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Death Speaks Another Language

Death Speaks Another Language

A BBC Radio 4 Full-Cast Thriller

Summary

David Valla stars in a gripping story of drugs, deception and betrayal set in 1960s London

Transport yourself to London’s swinging sixties and the dark underbelly of the capital city in this immersive thriller that will have you hooked from the start. Find yourself trapped in the brutal world of drug dealers, vice and deception. This is an evocative and gripping listen with a full cast and stunning score.

It’s the late 1960s and Nico Gachet is a young French student on the run in England. After making some terrible mistakes he must take drastic measures if he is to save his life and the lives of those he loves. Hoping to make amends for a terrible crime, Nico plans a dangerous liaison in the heart of the city. However, everywhere he turns the fearsome ‘Buller’ looms. Nico’s plans begin to fall apart and he must choose who he can trust. Can the young man pick his allies wisely and are they really who they say they are? Who is the sinister drug dealer Buller? And can Nico save himself and his friends? This atmospheric story is a perfect listen for fans of vintage thrillers such as Edward Boyd, Find the Lady and Paul Temple.

Starring David Valla, who is known for his roles as Bill Warren in Crossroads and Eddie Syms in Coronation Street. Written by Peter Ling, the co-creator of Crossroads, whose writing credits include Doctor Who for television and radio adaptations of Sherlock Holmes and Gideon Fell.


Cast and credits

Written by Peter Ling
Produced by Ronald Mason

Nico Gachet - David Valla
Karen Engstrom - Patricia Gallimore
Mrs Benson - Hilda Kriseman
Neil Benson - Derek Seaton
Andrew Plessey - Geoffrey Wincott
Miss Hathaway - Hilda Schroder
Garage Mechanic/Ambulance Man - Roger Gale
Vince McAfferty - Kerry Francis
Coffee House Boss - John Gabriel
Landlady - Diana Payan
Syd Schumann - Leonard Fenton
Indian Doctor/Inspector - Garard Green
Ray Lockett - Alaric Cotter
Detective - Michael Deacon
Stall Keeper - Peter Maycock
Suzanne Kaye - Cecile Chevreau
Salesman - Ian Thompson
Buller - Henry Stamper
Receptionist - Frances Jeater
Amanda - Margaret Wolfit
Night Nurse - Kathleen Helme

First Broadcast BBC Radio 2, 7 August 1969

©2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

About the author

Peter Ling

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