Explore every episode of the podcast Distinct Nostalgia
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The President and the Emperor Episode Two | 07 Nov 2025 | 00:42:39 | |
The extraordinary inside story of the most controversial decision in the history of modern warfare - the order to drop the atomic bomb. Drawn from first-hand accounts of those involved and declassified top secret American and Japanese documents from 1945, this documentary drama unfolds through the eyes of the two people at the centre of this world changing event - President Harry S. Truman and Showa Emperor Hirohito of Japan Episode 2: THE ALTERNATIVE OPTION President Truman is briefed on plans for the invasion of Japan which, the generals tell him, could cost hundreds of thousands of American casualties and take eighteen months to end the war. But he has a secret alternative option, which he believes, will force Japan to surrender with just one bomb... You can hear the cast and production team list in detail at the end of the episode. A Made in Manchester Production. This drama has been made with the good will of everyone involved and not with huge funders behind it. If you would like to give something to the costs and to show your appreciation for all the work involved, please donate here https://buymeacoffee.com/presidentandemperor | |||
| EXCLUSIVE: The President And The Emperor Part 2 Trailer | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:02:04 | |
First Look Trailer for Part 2 of The President and the Emperor starring Clifton Truman Daniel as President Harry S Truman, Sadao Ueda as Emperor Hirohito and Samuel Barnett as Phillip Oppenheimer. Episode 2 coming soon..... The President and the Emperor is written by The director is Jonathan Kydd. Produced by Ashley Byrne Executive Producer is Kurt Brookes A Made in Manchester production. | |||
| 40 Years of EastEnders - back to the early 2000s when Dame Sheila Hancock played Steve Owen's disturbed mum Barbara | 21 Feb 2025 | 00:29:26 | |
Join us for the third episode of Distinct Nostalgia's special series celebrating EastEnders at 40. In this episode, Dame Sheila Hancock, who brought the unforgettable Barbara Owen to life in 2000 and 2001, sits down with Ashley to discuss her time on the show. Barbara, a complex character with a troubled relationship with her children, especially her son Steve, left a lasting impact on Walford. Sheila shares behind-the-scenes stories, her thoughts on Barbara's dramatic storylines, and what it was like to be part of such a beloved soap. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with one of EastEnders' most memorable guest stars. Look out for more episodes celebrating EastEnders' 40 years over the weekend. And don't forget, there are dozens of EastEnders and other soap interviews and reunions in the Distinct Nostalgia archive. Produced by Ashley Byrne Research by Andrew Edwards An Made in Manchester Production And don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. | |||
| 'Funny Women' of Great British Sitcom - JUDY CORNWELL from Keeping Up Appearances | 23 Jul 2021 | 00:47:09 | |
As our series of 'Funny Women of Great British Sitcom' continues, Andy Hoyle chats to Judy Cornwell about her long career. Judy starred as Daisy in Keeping Up Appearances alongside Geoffrey Hughes as Onslow during the 1990s. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/distinctnostalgia) | |||
| 'Funny Women' of Great British Sitcom - ANNA KAREN from On The Buses | 12 Jul 2021 | 00:55:40 | |
Anna Karen played one of the most popular characters of 70s sitcom in Britain - the hilarious accident prone but sex mad 'Olive' in On the Buses. The series began in 1969 and became a favourite throughout the next decade with more than 70 episodes plus 3 feature films - On The Buses, Mutiny On the Buses and Holiday On The Buses. Here Anna remembers how she created Olive and recalls working with a cast which included Reg Varney, Doris Hare, Bob Grant and Stephen Lewis. She also talks about playing the caustic Aunt Sal, Peggy's sister in EastEnders. | |||
| 'Funny Women' of Great British Sitcom - SALLY THOMSETT from Man About the House | 05 Jul 2021 | 01:00:41 | |
It's back to the 1970s for the first in a special series of three programmes meeting some of the Queens of British Sitcom. Here Ashley speaks to Sally Thomsett who played Jo in the runaway ITV comedy Man About The House which starred Richard O'Sullivan, Paula Wilcox, Yootha Joyce and Brian Murphy. The show would go on to spawn two other big hits - George and Mildred (starring Brian and Yootha) and Robin's Nest (starring Richard). Sally speaks candidly about her time as one of the most famous faces in Britain and what the show did for her and her co-stars lives and careers. | |||
| GREAT British Film - The Oscar winning Neil Jordan talks about his iconic 1992 Brit-flick The Crying Game | 12 Jun 2021 | 00:41:27 | |
