Alan Stafford
Introduction
Alan has written plays, documentaries, sketches and
gags for numerous performers - including Jimmy Carr, Punt & Dennis,
Rory Bremner, Bill Nighy, Jenny Eclair, Griff Rhys Jones, Sandi
Toksvig, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Graeme Garden, Roy Hudd and Parsons &
Naylor.
"Hoffnung - Drawn to Music" - a new radio play starring Matt Lucas, Gina McKee and Hugh Bonneville was broadcast on Monday 28th September 2009
"No previous knowledge of Hoffnung or his work is required: this drama stands alone for the utter brilliance of the acting, the anarchic nature of the language and some of the strangest musical sound effects to be heard on the radio. This is an absolute delight." (Jane Anderson, Radio Times)
"... Alan Stafford's play Hoffnung Drawn To Music is a triumph. Hoffnung (played brilliantly by Matt Lucas) packed an awful lot into a short life ... and Stafford seems to have got most of it in." (Chris Campling, The Times)
"This hugely entertaining play by Alan Stafford ... paints a picture of a lovable and very astute post-war celebrity." (Lisa Mullen, Time Out)
"Alan Stafford's charming and exuberant play" (Moira Petty, The Stage)
"poignant, affectionate drama" (Paul Donovan, Sunday Times)
His topical gags feature in Headcases - ITV1's satirical CGI show - now available on DVD.
A new comedy documentary: Thoroughly Modest Mollie was broadcast on Radio 4 in September 2008.
"Bernard Cribbins presents this delightful programme about the long and witty correspondence between Kenneth Horne and a modest back-room comedy writer called Mollie Millest" (Susan Jeffreys, Daily Mail)
His radio play: Henry's Girls, starring Robert Glenister (Hustle), Naoko Mori (Torchwood), Robert Duncan & Chloe Annett and directed by Dirk Maggs (Hitchhikers Guide series 3-5) was broadcast in May 2007 on Radio 4.
"A play full of music and delight" (Susan Jeffreys, Daily Mail)
"a jolly romp ... providing an interesting insight into the social mores of the time." (Chris Campling, Times)
His radio play: All Fingers and Thumbs, starring Bill Nighy, Susannah Doyle and Jenny Eclair and directed by Dirk Maggs, was broadcast in December 2004 and repeated in January 2007. Extracts were featured in Radio 4's Pick of The Week and BBC2's See Hear.
"This highly entertaining play boasts the winning combination of witty writer Alan Stafford and national treasure Bill Nighy." (Stephanie Billen, Observer).
"Hugely entertaining." (Maxton Walker, Guardian).
"A witty play ... Nighy, you sense, really relished his grizzled role." (Arthur Smith, Pick of the Week)
"Alan Stafford's comedy is about love's power to vanquish theatrical egos, and it's cannily observed, rueful, funny." (Gillian Reynolds, Daily Telegraph)
He researched and scripted Sound The Horne – celebrating the centenary of the birth of Kenneth Horne – presented by Jimmy Carr. This was broadcast on Radio 4 in February 2007 and clips were featured on Pick Of The Week.
"fabulous tribute ... a labour of love from writer Alan Stafford" (Frances Lass, Radio Times)
He has written 2 series of comedy documentary: "Absent Friends", presented by Tony Hawks. A second 3-part series was broadcast in March 2007 on Radio 4.
"A funny idea, well executed" (Paul Donovan, Sunday Times)
"delicious new series" (Stephanie Billen, Observer)
"such a clever idea" (Chris Campling, The Times)
"an enjoyable raid of classic material." (Simon Garfield, Mail on Sunday)
He also researched and wrote the linking script for a 2-part documentary tracing the history of TV's Comedy Playhouse, presented by Tim Brooke-Taylor (November 2005, repeated October 2006). Both episodes were featured in Radio 4's Pick of the Week.
"marvellous" (Ned Sherrin, Pick of the Week)
"sparky links" (Anthony Brown, TV Zone)
A documentary about 30s double-act Mr Murgatroyd & Mr Winterbottom was broadcast in November 2006.
"An engaging show" (Stephanie Billen, Observer)
"Jolly half-hour documentary" (Lisa Martland, The Stage)
"Hugely enjoyable" (Martin Hoyle, Financial Times)
Other comedies, documentaries and plays are currently in development.
"Hoffnung - Drawn to Music" - a new radio play starring Matt Lucas, Gina McKee and Hugh Bonneville was broadcast on Monday 28th September 2009
"No previous knowledge of Hoffnung or his work is required: this drama stands alone for the utter brilliance of the acting, the anarchic nature of the language and some of the strangest musical sound effects to be heard on the radio. This is an absolute delight." (Jane Anderson, Radio Times)
"... Alan Stafford's play Hoffnung Drawn To Music is a triumph. Hoffnung (played brilliantly by Matt Lucas) packed an awful lot into a short life ... and Stafford seems to have got most of it in." (Chris Campling, The Times)
"This hugely entertaining play by Alan Stafford ... paints a picture of a lovable and very astute post-war celebrity." (Lisa Mullen, Time Out)
"Alan Stafford's charming and exuberant play" (Moira Petty, The Stage)
"poignant, affectionate drama" (Paul Donovan, Sunday Times)
His topical gags feature in Headcases - ITV1's satirical CGI show - now available on DVD.
A new comedy documentary: Thoroughly Modest Mollie was broadcast on Radio 4 in September 2008.
