Revolution

The French Revolution was one of the most far-reaching social and political upheavals in modern history.

It spanned 10 years, involving the execution of the King, collapse of monarchy and slaughter of thousands at the guillotine.

Comedy trio The Penny Dreadfuls attempt to tell the epic story of the Revolution in one hour, with jokes.

Starring Richard E Grant and Sally Hawkins.

Maximilien Robespierre was the dictatorial architect of the Reign of Terror, who sent thousands to their death. Marie-Therese was the 16 year old daughter of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI.

Marie-Therese was incarcerated for three years by the revolutionaries. When she was locked up her father, mother, aunt and little brother were also with her.

After her father was executed, the rest of the family were moved to another part of the tower and Marie-Therese was kept in solitary confinement.

It's recorded that Robespierre visited Marie-Therese at one point in the tower but there's no historical record of that conversation. This play is that conversation.

Robespierre ...... Richard E Grant
Therese ...... Sally Hawkins

Written by and co-starring Humphrey Ker, David Reed and Thom Tuck

With Margaret Cabourn-Smith.

Producer: Julia McKenzie

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in July 2011.