It was multi-Oscar nominated and its creator walked away with best screenplay. The Crying Game also won Best British Film at the Baftas. And it was ground breaking, tackling as it did race, gender, sexuality and nationality all with a background of the troubles in Northern Ireland. Full of surprises, it was an enthralling and exciting film which broke many taboos. And it had a fabulous soundtrack too. Ashley Byrne has been talking to prolific Irish film maker Neil Jordan about how it all happened nearly 30 years ago. | |||
| Bank Holiday Treats: Original Comedy - Sitcom Shorts: Florrie and Dotty Series 3 - Think On! | 29 May 2021 | 00:10:11 | |
Series 3 Janice spent many years as a teacher, mother, writer and singer and trained as an actor in her fifties at ICAT Manchester, graduating in July 2017, since when she has worked in most areas of the industry. Janice originated the role of Carol Atkins in the musical play The Jury at The Brindley Runcorn in 2018 and Upstairs at the Gatehouse, London in Feb 2020 (eight FOUR STAR reviews and nominated for an ‘Offy’). She has appeared in four TVcommercials, short films, radio plays, dance theatre narration and fringe theatre in Oldham Coliseum, Liverpool Everyman, Storyhouse Chester and pub theatre. About Lindsay Eavis - actor Lindsay has been performing since she was 4 years old. As a child she trained as a dancer and at 16 won a place at ArtsEdin London. Despite several breaks due to family commitments, her career has taken her all over the country and into Europe. She has worked professionally in serious drama, comedy, pantomime, TIE and television. Aside from her acting work she pursued a career as a Trainer in the NHS and was involved in the local amateur scene as actor, director, teacher and choreographer. For further info, contact Janice and Lindsay via info@madeinmanchester.tv Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/distinctnostalgia) | |||
| Two Doors Down - We meet Jonathan Watson who plays Colin in the hilarious BBC2 sitcom | 28 May 2021 | 00:50:34 | |
We’re usually celebrating the iconic shows of the past with the people who were there but very, very occasionally DistinctNostalgia will focus in on something contemporary we feel deserves some real attention and this is one of those rare occasions. | |||
| COMEDY WRITING LEGENDS - The One Foot in the Grave Story...In Conversation with David Renwick Part 2 | 03 May 2021 | 01:18:04 | |
David Renwick is one of the real British comedy writing legends. He created the iconic Victor Meldrew. Over two parts Ashley talks to David about his early years and the plethora of comedies he's written. In this second programme David talks about his inspiration for Victor and how and why One Foot in the Grave endured for so long. Find episode 1 by scrolling through the Distinct Nostalgia feed wherever you get your podcasts. | |||
| COMEDY WRITING LEGENDS - From The Two Ronnies to One Foot in the Grave...In Conversation with David Renwick Part 1 | 21 Apr 2021 | 00:48:42 | |
David Renwick is one of the real British comedy writing legends. He created the iconic Victor Meldrew. Over two parts Ashley talks to David about his early years and the plethora of comedies he's written. In this first programme David talks about penning sketches for The Two Ronnies and working with David Jason long before Open All Hours and Only Fools and Horses. In Part 2 the discussion turns to David's big sitcom and casting Richard Wilson and Annette Crosbie for One Foot in The Grave. | |||
| EASTER TREATS: Original Comedy - Sitcom Shorts: Florrie and Dotty Series 2 - Episode 3: Watch with Mother | 05 Apr 2021 | 00:08:12 | |
Series 2 At last Florrie & Dotty can meet in Florrie's back yard and reminisce about great TV ads of the 70s, children's TV in the 60s, with its threesomes, and a ponder a modern meaning of Easter. Florrie....Lindsay Eavis Janice spent many years as a teacher, mother, writer and singer and trained as an actor in her fifties at ICAT Manchester, graduating in July 2017, since when she has worked in most areas of the industry. Janice originated the role of Carol Atkins in the musical play The Jury at The Brindley Runcorn in 2018 and Upstairs at the Gatehouse, London in Feb 2020 (eight FOUR STAR reviews and nominated for an ‘Offy’). She has appeared in four TVcommercials, short films, radio plays, dance theatre narration and fringe theatre in Oldham Coliseum, Liverpool Everyman, Storyhouse Chester and pub theatre. About Lindsay Eavis - actor Lindsay has been performing since she was 4 years old. As a child she trained as a dancer and at 16 won a place at ArtsEdin London. Despite several breaks due to family commitments, her career has taken her all over the country and into Europe. She has worked professionally in serious drama, comedy, pantomime, TIE and television. Aside from her acting work she pursued a career as a Trainer in the NHS and was involved in the local amateur scene as actor, director, teacher and choreographer. For further info, contact Janice and Lindsay via info@madeinmanchester.tv | |||
| EASTER TREATS: Original Comedy - Sitcom Shorts: Florrie and Dotty Series 2 - Episode 2: Witches Don't Drown | 04 Apr 2021 | 00:09:20 | |