"Bernard Cribbins presents this delightful programme about the long and witty correspondence between Kenneth Horne and a modest back-room comedy writer called Mollie Millest" (Susan Jeffreys, Daily Mail)
His radio play: Henry's Girls, starring Robert Glenister (Hustle), Naoko Mori (Torchwood), Robert Duncan & Chloe Annett and directed by Dirk Maggs (Hitchhikers Guide series 3-5) was broadcast in May 2007 on Radio 4.
"A play full of music and delight" (Susan Jeffreys, Daily Mail)
"a jolly romp ... providing an interesting insight into the social mores of the time." (Chris Campling, Times)
His radio play: All Fingers and Thumbs, starring Bill Nighy, Susannah Doyle and Jenny Eclair and directed by Dirk Maggs, was broadcast in December 2004 and repeated in January 2007. Extracts were featured in Radio 4's Pick of The Week and BBC2's See Hear.
"This highly entertaining play boasts the winning combination of witty writer Alan Stafford and national treasure Bill Nighy." (Stephanie Billen, Observer).
"Hugely entertaining." (Maxton Walker, Guardian).
"A witty play ... Nighy, you sense, really relished his grizzled role." (Arthur Smith, Pick of the Week)
"Alan Stafford's comedy is about love's power to vanquish theatrical egos, and it's cannily observed, rueful, funny." (Gillian Reynolds, Daily Telegraph)
He researched and scripted Sound The Horne – celebrating the centenary of the birth of Kenneth Horne – presented by Jimmy Carr. This was broadcast on Radio 4 in February 2007 and clips were featured on Pick Of The Week.
"fabulous tribute ... a labour of love from writer Alan Stafford" (Frances Lass, Radio Times)
He has written 2 series of comedy documentary: "Absent Friends", presented by Tony Hawks. A second 3-part series was broadcast in March 2007 on Radio 4.
"A funny idea, well executed" (Paul Donovan, Sunday Times)
"delicious new series" (Stephanie Billen, Observer)
"such a clever idea" (Chris Campling, The Times)
"an enjoyable raid of classic material." (Simon Garfield, Mail on Sunday)
He also researched and wrote the linking script for a 2-part documentary tracing the history of TV's Comedy Playhouse, presented by Tim Brooke-Taylor (November 2005, repeated October 2006). Both episodes were featured in Radio 4's Pick of the Week.
"marvellous" (Ned Sherrin, Pick of the Week)
"sparky links" (Anthony Brown, TV Zone)
A documentary about 30s double-act Mr Murgatroyd & Mr Winterbottom was broadcast in November 2006.
"An engaging show" (Stephanie Billen, Observer)
"Jolly half-hour documentary" (Lisa Martland, The Stage)
"Hugely enjoyable" (Martin Hoyle, Financial Times)
Other comedies, documentaries and plays are currently in development.
Past Work
Television
HEADCASES (ITV1, ITV2)
Invited contributor of topical news gags for this computer animation satire show.
Series One now available on DVD.
Performer: Dan Maier
Director: Henry Naylor
SEE HEAR (BBC2, BBC1)
Extracts from radio play "All Fingers and Thumbs" and interviews with cast and writer
Actor/Presenter: Fifi Garfield
Script extracts by: Alan Stafford
Interviewees: Alan Stafford, Bill Nighy, Susannah Doyle
Editor: Terry Riley
BREMNER, BIRD & FORTUNE and RORY BREMNER … WHO ELSE? (Vera/Channel 4)
Invited contributor of topical gags to both series
Performer: Rory Bremner
Producers: Mark Robson, Jon Magnusson
THE 11 O’CLOCK SHOW (Talkback/Channel 4)
Invited contributor of topical gags to 4 series
Performers: Fred MacAulay, Daisy Donovan, Iain Lee, Sarah Alexander, Jon Holmes
Producers: Phil Clarke, Dominic English and others
THE BRIAN CONLEY SHOW (Pearson/ITV)
Invited member of topical gag writing team
Performer: Brian Conley
Producer: Mark Robson
THE TWO RONNIES (BBC1, ITV3)
News item in Series 11, Show 1
Performer: Ronnie Barker
Producer: Marcus Plantin
Invited contributor of topical news gags for this computer animation satire show.
Series One now available on DVD.
Performer: Dan Maier
Director: Henry Naylor
SEE HEAR (BBC2, BBC1)
Extracts from radio play "All Fingers and Thumbs" and interviews with cast and writer
Actor/Presenter: Fifi Garfield
Script extracts by: Alan Stafford
Interviewees: Alan Stafford, Bill Nighy, Susannah Doyle
Editor: Terry Riley
BREMNER, BIRD & FORTUNE and RORY BREMNER … WHO ELSE? (Vera/Channel 4)
Invited contributor of topical gags to both series
Performer: Rory Bremner
Producers: Mark Robson, Jon Magnusson
THE 11 O’CLOCK SHOW (Talkback/Channel 4)
Invited contributor of topical gags to 4 series
Performers: Fred MacAulay, Daisy Donovan, Iain Lee, Sarah Alexander, Jon Holmes
Producers: Phil Clarke, Dominic English and others
THE BRIAN CONLEY SHOW (Pearson/ITV)
Invited member of topical gag writing team
Performer: Brian Conley
Producer: Mark Robson
THE TWO RONNIES (BBC1, ITV3)
News item in Series 11, Show 1
Performer: Ronnie Barker
Producer: Marcus Plantin
Radio
HOFFNUNG - DRAWN TO MUSIC (Above The Title/Radio 4)
Commissioned Afternoon Play, broadcast on 28th September 2009, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the death of cartoonist and musical humorist Gerard Hoffnung.
