Hadrian’s Beard

Emperor Hadrian was eager to defend the outer reaches of the Roman Empire and repel attacks from the Barbarians.

So keen that he was determined to build a wall across Britain, sea to sea, just north of the great fort Vindolanda.

That physical legacy is still in part visible between Northumberland and Cumbria to this day.

This comedy play looks under the skin of the Emperor who broke with various traditions, not least growing a beard where all Roman leaders were previously clean-shaven; and his deep love of all things Grecian.

All does not go according to plan when he arrives and it seems that this brave 'soldier' is more troubled than first impressions suggest.

Written by David Reed

Emperor Hadrian ... Tony Gardner
Queen Bridget ... Mina Anwar

With The Penny Dreadfuls:

Humphrey Ker
David Reed
Thom Tuck

And Margaret Cabourn-Smith.

Prducer: Julia McKenzie

A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2019.