The 'girls' chat on the phone about exercise, Mother's Day and Yorkshire Tea. Then meet outside where they debate gender-based violence and wonder if we're all to blame. Florrie....Janice Fryett Janice spent many years as a teacher, mother, writer and singer and trained as an actor in her fifties at ICAT Manchester, graduating in July 2017, since when she has worked in most areas of the industry. Janice originated the role of Carol Atkins in the musical play The Jury at The Brindley Runcorn in 2018 and Upstairs at the Gatehouse, London in Feb 2020 (eight FOUR STAR reviews and nominated for an ‘Offy’). She has appeared in four TVcommercials, short films, radio plays, dance theatre narration and fringe theatre in Oldham Coliseum, Liverpool Everyman, Storyhouse Chester and pub theatre. About Lindsay Eavis - actor Lindsay has been performing since she was 4 years old. As a child she trained as a dancer and at 16 won a place at ArtsEdin London. Despite several breaks due to family commitments, her career has taken her all over the country and into Europe. She has worked professionally in serious drama, comedy, pantomime, TIE and television. Aside from her acting work she pursued a career as a Trainer in the NHS and was involved in the local amateur scene as actor, director, teacher and choreographer. For further info, contact Janice and Lindsay via info@madeinmanchester.tv | |||
| 40 Years of EastEnders - in conversation with the show's longest serving writer Rob Gittins | 19 Feb 2025 | 01:03:36 | |
In the second episode of Distinct Nostalgia celebrating EastEnders' 40th birthday, Ashley sits down with Rob Gittins, the show's longest-serving writer. Rob has been a pivotal figure in the EastEnders writing team since its early days, contributing to over 300 episodes. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the show's characters and storylines have made him an invaluable asset to the series. During the interview, Rob shares his journey as a key player in one of the UK's most beloved drama serials. He reflects on the evolution of EastEnders, the challenges of keeping the storylines fresh, and the memorable moments that have defined the show. The interview offers listeners a unique insight into the creative process behind EastEnders and the dedication required to maintain its success over four decades. More episodes marking EastEnders' 40 years in coming days. And scroll through the DN archive for many many more interviews and reunions celebrating the show over the years. Produced by Ashley Byrne Research by Andrew Edwards An Made in Manchester Production And don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. | |||
| EASTER TREATS: Original Comedy - Sitcom Shorts: Florrie and Dotty Series 2 - Episode 1: Queen of Tarts | 02 Apr 2021 | 00:10:21 | |
Back by popular demand, we've a new series of original sitcom shorts from northern gossips' Florrie and Dotty this Easter. Janice Fryett and Lindsay Eavis star as they get to grips with everything from 'permitted exercise', bending 'the rules' Bridgerton-inspired sexual experimentation, designer vaginas, Mother's Day and misogyny. Florrie....Janice Fryett Janice spent many years as a teacher, mother, writer and singer and trained as an actor in her fifties at ICAT Manchester, graduating in July 2017, since when she has worked in most areas of the industry. Janice originated the role of Carol Atkins in the musical play The Jury at The Brindley Runcorn in 2018 and Upstairs at the Gatehouse, London in Feb 2020 (eight FOUR STAR reviews and nominated for an ‘Offy’). She has appeared in four TVcommercials, short films, radio plays, dance theatre narration and fringe theatre in Oldham Coliseum, Liverpool Everyman, Storyhouse Chester and pub theatre. About Lindsay Eavis - actor Lindsay has been performing since she was 4 years old. As a child she trained as a dancer and at 16 won a place at ArtsEdin London. Despite several breaks due to family commitments, her career has taken her all over the country and into Europe. She has worked professionally in serious drama, comedy, pantomime, TIE and television. Aside from her acting work she pursued a career as a Trainer in the NHS and was involved in the local amateur scene as actor, director, teacher and choreographer. For further info, contact Janice and Lindsay via info@madeinmanchester.tv | |||
| Exclusive New Comedy - Northern gossips' Florrie and Dotty are back for Easter - Listen to the teaser here | 31 Mar 2021 | 00:01:33 | |
Back by popular demand, we've a new series of original sitcom shorts from northern gossips' Florrie and Dotty this Easter. Janice Fryett and Lindsay Eavis star as they get to grips with everything from 'permitted exercise', bending 'the rules' Bridgerton-inspired sexual experimentation, designer vaginas, Mother's Day and misogyny. | |||
| Distinct Nostalgia Special - 90 mins with Sinbad! - Michael Starke on life in Brookside and Corrie | 20 Mar 2021 | 01:33:33 | |
He played Sinbad in Brookside for 16 years. 21 years after quitting as the loveable rogue, he’s still Sinbad to generations. Michael Starke takes questions from Ashley and NHS worker William Coughlin in a special soap edition of DistinctNostalgia. Enjoy! | |||
| The Great Magpie Reunion - Coming Soon to Distinct Nostalgia | 15 Mar 2021 | 00:01:25 | |
