BCG Daily Saturday 17th March 2018

Comedy is the new drama

It's sitcoms, not police thrillers, tackling the deep issues.

Vicky McClure interview

The Line of Duty star talks about playing it for laughs in new ITV comedy Action Team and finding roles which reflect working class Britain.

James Bugg interview

How a talented writer created a brand new sketch show for 4Music.

Hollywood condemns Terry Gilliam for #MeToo comments

Actors and directors criticise film-maker for likening movement to 'mob rule' and remarks about Weinstein scandal.

Interview: rarely asked questions - Tez Ilyas

Tez Ilyas is definitely a comedian with a difference. There aren't many stand-ups out there with the manner and patter of a prime-time entertainer and the material and passion of a hard hitting satirist.

Comedy review: Marjolein Robertson

Claiming to be Shetland's only female comedian, with violent reprisals threatened for any pretenders to her crown, Marjolein Robertson is a highly promising and delightfully original act. Perhaps only Michael Redmond or David Kay convey a similar, slightly touched impression of otherworldliness in Scottish stand-up.

Simon Evans: Genius - The Lowry, Salford review

With an extensive vocabulary and a voice akin to a Colonel or Sargent Major, Evans has a rather difficult task when it comes to softening his persona in order to win over his audience. And although he admits that he may sound like he is going to rant like a grumpy old man one hopes that his diatribe may actually have an ironic or tongue-in-cheek quality. Unfortunately, it becomes the manifesto of an actual grumpy old man.

Sir Ken Dodd's widow shares her heartbreak

Sir Ken Dodd's widow today reveals the comic is helping her to bear her grief from beyond the grave with words of wisdom.

Lady Anne also tells how the "outpouring of love" from the nation after his death last week at 90 has left her overwhelmed by the "amazing messages and letters of comfort".

Review: Whisky Galore

As Britain marks 100 years since women first gained the right to vote, Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Hull Truck Theatre and New Vic Theatre present a brand new, all-female adaptation of Compton Mackenzie's comedy classic Whisky Galore.