Script and new music: Alan Stafford
Cast: Matt Lucas, Gina McKee, Hugh Bonneville, Felicity Montagu, Nicholas Jones, Stephen Boswell, Jon Glover, Annetta Hoffnung
Musicians: Alan Stafford, Geoff Webb
Studio Manager: Gerry O'Riordan
Editor: Rex Brough
Director: Lissa Evans
Producer: Adam Bromley
PICK OF THE WEEK (Radio 4)
Extract from Hoffnung Drawn To Music
Presenter: Clive Coleman
Extracts from Sound the Horne
Presenter: Stuart Henderson
Extracts from Comedy Playhouse, Shows 1 & 2
Presenters: Ned Sherrin, Emily Buchanan
Extract from Absent Friends, Show 4.
Presenter: Simon Fanshawe
Extract from All Fingers and Thumbs
Presenter: Arthur Smith
THOROUGHLY MODEST MOLLIE (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of this documentary about Kenneth Horne's ghostwriter. Conducted the interviews and selected the archive clips. Broadcast on Thursday 18th September 2008 on Radio 4.
Presenter: Bernard Cribbins
Script: Alan Stafford
Studio guests: Bill Pertwee, Jonathan Rigby (as Kenneth Horne)
Interviewees: Mollie Millest, Peter Sharp
Producer: Stephen Garner
THE NEWS QUIZ (Radio 4, BBC7)
Commissioned additional writer of Sandi's script.
Performer: Sandi Toksvig
Producer: Ed Morrish
HENRY'S GIRLS (Above the Title/Radio 4)
Commissioned Afternoon Play, broadcast 15 May 2007. All vocal music was performed by the actors and choir.
Cast: Robert Glenister, Naoko Mori, Robert Duncan, Nichola McAuliffe, Chloe Annett, Saskia Butler, Catherine Shepherd, Brian Bowles
Musicians: Alan Stafford, Katherine Joyce
Singers: Naoko Mori, Catherine Shepherd, Saskia Butler, Robert Duncan
Choir: Capella Nova, conducted by Lindsay Blay
Producer/Director: Dirk Maggs
ABSENT FRIENDS - SERIES 2 (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/deviser of this second 3-part comedy documentary series about unseen characters in comedy shows, broadcast in March 2007 and repeated on July 30, August 6 & 13 at 11.30 pm. Personally interviewed Brian Dooley, Cass Allen, Denis Norden & David Croft. ("a thoroughly joyous listen" - Frances Lass, Radio Times)
1: Children and Animals (Mrs Raven's Triplets, Abigail's Party, Psyche the Dog, Mrs Slocombe's Pussy)
2: A World Of Their Own (Edna Everage, Lily Savage, Tom Mennard, Joyce Grenfell)
3: Odd People, Odd Places (Copthorne Avenue, Lally & Willetts, Peter Geekie, Ben from the post room)
Presenter: Tony Hawks
Script: Alan Stafford
Series interviewees: Cass Allen, Brian Dooley, Paul Mendelsohn, Denis Norden, David Croft
Producer: Angela Sherwin
SOUND THE HORNE (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of this 30-minute documentary celebrating the centenary of the birth of Kenneth Horne. Also conducted some of the interviews, which were all recorded especially for the programme. Broadcast on 25th & 27th February 2007.
Presenter: Jimmy Carr
Script: Alan Stafford
Interviewees: Barry Johnston, Bill Pertwee, Mollie Millest, Belinda Innes, Tim Murdoch, Jonathan Rigby, Brian Cooke, Georgy Jamieson
Producer: Stephen Garner
PARSONS AND NAYLOR'S PULL-OUT SECTIONS (Radio 2, BBC7)
Commissioned writer for 6 series and 1 special. Sketch and stand-up material on 7 series and 2 specials.
Performers: Andy Parsons, Henry Naylor, Richie Webb, Julia Morris, Jackie Clune
Producers: Carol Smith, Katie Tyrrell, Claire Jones, Gareth Edwards
MR MURGATROYD & MR WINTERBOTTOM (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of documentary programme about an innovative 1930s comedy double-act, formed by Tommy Handley and Ronald Frankau. Interviewed three contributors and also provided some of the archive recordings. Broadcast in November 2006.
Presenter: Nicholas Frankau
Script: Alan Stafford
Inteviewees: John Frankau, Rosemary Frankau, Kit Hesketh-Harvey, Mike Craig, Ken Dodd.
Producer: Angela Sherwin
EITHER TOO YOUNG OR TOO OLD (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of 2-part comedy documentary series about character comics who specialise in playing children or old people. Conducted all the new interviews and also involved in research. Broadcast in August 2006 and repeated in December 2006.
1: Acting Like Kids (Harry Hemsley, Georgie Wood, Norman & Henry Bones, Sophie Tuckshop, Vicky Pollard, Susan Sheridan)
2: Old Before Their Time (Frank Randle, Clive Dunn, Blanco, Count Arthur Strong, The Wrinklies)
Presenter: Morwenna Banks
Script: Alan Stafford
Interviewees: Susan Sheridan, Roy Hudd, Stephen Delaney (Count Arthur)
Producer: Angela Sherwin
ABSENT FRIENDS (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/deviser of 4-part comedy documentary series about unseen characters in comedy shows, first broadcast in May-June 2005 and repeated in June 2006. All interviews were recorded especially for the series. Personally interviewed Denis Norden, Jimmy Perry and David Croft and also involved in research.