Coming soon - in conversation with the stars of Magpie .. listen to teaser | |||
| From Casualty to Heartbeat and beyond: A chat with Jonathan Kerrigan | 05 Mar 2021 | 01:08:06 | |
Casualty and Heartbeat star Jonathan Kerrigan sits down for a fun chat with Ashley Byrne. The conversation ventures into his early years, his time on two of Britain's biggest drama series, being described as a heartthrob, working in the States and his musical talents. Jonathan remains one of the UK's most talented drama actors but is it time for him to try his hand at a bit of comedy? | |||
| Coming Soon - Heartbeat and Casualty star Jonathan Kerrigan | 02 Mar 2021 | 00:01:24 | |
Coming soon - in conversation with Jonathan Kerrigan .. listen to teaser | |||
| Emmerdale Memories Weekend Double Bill Part 2 - Alyson Spiro on playing Sarah Sugden | 28 Feb 2021 | 00:52:20 | |
Alyson Spiro was no stranger to soap when she took on the role of Sarah Sugden in Emmerdale in 1994. She'd previously starred for a year in Brookside. But the role of Sarah was a special one for Alyson and here she tells Ashley all about the ups and downs of starring in a major UK tv serial. After listening to Alyson, why not catch up with other former Emmerdale actors?! - Ian Sharrock, Jean Rogers, Freddie Pyne, Deena Payne and Roberta Kerr can all be found chatting about their time in the Dales on Distinct Nostalgia. | |||
| Emmerdale Memories Weekend Double Bill: Part 1 - Roberta Kerr on Playing Jan Glover in the 90s | 27 Feb 2021 | 00:34:19 | |
Roberta Kerr has starred in most of the soaps - Corrie as Wendy Crozier, Brookside, EastEnders, The Archers - and of course as Jan Glover in Emmerdale. Roberta really enjoyed her time in the Dales because it gave her a character to really get her teeth into and explore all Jan's nuances. She's been remembering those four years in the mid 90s with Ashley. This episode of Distinct Nostalgia is part of an Emmerdale weekend double bill with our interview with Alyson Spiro being released on Sunday, Feb 28th 2021. | |||
| Happy Birthday June: Re-Release of 'Missing You' starring June Brown and Sam Barnard with bonus interview with writer Richard Vergette. | 16 Feb 2021 | 00:46:02 | |
June Brown is 94 today. So to mark her birthday we're re-releasing our special drama 'Missing You' starring June Brown and Sam Barnard. And we're adding a bonus interview with the writer Richard Vergette after the show. Missing You was written specifically for June and Sam - and based on Richard's own personal experience of having a son with Down's Syndrome. This 30 minute drama kicks off ‘Generation Games’, a new series of occasional monologues and duologues exploring relationships, friendships and connections across the generational divide. June plays Margey, who against advice, refused to give her son up for adoption when she was told he had Down's syndrome. She has protected William fiercely throughout his life, even when William has preferred not to be protected. Despite the tensions that arose when William demanded his independence, both mother and son remain devoted to each other. Now they can’t see each-other due to the pandemic and the enforced separation causes each of them to reflect on their shared past. Missing You is written by Richard Vergette who says: ‘Being the parent of a young man with Down’s Syndrome I’m aware that the compassionate response we received by medical staff at our son’s birth, wasn’t always the experience of parents from previous generations. Parents like Margey had to fight just for the right to bring up their own child. William is equally formidable and needs to lead his own life – away from his Mother. Richard continues: ‘I’m fortunate enough to have worked with the excellent actor, Sam Barnard, so was delighted when he agreed to play the role of William. When writing the role of Margey I had the voice of June Brown in my head and so asked the producer, Ashley Byrne, “Can we find a June Brown type of actress?”. “How about June Brown?” he replied! I still can’t quite believe that a living legend is playing in a piece I’ve written. They are both brilliant in their respective roles and bring home the frustrations as well as the joys of their characters’ relationship.’ MIM and Distinct Nostalgia Creative Director Ashley Byrne adds: ‘This is a very touching and thoughtful portrayal and is a tremendous story to kick off our series exploring relationships across the generations. We’ll be bringing more established names together with not so well known talent in a bid to tackle ageism in our society. In broadcasting the trend is to increasingly shove people in age silos and never the twain shall meet but we feel the portrayal of relationships with people across the generations is crucial for social cohesion.’ Distinct Nostalgia began in January 2020 and regularly charts. Its main content includes interviews and reunions with famous tv and movie stars and regularly celebrates the soaps, comedy and British film. Distinct Nostalgia also includes new drama and comedy. | |||
| Playing Evil Aunt Babe - In Conversation with EastEnders' star Annette Badland | 15 Feb 2021 | 00:39:42 | |
