War and Peace

BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation

By: Leo Tolstoy

Narrated by: Paterson Joseph, John Hurt, Simon Russell Beale, Alun Armstrong, Lesley Manville, Stephen Campbell Moore, Roger Allam

Paterson Joseph, John Hurt, Lesley Manville and Harriet Walter are among the cast of BBC Radio 4's epic full-cast dramatisation. Adapted for radio by Timberlake Wertenbaker, Leo Tolstoy's epic story follows the fortunes of three Russian aristocratic families during the Napoleonic War. First broadcast on New Year's Day 2015, the drama also features Alun Armstrong, Natasha Little, David Calder, Phoebe Fox, Sam Reid and Joanna David. Duration: 10 hours approx.

©2017 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2017 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Critic reviews

"Tolstoy's imagined world is recreated on air brilliantly by the extraordinary cast." ( The Spectator)

An excellent adaptation of a classic

Have tried to listen to War and Peace, but, it's rather long. The radio drama format makes it easy to follow, and using the framing device of letters and such with the children and others was a brilliant move. All the cast is in fine form, and I don't mind Denisov being played by a Scottish actor.

Amazing

Well preformed. I appreciate the actors clear articulation and command of the material. A joy to listen to.

Awesome dramatization of War and Peace!

This is a terrific work by BBC Radio 4! Superb!
The story in itself is one that keeps the listener hooked and reveals the greatness of Leo Tolstoy, but the dramatization adds a theatrical element that enhances the whole experience. One really feels that is in the trenches fighting alongside the Russian troops.
I loved it!

Engrossing

I tried to read War and Peace a few times but never stayed with it until this performance. The description of war were amazing- you really felt that you were on the battlefield.
I highly recommend.

Best of the best

This epic novel brilliantly performed. Very touching and I was moved to tears many times.