1: Housewives and Honeys (Elizabeth Mainwaring, Mrs Glum, Nausea Bagwash, Samantha)
2: Losers and Dead Losses ("The Lad", Ozzie Higginbottom, Cynthia, Granville's mum, Henry)
3: Bosses and Bossy-Boots (Joe Maplin, God, Miss Mountshaft, Reggie Perrin's Mother-In-Law)
4: Scribes, Scribblers and Telephone Callers (Mrs Trellis, My Bruvver Sid, Darcy Sarto, Mr Veedle)
Presenter: Tony Hawks
Script: Alan Stafford
Series interviewees: Jimmy Perry, David Croft, Denis Norden, Dick Clement, Ian La Frenais, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Jim Casey, Simon Brett, Mike Craig
Producer: Angela Sherwin
COMEDY PLAYHOUSE (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of two 30-minute programmes about the long-running TV series that spawned many classic sitcoms. Broadcast in November 2005 and repeated in October 2006
1: Rags, Bones, Bishops and Silly Moos. (The first 7 seasons - including Steptoe & Son, All Gas & Gaiters, Meet The Wife and Till Death Us Do Part)
2: Carla, Clegg and Inside Legs. (Seasons 8 to 15 - including The Liver Birds, Are You Being Served and Last Of The Summer Wine)
Presenter: Tim Brooke-Taylor
Script: Alan Stafford
Series interviewees include: Bernard Cribbins, Pauline Devaney, Mike Craig, Robin Nash, Carla Lane, Peter Sallis and June Whitfield.
Producer: Stephen Garner
PUNT AND DENNIS: IT'S BEEN A BAD WEEK (Celador/Radio 2)
Commissioned writer for 6 series. Sketches and gags on 8 series.
Performers: Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis, Sue Perkins, Toby Longworth, Simon Greenall, Mitch Benn, Laura Shavin, Tracy-Ann Oberman
Producer: Nick Canner
ALL FINGERS AND THUMBS (Above the Title/Radio 4)
Commissioned afternoon play, transmitted 29th December 2004 and repeated on 3rd January 2007
Cast: Bill Nighy, Susannah Doyle, Jenny Eclair, Felicity Montagu, Steve Day, Fifi Garfield, Brian Bowles
Producer/Director: Dirk Maggs
"This highly entertaining play boasts the winning combination of witty writer Alan Stafford and national treasure Bill Nighy. Not exactly cast against type, Nighy plays a roguish theatre director who takes exception to the sign language interpreter 'mugging away like a Frankie Howerd tribute act' on the edge of his stage. Working on the basis that 'a few drinks can save an awful lot of pussy-footing', he insults her but then decides he would like to get to know her better ... Susannah Doyle co-stars in what turns into a touching romance and a non-preachy exploration of issues surrounding deafness." (Stephanie Billen - Observer)
BARRY CRYER'S COMEDY GREATS (BBC7)
Several news gags from Week Ending
Performers: David Tate, Daniel Strauss
Producer: Diane Messias
THE RIGHT TIME (Radio 4)
Invited contributor of many sketches over 2 series. Series writer credit on Radio 4 webpage
Performers: Graeme Garden, Clive Swift, Paula Wilcox, Eleanor Bron, Roger Blake
Producers: Katie Marsden, Claire Jones
THE GRIFF RHYS JONES SHOW (Talkback/Radio 2)
Invited regular sketch and gag writer for the series
Performers: Griff Rhys Jones, Russ Abbot, Simon Godley, Geoffrey McGivern
Producer: Nick Canner
THE NEWS HUDDLINES and CHRISTMAS WITH THE NEWS HUDDLINES (Radio 2)
Commissioned gag and sketch writer. Gags on 10 series, sketches on 6 series
Performers: Roy Hudd, June Whitfield, Chris Emmett
Producers: Carol Smith, Steve Doherty and others
LOOSE ENDS (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer of news monologues
Performer: Ned Sherrin
Producers: Chris Wilson, Mairi Russell
THE RUSS ABBOT SHOW (Celador/Radio 2)
Invited sketch writer for 2 series. Created regular character of ham actor Sir Teddington Lock for 4 sketches plus several others
Performers: Russ Abbot, Bella Emberg, Suzy Aitchison, Chris Emmett, Jeffrey Holland
Producer: Dirk Maggs
THE TREATMENT (Radio 5 Live)
Invited topical sketch and gag contributor
Performers: Stuart Maconie, Laura Shavin, Toby Longworth
Script Editor: Kevin Day
NIGHTCAP (Radio 2)
Regular sketch writer throughout series. Series writer credit in Radio Times
Performers: Peter Dickson, Sarah Thomas, Neil Mullarkey, Nick Wilton, Caroline Gruber, Chris Emmett, Jon Glover, Phil Cornwell, Phil Nice and others.
Producers: Mark Robson, Harry Thompson
WEEK ENDING (Radio 4) and TWO CHEERS FOR ... (World Service)
Writer of topical gags for 9 series of Week Ending (4 series with Bridget A. Leathley and 1 series with Andrea Davidson) and two editions of Two Cheers For ...
Performers: Bill Wallis, David Tate, Jon Glover, Sally Grace, Alistair McGowan, Daniel Strauss, Jeffrey Holland, David Hale, Toby Longworth
Producers: Jo Clegg, Jane Berthoud, Aled Evans, Jon Naismith, Gareth Edwards, Diane Messias, Paul Schlesinger, Harry Thompson, Armando Ianucci, Neil Cargill, Bill Dare, Lissa Evans, Andy Wilson, Dan Patterson
THICK FAST PANTS (Radio 4 commissioned pilot script)
Invited contributor of sketches
DIRTY TRICKS (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer of 30 minute comedy drama
Cast: Rodney Bewes, Polly James, Crawford Logan, Miranda Forbes, Mary Cornford
Producer: Michael Bartlett
Commissioned Afternoon Play, broadcast on 28th September 2009, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the death of cartoonist and musical humorist Gerard Hoffnung.