Annette Badland is a prolific character actor with an eclectic mix of fabulous credits to her name over many decades but she's probably best known (certainly in recent years) for her role as Aunt Babe in EastEnders. Here she tells Ashley about the challenges of playing such a manipulative character. Banished by the Carter family for her evil deeds but could Aunt Babe return one day to seek revenge in Albert Square? | |||
| 40 Years of EastEnders - back to 2006 as we meet Sophie Thompson who played evil Stella | 18 Feb 2025 | 00:39:21 | |
In celebration of EastEnders' 40th birthday, Distinct Nostalgia kicks off with an exclusive interview featuring Sophie Thompson, who portrayed the infamous Stella Crawford. Sophie sits down with Ashley to reminisce about her time on the show and her character's dramatic storyline. Stella, introduced as Phil Mitchell's new lawyer, quickly became one of the soap's most memorable villains. Her relationship with Phil took a dark turn as she began to mentally and physically abuse his son, Ben. The tension culminated on their wedding day when Ben revealed Stella's torment, leading to her tragic demise. Sophie shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes and reflects on the impact of playing such a complex character. The interview with Sophie is one of several to mark the show's 40th birthday, keep tuning in for more. Produced by Ashley Byrne Research by Andrew Edwards An Made in Manchester Production And don't forget we need your support. Distinct Nostalgia has no budget. You can buy us a coffee by clicking this link. | |||
| Classic British Sitcom: Remembering The Good Life with Felicity Kendal | 09 Feb 2021 | 01:06:53 | |
She's one of the greats of British acting - and comedy! Felicity Kendal has been part of the fabric of British life for decades. She rose to fame in the 1970s sitcom The Good Life, alongside Richard Briers, Penelope Keith and Paul Eddington. She's also well known for Rosemary and Thyme, the Carla Lane sitcom 'Solo' and a plethora of other parts over the years. Here she talks to Ashley Byrne about how it all began as well as great with memories of her co-stars. | |||
| Early Emmerdale Heartthrob - Ian Sharrock on playing Jackie Merrick - Part Two | 07 Feb 2021 | 01:33:48 | |
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| Early Emmerdale Heartthrob - Ian Sharrock on playing Jackie Merrick - Part One | 28 Jan 2021 | 01:13:26 | |
Ian Sharrock played Jackie Merrick - Emmerdale Farm's early heartthrob and poster boy. He joined the cast in 1980, eight years into the show's run. Having some young blood in the show was something of a revolution and he quickly became popular with both fellow cast members and the public at large. In a special two part interview, Ian reflects on his Emmerdale days and working with some great actors including his close friend Stan Richards who played Seth. Across the two programmes we also touch on the rest of his career including working with the likes of Danny Kaye, Jodie Foster and David Niven among others. | |||
| Little Remembers Large Part 2 - Down Comedy Memory Lane with Syd | 23 Jan 2021 | 00:51:06 | |
He's one half of an enduring double act which made people laugh for decades. Here Syd Little speaks to Caroline Heywood about his partnership with the late, great Eddie Large who died from Covid-19 complications back in April. Over two parts, Syd takes their story from the early days doing the clubs through to their heady days of tv and variety stardom. Little Remembers Large begins an occasional series in which Caroline Heywood talks candidly and in depth with legendary British comedians. This is Part 2. You can find Part 1 by scrolling through the Distinct Nostalgia feed. | |||
| Comedy Writing Legends Prog 2 Part Two - Jan Etherington - Second Thoughts, Faith in the Future, Next of Kin and working with Lynda Bellingham, Penelope Keith and Joanna Lumley | 21 Jan 2021 | 00:45:30 | |
In part 2 of the second programme in our series 'Comedy Writing Legends' Jan Etherington talks candidly about her sitcoms hit Second Thoughts, Faith in the Future and Next of Kin. She also chats to Ashley about working with Lynda Bellingham, Penelope Keith, Richard Wilson and Joanna Lumley who stars in her latest comedy 'Conversations from a Long Marriage' on Radio 4. | |||
| Emmerdale Memories - Deena Payne on playing the iconic Viv Windsor | 16 Jan 2021 | 01:22:07 | |
She's one of Emmerdale's longest serving stars. But she was written out in a rather lacklustre way. Deena Payne played the iconic Viv Windsor (later Viv Hope) for 18 years. Here Deena tells Ashley about how she made the character her own - and in real life made Yorkshire her home! The interview covers some hilarious tales of her time in the Dales and a candid account of her feelings about how her character was killed off. | |||
| Comedy Writing Legends Prog 2 Part One - Jan Etherington on her hit sitcom Second Thoughts and working with Lynda Bellingham, James Bolam and others | 06 Jan 2021 | 00:46:09 | |
