Beacon Hill - Series 1

Episodes 1-4

By: Jerry Robbins

Narrated by: Jerry Robbins, Shana Dirik, James Tallach, Cynthia Pape, Nolan Murphy, Rachel Padell, Natalie Vatcher, Colin Budzyna

New England, 1898: The Prescott Family is Boston. In that bygone golden age, Patriarch Charles presides over both his shipping line and family with a sure and strong hand, while wife Jocelyn is feeling her authority usurped by her powerfully minded mother-in-law, Augusta. Their children, Marietta, Aurora, and Barton find themselves trying to make their way in a constantly changing world - filled with social upheaval and technological advancements. The Prescotts' house staff goes about their duties under the supervision of the taciturn butler, Williams. Effortlessly integrating historical events into its narrative (including the second running of the American Marathon - later renamed the Boston Marathon), and filled with intrigue, warmth, and drama writ large, the Colonial Radio Theatre invites you into the Prescott household for an evocative, unforgettable depiction of Boston life as lived by those who set the pace. Williams has set an extra place for you at the table - won't you join us on Beacon Hill?

©2013 Jerry Robbins (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Stop With This One

What would have made Beacon Hill - Series 1 better?

This is by far the best of these series of productions. The second, third and fourth progressively devolve into moral depravity. It became a 21st century drama set in the late 19th century. The society the writer depicts is in no way an adequate representation of the moral climate of that era.

What was most disappointing about Jerry Robbins’s story?

The characters continually make self destructive choices with predictable consequences. The listener is hurled from one to another before having no time to recuperate between them.

Which character – as performed by the narrators – was your favorite?

None

You didn’t love this book... but did it have any redeeming qualities?

This first in the series was somewhat pleasant; however, it ends with a cliffhanger.

Any additional comments?

I regret losing my 4 credits on this production and those that followed.