Dark Shadows: London’s Burning by Joseph Lidster,
A nightmare for many, the Blitz is a welcome respite for his thoughts. Quentin Collins knows that ‘London’s Burning’ but his dark nature finds the perfect spot among the blackouts of the city. First, a werewolf, he had that curse lifted but is condemned to immortality by a magical painting. He has many a bitter memory to contemplate in his long life.
As the siren sounds, Quentin should be in the shelter but an immortal can afford to be casual about his life and as he strolls alone in the darkness, he chances upon a woman called Rosy Faye. He knows this woman, they have a history but she doesn’t recognise his face because she is old and he is too young to have met her all those years ago.
In an earlier time, Rosie was singing in the music hall. The two of them enjoy a bottle of brandy in the White Rabbit and come across a woman’s corpse that burns before their eyes. Someone thinks Rosie is responsible and Quentin must help track the real killer before she pays the ultimate price.
An atmospheric story, ‘London’s Burning’ features the original Quentin Collins, David Selby, from the 1960s TV series and Rosie Fay is played by Louise Jamieson. They both also provide voice talent to various other characters. I half expected a cross-over with ‘Jago And Litefoot’ but that might have been one step too weird.
Having seen some of the original shows, this audio by Joseph Lidster pushes the quality button up several notches. This is an excellent story again with real feeling coming out the narrative. Both actors put their heart into this production and the plot combines pathos, comedy and witty dialogue to good effect.
The sound design and music also continue to be top notch and the only thing missing is some interviews with the lovely David Selby, presumably because he records his contribution remotely across the ocean.
Sue Davies
August 2012
(pub: Big Finish. 1 CD 60 minute story. Price: CD: £ 9.99 (UK), Download: £ 7.99 (UK). ISBN: 978-1-84435-497-9)
cast: David Selby and Louise Jameson
check out website: www.bigfinish.com
