ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA BBC Radio Shakespeare

The challenge of taking a play created for the stage and translating it to the audio format may seem daunting, but this production does just that—exceptionally well. The use of sound is outstanding—seagulls caw, swords clash, and crickets chirp to indicate sea, battle, and night scenes. The actors speak close to the microphone to convey the play's asides, and transitional music creatively denotes setting changes from Rome to Alexandria. As for voice talent, the triumvirate triumphs, and Frances Barber perfectly captures both Cleopatra's rage and hysteria. With neither the text nor a live actor to reference, in group scenes it can be difficult to tell exactly who is speaking, but not so much as to adversely affect this enjoyable experience. M.D. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2012]