BBC Radio 4 - The Saturday Play - 2005-03-12
The price of light by Hilary Mantel
128K
This is a true story set at the Viennese court at the end of the eighteenth century. Maria Theresa von Paradis was the daughter of a court official. A musical prodigy, she lost her sight in early childhood. In an attempt to cure her blindness, her father and mother approached Anton Mesmer, of the Faculty of Medicine - still a young man, not yet famous, but already controversial.
Mesmer stopped all the treatments and took her into his own house. Soon she began to regain her vision. But as she did, her musical talent seemed to deteriorate. A public and scientific scandal ensued. Forced out of Vienna, Mesmer went to France, became famous and a by-word for quackery. Maria Theresa lost her sight, remaining blind for the rest of her life and regained her musical abilities.
Maria ............... Teresa Gallagher
Mesmer ............... Michael Maloney
Von Paradis ............. Neil Dudgeon
Madame Von Paradis ...... Lia Williams
Empress ................. Eleanor Bron
Anna Mesmer ............... Jenny Howe
Marie Antoinette ......... Emily Bruni
Dr Stoerk .................. John Rowe
King Louis .............. Paul Panting
Harpsichordist ......... Robin Bigwood
Directed by Marilyn Imrie
Replies
This one is excellent!!!!
Ooh, Eleanor Bron! She is always a treat. Thanks for finding these treasures and sharing them.
This was even better than I expected. Excellent acting all around, and a good script.
What a fascinating story ! Thanks..
Sounds interesting, thanks
You're welcome! ------------ Rick