Script and new music: Alan Stafford
Cast: Matt Lucas, Gina McKee, Hugh Bonneville, Felicity Montagu, Nicholas Jones, Stephen Boswell, Jon Glover, Annetta Hoffnung
Musicians: Alan Stafford, Geoff Webb
Studio Manager: Gerry O'Riordan
Editor: Rex Brough
Director: Lissa Evans
Producer: Adam Bromley
PICK OF THE WEEK (Radio 4)
Extract from Hoffnung Drawn To Music
Presenter: Clive Coleman
Extracts from Sound the Horne
Presenter: Stuart Henderson
Extracts from Comedy Playhouse, Shows 1 & 2
Presenters: Ned Sherrin, Emily Buchanan
Extract from Absent Friends, Show 4.
Presenter: Simon Fanshawe
Extract from All Fingers and Thumbs
Presenter: Arthur Smith
THOROUGHLY MODEST MOLLIE (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of this documentary about Kenneth Horne's ghostwriter. Conducted the interviews and selected the archive clips. Broadcast on Thursday 18th September 2008 on Radio 4.
Presenter: Bernard Cribbins
Script: Alan Stafford
Studio guests: Bill Pertwee, Jonathan Rigby (as Kenneth Horne)
Interviewees: Mollie Millest, Peter Sharp
Producer: Stephen Garner
THE NEWS QUIZ (Radio 4, BBC7)
Commissioned additional writer of Sandi's script.
Performer: Sandi Toksvig
Producer: Ed Morrish
HENRY'S GIRLS (Above the Title/Radio 4)
Commissioned Afternoon Play, broadcast 15 May 2007. All vocal music was performed by the actors and choir.
Cast: Robert Glenister, Naoko Mori, Robert Duncan, Nichola McAuliffe, Chloe Annett, Saskia Butler, Catherine Shepherd, Brian Bowles
Musicians: Alan Stafford, Katherine Joyce
Singers: Naoko Mori, Catherine Shepherd, Saskia Butler, Robert Duncan
Choir: Capella Nova, conducted by Lindsay Blay
Producer/Director: Dirk Maggs
ABSENT FRIENDS - SERIES 2 (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/deviser of this second 3-part comedy documentary series about unseen characters in comedy shows, broadcast in March 2007 and repeated on July 30, August 6 & 13 at 11.30 pm. Personally interviewed Brian Dooley, Cass Allen, Denis Norden & David Croft. ("a thoroughly joyous listen" - Frances Lass, Radio Times)
1: Children and Animals (Mrs Raven's Triplets, Abigail's Party, Psyche the Dog, Mrs Slocombe's Pussy)
2: A World Of Their Own (Edna Everage, Lily Savage, Tom Mennard, Joyce Grenfell)
3: Odd People, Odd Places (Copthorne Avenue, Lally & Willetts, Peter Geekie, Ben from the post room)
Presenter: Tony Hawks
Script: Alan Stafford
Series interviewees: Cass Allen, Brian Dooley, Paul Mendelsohn, Denis Norden, David Croft
Producer: Angela Sherwin
SOUND THE HORNE (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of this 30-minute documentary celebrating the centenary of the birth of Kenneth Horne. Also conducted some of the interviews, which were all recorded especially for the programme. Broadcast on 25th & 27th February 2007.
Presenter: Jimmy Carr
Script: Alan Stafford
Interviewees: Barry Johnston, Bill Pertwee, Mollie Millest, Belinda Innes, Tim Murdoch, Jonathan Rigby, Brian Cooke, Georgy Jamieson
Producer: Stephen Garner
PARSONS AND NAYLOR'S PULL-OUT SECTIONS (Radio 2, BBC7)
Commissioned writer for 6 series and 1 special. Sketch and stand-up material on 7 series and 2 specials.
Performers: Andy Parsons, Henry Naylor, Richie Webb, Julia Morris, Jackie Clune
Producers: Carol Smith, Katie Tyrrell, Claire Jones, Gareth Edwards
MR MURGATROYD & MR WINTERBOTTOM (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of documentary programme about an innovative 1930s comedy double-act, formed by Tommy Handley and Ronald Frankau. Interviewed three contributors and also provided some of the archive recordings. Broadcast in November 2006.
Presenter: Nicholas Frankau
Script: Alan Stafford
Inteviewees: John Frankau, Rosemary Frankau, Kit Hesketh-Harvey, Mike Craig, Ken Dodd.
Producer: Angela Sherwin
EITHER TOO YOUNG OR TOO OLD (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of 2-part comedy documentary series about character comics who specialise in playing children or old people. Conducted all the new interviews and also involved in research. Broadcast in August 2006 and repeated in December 2006.
1: Acting Like Kids (Harry Hemsley, Georgie Wood, Norman & Henry Bones, Sophie Tuckshop, Vicky Pollard, Susan Sheridan)
2: Old Before Their Time (Frank Randle, Clive Dunn, Blanco, Count Arthur Strong, The Wrinklies)
Presenter: Morwenna Banks
Script: Alan Stafford
Interviewees: Susan Sheridan, Roy Hudd, Stephen Delaney (Count Arthur)
Producer: Angela Sherwin
ABSENT FRIENDS (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/deviser of 4-part comedy documentary series about unseen characters in comedy shows, first broadcast in May-June 2005 and repeated in June 2006. All interviews were recorded especially for the series. Personally interviewed Denis Norden, Jimmy Perry and David Croft and also involved in research.