In the second programme in our series 'Comedy Writing Legends' Jan Etherington talks candidly about her huge sitcom hit Second Thoughts which ran for five series on ITV in the 90s. Second Thoughts starred the late Lynda Bellingham, James Bolam, Belinda Lang, Julia Sawalha and Mark Denham. Here Jan chats to Ashley about how she created the series with her husband and fellow writer Gavin Petrie. | |||
| Corrie at 60: Early Years Trilogy - Meet Alan Rothwell, Patricia Shakesby and Kenneth Cope | 03 Jan 2021 | 01:11:18 | |
In our final 'Corrie at 60' series, we meet 3 of the very early stars of the Street. It's back to December 9th 1960 with Alan Rothwell who played David Barlow and Patricia Shakesby who played Susan Cunningham, Ken Barlow's first girlfriend. Both have great stories from the first days of Coronation Street. Then we're meeting Kenneth Cope who played Minnie Caldwell's lodger Sunny Jim (Jed Stone) from 1961 onwards. All these actors did other things, so expect one or two tangents along the way. Enjoy! | |||
| Corrie at 60 - Meet Dave Dutton - the Man who's had 11 roles in Coronation Street over 35 Years | 01 Jan 2021 | 01:34:48 | |
Dave Dutton has been appearing in Coronation Street since 1985. He's had 11 roles over that time and been involved in some of the show's most interesting storylines. Here, Dave who has just published his autobiography 'The Thirty Bob Kid', speaks candidly about his relationship with Corrie as well as his starring role in 1980s comedy 'Watching', writing for Ken Dodd and The Two Ronnies - and becoming Rik Mayall's co-star. It's a fun, entertaining interview to kick off the New Year. Enjoy! | |||
| Little Remembers Large Part 1 - Down Comedy Memory Lane with Syd | 01 Jan 2021 | 00:58:15 | |
He's one half of an enduring double act which made people laugh for decades. Here Syd Little speaks to Caroline Heywood about his partnership with the late, great Eddie Large who died from Covid-19 complications back in April. Over two parts, Syd takes their story from the early days doing the clubs through to their heady days of tv and variety stardom. Little Remembers Large begins an occasional series in which Caroline Heywood talks candidly and in depth with legendary British comedians. | |||
| Original Christmas Comedy - Florrie and Dotty are back as ‘Winter Drawers On’ - the very latest from our 60 something northern gossips | 22 Dec 2024 | 00:10:28 | |
Original Christmas Comedy | |||
| Corrie at 60: A dip into the archives as Ashley recalls meeting Betty Driver and Jean Alexander | 28 Dec 2020 | 00:32:36 | |
We return to our Corrie at 60 specials. This time Ashley has been dipping into his own archives for some anecdotes from Betty Driver and Jean Alexander. He chatted to Betty in her dressing room at Granada about 11 years ago and to Jean at her home in Southport about 8 years ago. Enjoy! | |||
| NEW COMEDY SHOWCASE - Meet Florrie and Dotty by Janice Fryett | 27 Dec 2020 | 00:39:50 | |
We've a special treat for you now as we showcase some new northern comedy. Written by Janice Fryett we have the pleasure in introducing you to Florrie and Dotty. Florrie & Dotty Episodes Ep1.Tubby McTubFace – Florrie has a great bit of gossip about her at number 38, but Dotty trumps it with news of an octogenarian neighbour with a young Thai bride. Ep2.Lockdown Lard – Dotty is scornful of Florrie’s attempts to lose the weight she gained during Lockdown 0.1, but will she beat her at her own game? Ep3.Michaelmas Daisy – Florrie uses gin and sympathy to console Dotty after her traumatic encounter in the church grounds. Ep4.Playing Hygge – Florrie and Dotty bump into one another at the supermarket and, through their face masks,discuss free school meals and Florrie’s new hygge lifestyle. A trip to the Foodbank gives them more than they bargained for. Ep5.Round Robins – Florrie and Dotty sum up the year (2020) in a skit on Christmas newsletters and make their own plans for Christmas day (in Tier Two). Janice spent many years as a teacher, mother, writer and singer and trained as an actor in her fifties at ICAT Manchester, graduating in July 2017, since when she has worked in most areas of the industry. Janice originated the role of Carol Atkins in the musical play The Jury at The Brindley Runcorn in 2018 and Upstairs at the Gatehouse, London in Feb 2020 (eight FOUR STAR reviews and nominated for an ‘Offy’). She has appeared in four TVcommercials, short films, radio plays, dance theatre narration and fringe theatre in Oldham Coliseum, Liverpool Everyman, Storyhouse Chester and pub theatre. Lindsay Eavis - actor Lindsay has been performing since she was 4 years old. As a child she trained as a dancer and at 16 won a place at ArtsEdin London. Despite several breaks due to family commitments, her career has taken her all over the country and into Europe. She has worked professionally in serious drama, comedy, pantomime, TIE and television. Aside from her acting work she pursued a career as a Trainer in the NHS and was involved in the local amateur scene as actor, director, teacher and choreographer. A Spinney Audio Production | |||
| NEW SERIES - 'Comedy Writing Legends' - Ep1 PART TWO - Marks and Gran - from Rik Mayall & The New Statesman to Goodnight Sweetheart | 27 Dec 2020 | 00:50:56 | |
