BADGERS IN MY VEST/PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST AS A YOUNG DOG

A full-cast performs the frustrating play Badgers in My Vest, based on Thomas's real struggle with writer's block and alcoholism during WWII. The other five stories, by Thomas himself, grasp the quaint and brave intensity of Welsh folk in harrowing times. These extraordinary short stories are startling with their dark humor. "Patricia Edith and Arnold" is read Sian Phillips; "A Visit to Grandpa's" is read by Geraint Morgan, "Extraordinary Little Cough" is read by Iestyn Jones, "The Followers" is read by William Thomas, and "A Story" is read by Matthew Rhys. All these Welsh actors infuse these works with thoughtful pitch, gravity, and authentic accents. They vocalize sensitivity to the people's sorrow, joy, and, best of all, jocular and irreverent approach to life. A.W. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2013]