1: Housewives and Honeys (Elizabeth Mainwaring, Mrs Glum, Nausea Bagwash, Samantha)
2: Losers and Dead Losses ("The Lad", Ozzie Higginbottom, Cynthia, Granville's mum, Henry)
3: Bosses and Bossy-Boots (Joe Maplin, God, Miss Mountshaft, Reggie Perrin's Mother-In-Law)
4: Scribes, Scribblers and Telephone Callers (Mrs Trellis, My Bruvver Sid, Darcy Sarto, Mr Veedle)
Presenter: Tony Hawks
Script: Alan Stafford
Series interviewees: Jimmy Perry, David Croft, Denis Norden, Dick Clement, Ian La Frenais, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Jim Casey, Simon Brett, Mike Craig
Producer: Angela Sherwin
COMEDY PLAYHOUSE (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer/researcher of two 30-minute programmes about the long-running TV series that spawned many classic sitcoms. Broadcast in November 2005 and repeated in October 2006
1: Rags, Bones, Bishops and Silly Moos. (The first 7 seasons - including Steptoe & Son, All Gas & Gaiters, Meet The Wife and Till Death Us Do Part)
2: Carla, Clegg and Inside Legs. (Seasons 8 to 15 - including The Liver Birds, Are You Being Served and Last Of The Summer Wine)
Presenter: Tim Brooke-Taylor
Script: Alan Stafford
Series interviewees include: Bernard Cribbins, Pauline Devaney, Mike Craig, Robin Nash, Carla Lane, Peter Sallis and June Whitfield.
Producer: Stephen Garner
PUNT AND DENNIS: IT'S BEEN A BAD WEEK (Celador/Radio 2)
Commissioned writer for 6 series. Sketches and gags on 8 series.
Performers: Steve Punt, Hugh Dennis, Sue Perkins, Toby Longworth, Simon Greenall, Mitch Benn, Laura Shavin, Tracy-Ann Oberman
Producer: Nick Canner
ALL FINGERS AND THUMBS (Above the Title/Radio 4)
Commissioned afternoon play, transmitted 29th December 2004 and repeated on 3rd January 2007
Cast: Bill Nighy, Susannah Doyle, Jenny Eclair, Felicity Montagu, Steve Day, Fifi Garfield, Brian Bowles
Producer/Director: Dirk Maggs
"This highly entertaining play boasts the winning combination of witty writer Alan Stafford and national treasure Bill Nighy. Not exactly cast against type, Nighy plays a roguish theatre director who takes exception to the sign language interpreter 'mugging away like a Frankie Howerd tribute act' on the edge of his stage. Working on the basis that 'a few drinks can save an awful lot of pussy-footing', he insults her but then decides he would like to get to know her better ... Susannah Doyle co-stars in what turns into a touching romance and a non-preachy exploration of issues surrounding deafness." (Stephanie Billen - Observer)
BARRY CRYER'S COMEDY GREATS (BBC7)
Several news gags from Week Ending
Performers: David Tate, Daniel Strauss
Producer: Diane Messias
THE RIGHT TIME (Radio 4)
Invited contributor of many sketches over 2 series. Series writer credit on Radio 4 webpage
Performers: Graeme Garden, Clive Swift, Paula Wilcox, Eleanor Bron, Roger Blake
Producers: Katie Marsden, Claire Jones
THE GRIFF RHYS JONES SHOW (Talkback/Radio 2)
Invited regular sketch and gag writer for the series
Performers: Griff Rhys Jones, Russ Abbot, Simon Godley, Geoffrey McGivern
Producer: Nick Canner
THE NEWS HUDDLINES and CHRISTMAS WITH THE NEWS HUDDLINES (Radio 2)
Commissioned gag and sketch writer. Gags on 10 series, sketches on 6 series
Performers: Roy Hudd, June Whitfield, Chris Emmett
Producers: Carol Smith, Steve Doherty and others
LOOSE ENDS (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer of news monologues
Performer: Ned Sherrin
Producers: Chris Wilson, Mairi Russell
THE RUSS ABBOT SHOW (Celador/Radio 2)
Invited sketch writer for 2 series. Created regular character of ham actor Sir Teddington Lock for 4 sketches plus several others
Performers: Russ Abbot, Bella Emberg, Suzy Aitchison, Chris Emmett, Jeffrey Holland
Producer: Dirk Maggs
THE TREATMENT (Radio 5 Live)
Invited topical sketch and gag contributor
Performers: Stuart Maconie, Laura Shavin, Toby Longworth
Script Editor: Kevin Day
NIGHTCAP (Radio 2)
Regular sketch writer throughout series. Series writer credit in Radio Times
Performers: Peter Dickson, Sarah Thomas, Neil Mullarkey, Nick Wilton, Caroline Gruber, Chris Emmett, Jon Glover, Phil Cornwell, Phil Nice and others.
Producers: Mark Robson, Harry Thompson
WEEK ENDING (Radio 4) and TWO CHEERS FOR ... (World Service)
Writer of topical gags for 9 series of Week Ending (4 series with Bridget A. Leathley and 1 series with Andrea Davidson) and two editions of Two Cheers For ...