COMEDY WRITING LEGENDS - MARKS AND GRAN - EPISODE 1 PART TWO | |||
| NEW DRAMA - 'Missing You' starring June Brown MBE and Sam Barnard | 26 Dec 2020 | 00:27:37 | |
Distinct Drama presents... This 30 minute drama kicks off ‘Generation Games’, a new series of occasional monologues and duologues exploring relationships, friendships and connections across the generational divide. June plays Margey, who against advice, refused to give her son up for adoption when she was told he had Down's syndrome. She has protected William fiercely throughout his life, even when William has preferred not to be protected. Despite the tensions that arose when William demanded his independence, both mother and son remain devoted to each other. Now they can’t see each-other due to the pandemic and the enforced separation causes each of them to reflect on their shared past. Missing You is written by Richard Vergette who says: ‘Being the parent of a young man with Down’s Syndrome I’m aware that the compassionate response we received by medical staff at our son’s birth, wasn’t always the experience of parents from previous generations. Parents like Margey had to fight just for the right to bring up their own child. William is equally formidable and needs to lead his own life – away from his Mother. Richard continues: ‘I’m fortunate enough to have worked with the excellent actor, Sam Barnard, so was delighted when he agreed to play the role of William. When writing the role of Margey I had the voice of June Brown in my head and so asked the producer, Ashley Byrne, “Can we find a June Brown type of actress?”. “How about June Brown?” he replied! I still can’t quite believe that a living legend is playing in a piece I’ve written. They are both brilliant in their respective roles and bring home the frustrations as well as the joys of their characters’ relationship.’ MIM and Distinct Nostalgia Creative Director Ashley Byrne adds: ‘This is a very touching and thoughtful portrayal and is a tremendous story to kick off our series exploring relationships across the generations. We’ll be bringing more established names together with not so well known talent in a bid to tackle ageism in our society. In broadcasting the trend is to increasingly shove people in age silos and never the twain shall meet but we feel the portrayal of relationships with people across the generations is crucial for social cohesion.’ Distinct Nostalgia began in January 2020 and regularly charts. Its main content includes interviews and reunions with famous tv and movie stars and regularly celebrates the soaps, comedy and British film. Distinct Nostalgia also includes new drama and comedy. | |||
| NEW SERIES - 'Comedy Writing Legends' Ep1 PART ONE - Marks and Gran - From Shine on Harvey Moon to Birds of a Feather | 25 Dec 2020 | 01:11:05 | |
COMEDY WRITING LEGENDS - MARKS AND GRAN - EPISODE 1 PART ONE | |||
| CHRISTMAS ON DISTINCT NOSTALGIA: Comedy Writing Legends series begins with Birds of a Feather creators Marks and Gran - Listen to Trail Here | 23 Dec 2020 | 00:01:15 | |
This Christmas sees the start of an occasional series celebrating Britain's 'Comedy Writing Legends'. In the first programme, Ashley chats to Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran about their long career which has seen them create among other - Shine on Harvey Moon, Birds of a Feather, The New Statesman and Goodnight Sweetheart. Listen to the trail here. | |||
| CHRISTMAS ON DISTINCT NOSTALGIA: June Brown to star in Christmas Drama about separation during the Pandemic - Listen to Trail Here | 23 Dec 2020 | 00:01:09 | |
Acting legend June Brown may have given up her role as Dot in EastEnders but the 93 year old is far from retiring. This Christmas she plays the mother of a son with Down's syndrome who is separated from him because of the Pandemic. It’s June’s first role since quitting the BBC’s long running hit soap and explores a relationship strained by the isolation felt by many during the Covid 19 crisis. ‘Missing You’ was commissioned by production company MIM for Distinct Nostalgia, the very same platform June used to announce her departure from EastEnders back in February. And the 30 minute audio piece kicks off ‘Generation Games’, a new series of occasional monologues and duologues aimed at exploring relationships across the generational divide. June plays Margey, who against advice, refused to give her son up for adoption when she was told he had Down's syndrome. She has protected William fiercely throughout his life, even when William has preferred not to be protected. Despite the tensions that arose when William demanded his independence, both mother and son remain devoted to each other. Now they can’t see each-other due to the pandemic and the enforced separation causes each of them to reflect on their shared past. Missing You is written by Richard Vergette who says: ‘Being the parent of a young man with Down’s Syndrome I’m aware that the compassionate response we received by medical staff at our son’s birth, wasn’t always the experience of parents from previous generations. Parents like Margey had to fight just for the right to bring up their own child. William is equally formidable and needs to lead his own life – away from his Mother. Richard continues: ‘I’m fortunate enough to have worked with the excellent actor, Sam Barnard, so was delighted when he agreed to play the role of William. When writing the role of Margey I had the voice of June Brown in my head and so asked the producer, Ashley Byrne, “Can we find a June Brown type of actress?”