heartfelt lyrics serve as a call to embrace the softer, more tender moments of life, encouraging listeners to connect with their emotions and with each other.
A Melody for All
One of the standout features of “Beautiful Twilight” is its universal appeal. Official Jones has masterfully crafted a composition that resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s universal themes of love, reflection, and beauty speak to the human experience, making it relatable to anyone who has ever felt the stirrings of affection or the longing for connection.
The music transcends cultural and generational boundaries, uniting listeners in a shared appreciation for the art of romance. Whether you’re a young couple just beginning your journey together or someone who has spent decades nurturing a deep partnership, “Beautiful Twilight” offers a soundtrack to your most cherished memories and aspirations.
Elevating the Mind of Gentlemen
In addition to its romantic themes, “Beautiful Twilight” serves as an invitation for gentlemen to elevate their minds and embrace a more refined approach to love and relationships. Official Jones encourages men to reflect on the qualities that define a true gentleman—kindness, patience, and respect—and to incorporate these values into their daily lives.
The song is a reminder that romance is not just about grand gestures, but also about the quiet moments of understanding and support that build lasting bonds. By listening to “Beautiful Twilight,” gentlemen are inspired to cultivate a deeper emotional intelligence and to approach their relationships with sincerity and grace.
A Timeless Classic in the Making
“Beautiful Twilight” is poised to become a timeless classic, a song that will be cherished for generations to come. Its universal message and captivating melody ensure that it will remain a staple in playlists around the world, a testament to the enduring power of love and music.
Official Jones has not only created a song but a movement—a call to bring romance back into our lives and to elevate our minds and spirits. As we listen to “Beautiful Twilight,” we are reminded of the beauty that exists in the world and within ourselves, encouraging us to embrace each day with an open heart and a renewed sense of wonder.
In a world that often forgets the importance of slowing down and savoring the moment, “Beautiful Twilight” stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, inviting us all to rediscover the magic of romance and the joy of being truly present with the ones we love.
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