Performers: Bill Wallis, David Tate, Jon Glover, Sally Grace, Alistair McGowan, Daniel Strauss, Jeffrey Holland, David Hale, Toby Longworth
Producers: Jo Clegg, Jane Berthoud, Aled Evans, Jon Naismith, Gareth Edwards, Diane Messias, Paul Schlesinger, Harry Thompson, Armando Ianucci, Neil Cargill, Bill Dare, Lissa Evans, Andy Wilson, Dan Patterson
THICK FAST PANTS (Radio 4 commissioned pilot script)
Invited contributor of sketches
DIRTY TRICKS (Radio 4)
Commissioned writer of 30 minute comedy drama
Cast: Rodney Bewes, Polly James, Crawford Logan, Miranda Forbes, Mary Cornford
Producer: Michael Bartlett
Stage
TEN MINUTE MUSICAL CHALLENGE (Greenwich Theatre, London)
"Leave It To The Monkeys" - a musical inspired by an article in the Financial Times of 11th February 2006. Devised, written and rehearsed that day - and premiered at 7.00 pm the same evening.
Script: Alan Stafford
Music & Lyrics: Michael Bruce & Saul Jaffe
Performers: Giles Alderson & Joanna Ampil
Directors: Fiona Laird & Mike Dixon
NEWSREVUE (Canal Caf� Theatre, London)
Contributor of topical song lyrics and several sketches
SKIT-SHARED (Edinburgh Fringe Festival)
Sketch writer/performer in comedy duo
RANSOM SUMS & GEOFFREY and DUNCAN’S BUNKER
One-act comedy plays performed in Sir John Mills Theatre and other Suffolk venues.
"Leave It To The Monkeys" - a musical inspired by an article in the Financial Times of 11th February 2006. Devised, written and rehearsed that day - and premiered at 7.00 pm the same evening.
Script: Alan Stafford
Music & Lyrics: Michael Bruce & Saul Jaffe
Performers: Giles Alderson & Joanna Ampil
Directors: Fiona Laird & Mike Dixon
NEWSREVUE (Canal Caf� Theatre, London)
Contributor of topical song lyrics and several sketches
SKIT-SHARED (Edinburgh Fringe Festival)
Sketch writer/performer in comedy duo
RANSOM SUMS & GEOFFREY and DUNCAN’S BUNKER
One-act comedy plays performed in Sir John Mills Theatre and other Suffolk venues.
Books and Magazines
PRIME MINISTER, YOU WANTED TO SEE ME? – A HISTORY
OF WEEK ENDING (Ian Greaves and Justin Lewis, Kaleidoscope Publishing,
ISBN 978 1 900203 29 6)
Contains full details of all Week Ending writing credits
RADIO TIMES GUIDE TO TV COMEDY - 2003 EDITION (Mark Lewisohn, BBC, ISBN: 0 563 48755 0)
Writing credits included
Gags quoted in THE PEOPLE (Garry Bushell), THE MIRROR (Scurra), THE STAGE (John Martland's radio review) and RADIO TIMES (Radio Choice)
THE LISTENER, QUIZ DIGEST and GYLES BRANDRETH'S (ALMOST) IMPOSSIBLE CROSSWORD BOOK
Novelty cryptic crosswords (under the name Convar)
Contains full details of all Week Ending writing credits
RADIO TIMES GUIDE TO TV COMEDY - 2003 EDITION (Mark Lewisohn, BBC, ISBN: 0 563 48755 0)
Writing credits included
Gags quoted in THE PEOPLE (Garry Bushell), THE MIRROR (Scurra), THE STAGE (John Martland's radio review) and RADIO TIMES (Radio Choice)
THE LISTENER, QUIZ DIGEST and GYLES BRANDRETH'S (ALMOST) IMPOSSIBLE CROSSWORD BOOK
Novelty cryptic crosswords (under the name Convar)
DVDs and CDs
HEADCASES (Series 1) DVD
Released 7th July 2008
Includes my Trevor MacDonald news gags
Released 7th July 2008
Includes my Trevor MacDonald news gags
Awards and Competitions
Radio sitcom pilot: CAST-OFFS in final shortlist of BBC TWO-TIMING competition.
Other
HOFFNUNG - DRAWN TO MUSIC
More information and cast photos on http://www.abovethetitle.com
HENRY'S GIRLS
More information and cast photos on http://www.dirkmaggs.dswilliams.co.uk/Dirk%20Maggs%20Henry%27s%20Girls%20.htm
ABSENT FRIENDS
An episode from this series can currently be heard online.
Bosses and Bossy-Boots is on http://www.whitehole-reddwarf.co.uk/index.php/2005/06/wrinkle-watch
THE BBC.CO.UK GUIDE TO COMEDY
'Alan Stafford' page and TV writing credits. Comedy Playhouse radio documentaries also mentioned on the Comedy Playhouse page.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/guide/talent/s/stafford_alan.shtml
IT MIGHT NEVER HAPPEN
Radio play recorded by BBC Radio Theatre Group at Broadcasting House, London
Cast: David Hooper, Juliet Dennis, Julian Powis, Michael Spitzer, Neva Missirian
Production: Charlotte Simon, Janine Maya-Smith, Alan Morgan
ALL FINGERS AND THUMBS
More information and cast photos on http://www.dirkmaggs.dswilliams.co.uk/dirk%20maggs%20All%20Fingers%20and%20Thumbs.htm
THE NEWS HUDDLINES
See what the Daily Mirror's "Scurra" column thought of my Cliff Richard gag on http://web.nwe.ufl.edu/~jdouglas/Daily_Mirror.pdf
THE RUSS ABBOT SHOW
One of my Sir Teddington Lock sketches was featured in the National Audio Theater Festival 2003, held in the Ozark Mountains, USA
11 O'CLOCK SHOW
Topical gags on website
AN A-Z OF PERFORMERS I'VE WRITTEN FOR...