. “How about June Brown?” he replied! I still can’t quite believe that a living legend is playing in a piece I’ve written. They are both brilliant in their respective roles and bring home the frustrations as well as the joys of their characters’ relationship.’ MIM and Distinct Nostalgia Creative Director Ashley Byrne adds: ‘This is a very touching and thoughtful portrayal and is a tremendous story to kick off our series exploring relationships across the generations. We’ll be bringing more established names together with not so well known talent in a bid to tackle ageism in our society. In broadcasting the trend is to increasingly shove people in age silos and never the twain shall meet but we feel the portrayal of relationships with people across the generations is crucial for social cohesion.’ Missing You is produced by Made in Manchester (MIM) and can be heard on Distinct Nostalgia from Boxing Day. Distinct Nostalgia can be found wherever you get your podcasts. Distinct Nostalgia began in January 2020 and regularly charts. Its main content includes interviews and reunions with famous tv and movie stars and regularly celebrates the soaps, comedy and British film. DN also includes new drama and comedy.
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| Corrie at 60: Chris Bisson remembers landing the role of Vikram in the 90s | 20 Dec 2020 | 00:20:41 | |
He's now very much part of Emmerdale but years before he landed his role in the Yorkshire soap, Chris Bisson played Vikram in Coronation Street. He's been giving a short interview to Distinct Nostalgia as part our chats with past cast members to mark the Street's 60th birthday month. You can also hear Chris, at length, discussing is hilarious role in the hit Brit Flick East is East by scrolling through the Distinct Nostalgia player or wherever you get your podcasts. | |||
| Corrie at 60: National treasure Amanda Barrie talks Corrie and the Carry Ons | 17 Dec 2020 | 00:35:33 | |
She was in Coronation Street on and off for several decades, playing Alma who eventually married Mike Baldwin. Here national treasure Amanda Barrie remembers her days on the cobbles with some great stories about some of the grand dames of the show - Doris Speed, Pat Phoenix, Lynne Perrie and Eileen Derbyshire. She also chats to Ashley about the Carry Ons and one or two other things as well. | |||
| Corrie at 60: Bruce Jones on playing Les and the chaos the Battersbys caused over the years | 15 Dec 2020 | 00:53:09 | |
Bruce Jones played Les Battersby for just over 10 years. He and his family caused something of a revolution in the Street. They'd never seen anything like it! Les annoyed the fictional residents of Weatherfield and fans alike when he first moved in but over time Les, Janice, Leanne and Toyah won the affection of Corrie viewers. Here Bruce remembers the early years and some of the contrasting funny and very serious storylines - from winding up Ken to Les's suicide attempt. | |||
| Memories of You and Me with Francis Wright who played Dibs in the long running chidren's show | 28 Nov 2024 | 01:06:00 | |
Here Ashley meets one half of Cosmo and Dibs who were the characters that graced the long running kids series You and Me in the 1980s. | |||
| Distinct Nostalgia Mind of the Month Corrie Super Fan Final - Corriepedia V Conversation Street | 11 Dec 2020 | 00:45:08 | |
So we've reached the big final. Test your own Corrie knowledge as Dave from Glasgow representing Corriepedia and Michael from Southampton representing Conversation Street battle it out for the Distinct Nostalgia Mind of the Month Corrie Superfan title and the coveted Distinct Nostalgia Mind of the Month mug. Michael scored 32.5 points on Pat Phelan in the first round while Dave got 34 points on Ken Barlow. Now they must test their general Corrie knowledge going back 60 years. Listen Now and Enjoy! | |||
| Paying Tribute to Dame Barbara Windsor - EastEnders' and Peggy's Theme Composer Simon May | 11 Dec 2020 | 00:14:37 | |
Simon May composed the EastEnders theme tune as well as Julia's Theme and Peggy's Theme which was used when Barbara Windsor's character left Albert Square. Here he pays tribute to Dame Barbara who has died at the age of 83 after a long battle with dementia. | |||
| Paying Tribute to Dame Barbara Windsor - Carry On, Bond and Hammer horror Star Valerie Leon | 11 Dec 2020 | 00:07:35 | |
Bond girl, Carry On and Hammer horror star Valerie Leon worked with Barbara Windsor on several Carry On films including Carry On Girls and Carry On Camping. Here she pays tribute to Babs who has sadly died at the age of 83 after a long battle with dementia. | |||