Russ Abbot, Suzy Aitchison, Sarah Alexander, Chloe Annett.
Morwenna Banks, Ronnie Barker, Rodney Bewes, Mitch Benn, Roger Blake, Hugh Bonneville, Stephen Boswell, Brian Bowles, Rory Bremner, Eleanor Bron, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Saskia Butler.
Jimmy Carr, Jackie Clune, Brian Conley, Mary Cornford, Phil Cornwell, Bernard Cribbins.
Steve Day, Hugh Dennis, Peter Dickson, Daisy Donovan, Susannah Doyle, Robert Duncan.
Jenny Eclair, Bella Emberg, Chris Emmett.
Miranda Forbes, Nicholas Frankau.
Graeme Garden, Fifi Garfield, Robert Glenister, Jon Glover, Simon Godley, Sally Grace, Simon Greenall, Caroline Gruber.
David Hale, Tony Hawks, Annetta Hoffnung, Jeffrey Holland, Jon Holmes, Roy Hudd.
Polly James, Nicholas Jones.
Iain Lee, Crawford Logan, Toby Longworth, Matt Lucas.
Fred MacAulay, Nichola McAuliffe, Geoff McGivern, Alistair McGowan, Gina McKee, Stuart Maconie, Dan Maier, Felicity Montagu, Naoko Mori, Julia Morris, Neil Mullarkey.
Henry Naylor, Phil Nice, Bill Nighy.
Tracy-Ann Oberman.
Andy Parsons, Sue Perkins, Bill Pertwee, Steve Punt.
Griff Rhys Jones, Jonathan Rigby.
Laura Shavin, Catherine Shepherd, Ned Sherrin, Daniel Strauss, Clive Swift.
David Tate, Sarah Thomas, Sandi Toksvig.
Bill Wallis, Richie Webb, June Whitfield, Paula Wilcox, Nick Wilton.
More information and cast photos on http://www.abovethetitle.com
HENRY'S GIRLS
More information and cast photos on http://www.dirkmaggs.dswilliams.co.uk/Dirk%20Maggs%20Henry%27s%20Girls%20.htm
ABSENT FRIENDS
An episode from this series can currently be heard online.
Bosses and Bossy-Boots is on http://www.whitehole-reddwarf.co.uk/index.php/2005/06/wrinkle-watch
THE BBC.CO.UK GUIDE TO COMEDY
'Alan Stafford' page and TV writing credits. Comedy Playhouse radio documentaries also mentioned on the Comedy Playhouse page.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/guide/talent/s/stafford_alan.shtml
IT MIGHT NEVER HAPPEN
Radio play recorded by BBC Radio Theatre Group at Broadcasting House, London
Cast: David Hooper, Juliet Dennis, Julian Powis, Michael Spitzer, Neva Missirian
Production: Charlotte Simon, Janine Maya-Smith, Alan Morgan
ALL FINGERS AND THUMBS
More information and cast photos on http://www.dirkmaggs.dswilliams.co.uk/dirk%20maggs%20All%20Fingers%20and%20Thumbs.htm
THE NEWS HUDDLINES
See what the Daily Mirror's "Scurra" column thought of my Cliff Richard gag on http://web.nwe.ufl.edu/~jdouglas/Daily_Mirror.pdf
THE RUSS ABBOT SHOW
One of my Sir Teddington Lock sketches was featured in the National Audio Theater Festival 2003, held in the Ozark Mountains, USA
11 O'CLOCK SHOW
Topical gags on website
AN A-Z OF PERFORMERS I'VE WRITTEN FOR...
Russ Abbot, Suzy Aitchison, Sarah Alexander, Chloe Annett.
Morwenna Banks, Ronnie Barker, Rodney Bewes, Mitch Benn, Roger Blake, Hugh Bonneville, Stephen Boswell, Brian Bowles, Rory Bremner, Eleanor Bron, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Saskia Butler.
Jimmy Carr, Jackie Clune, Brian Conley, Mary Cornford, Phil Cornwell, Bernard Cribbins.
Steve Day, Hugh Dennis, Peter Dickson, Daisy Donovan, Susannah Doyle, Robert Duncan.
Jenny Eclair, Bella Emberg, Chris Emmett.
Miranda Forbes, Nicholas Frankau.
Graeme Garden, Fifi Garfield, Robert Glenister, Jon Glover, Simon Godley, Sally Grace, Simon Greenall, Caroline Gruber.
David Hale, Tony Hawks, Annetta Hoffnung, Jeffrey Holland, Jon Holmes, Roy Hudd.
Polly James, Nicholas Jones.
Iain Lee, Crawford Logan, Toby Longworth, Matt Lucas.
Fred MacAulay, Nichola McAuliffe, Geoff McGivern, Alistair McGowan, Gina McKee, Stuart Maconie, Dan Maier, Felicity Montagu, Naoko Mori, Julia Morris, Neil Mullarkey.
Henry Naylor, Phil Nice, Bill Nighy.
Tracy-Ann Oberman.
Andy Parsons, Sue Perkins, Bill Pertwee, Steve Punt.
Griff Rhys Jones, Jonathan Rigby.
Laura Shavin, Catherine Shepherd, Ned Sherrin, Daniel Strauss, Clive Swift.
David Tate, Sarah Thomas, Sandi Toksvig.
Bill Wallis, Richie Webb, June Whitfield, Paula Wilcox, Nick Wilton.
Current Projects
New comedy documentary commissioned for 2010
Plays, comedies and documentaries in development.
Plays, comedies and documentaries in development.
Other Samples
Telephone
+44 (0)1473 682442
Email
Website