Doctor Who: The Sirens of Time (1999) - AudioReview

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Release date: July 1999
Writer: Nicholas Briggs. Director: Nicholas Briggs

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The Doctor's back, and it's about time...

In 1989, the longest running science fiction show came to an abrupt end. No farewell story to thank the fans for their loyalty, no handshake for the cast and crew who had worked so passionately. Instead, actor Sylvester McCoy was required to add closing dialogue to the final serial, "Survival" - "There are worlds out there where the sky is burning, and the sea's asleep, and the rivers dream; people made of smoke and cities made of song. Somewhere there's danger, somewhere there's injustice, and somewhere else the tea's getting cold. Come on, Ace. We've got work to do." 

Of course, those weren't the last ever lines spoken for the series... in 1996 a television movie was produced, starring Paul McGann as the Eighth Doctor and featuring a guest appearance by McCoy. But, seeing as no further production followed writer Matthew Jacobs's attempt, the "Classic" era was over.

Big Finish will always have a special place in my heart, for they did something quite remarkable: resurrected the Doctor, and persuaded actors Peter Davison, Colin Baker and Sylvester McCoy to reprise their most famous of roles. I can still remember how it felt to own "The Sirens of Time" on CD. It was a magnificent feeling, knowing that I was about to embark on a new adventure with a Time Lord. 1999 was 1989 all over again, with the past ten years seeming as if they had never happened at all...

The plot: Gallifrey, and time itself, is being threatened by the presence of an alien race, whose technologically-advanced warships have surrounded the Time Lords' home planet. And it seems that the Doctor is somehow involved... Written and directed by the legendary Nicholas Briggs (should I mention that he was also responsible for the music and sound design?), this first step for Big Finish into official Doctor Who territory simply cannot be faulted. As with the majority of the early audios produced, "Sirens" is a four-part story, with the first three focusing on each Doctor - Seventh, Fifth and Sixth - and the final part bringing them all together to face the villains of the piece. And it is a welcome decision not to include Daleks in this debut outing...


No Ace up the Doctor's sleeve

Part One reintroduces us to the Seventh Doctor (portrayed by McCoy) as he is drawn to a planet where spacecraft are crashing; a mysterious old woman called Ruthley looks after an equally mysterious gentleman, Sancroft; and a young girl named Elenya (Sarah Mowat) needs rescuing. Out of the three, Ruthley is a very unpleasant creature indeed, with her prime focus being on her own survival above all else - those familiar with this audio range might be interested to know that Ruthley is played by Maggie Stables, who later goes on to portray the role of Evelyn Smythe, companion to the Sixth Doctor in the first "original" pairing for Big Finish. There is much to dislike about Ruthley, and her own feelings mirror similar dislike towards those who are unfortunate enough to be within her company.

Companionless in this one, McCoy easily fits back into the role he had briefly revisited during the 1996 TV movie. We are also introduced to The Knights of Velyshaa.


"The Time Lords really do want me dead!"

Part Two focuses on the Fifth Doctor, and his encounter with the crew of a German U-boat. He is also joined by Helen (Mowat), the only other survivor of a British freighter torpedoed moments earlier. Though rescued by the German crew, it is clear that the danger is far from over. Determined to recover his TARDIS, the Doctor finds himself at the hands of his own people when they use a crewmember, Schmidt, to try and kill him following time distortion. This is the work of Coordinator Vansell (Anthony Keetch), a member of the Celestial Intervention Agency. The situation is a desperate one as Vansell believes the Doctor is somehow responsible for history to be altered - preventing him from reaching his TARDIS is a priority in saving the Time Lords and restoring the course of history!


"Would you please keep the noise down, old chap?"

Part Three brings us a Sixth Doctor who finds himself at some conference on a spacecraft, the Edifice, in the Kurgon system. They are present to investigate the Kurgon Wonder, a spatial anomaly. Things turn bad when more time distortion affects the ship, killing everyone except for the Doctor, a waitress named Ellie (Mowat), and an android. One of the threads through all parts of the story is the young woman that the Doctor encounters in his three incarnations. Just who is she? Mowat certainly delivers a strong performance with each character. She would later go on to play Susan Mendes in Big Finish's Dalek Empire series.


"Beware the Sirens of Time..."

And so to Gallifrey, and the Doctors are brought together in the final fourth part. In television history we've only ever seen multiple Doctor adventures three times: The Three Doctors (1973), The Five Doctors (1983) and The Two Doctors (1985). We could include Dimensions in Time (1993) though it is not official canon as it was a charity event crossover with a British soap, Eastenders.

It is rather lovely hearing Peter, Colin and Sylvester meet up, it's definitely a reunion with old friends. As the plot evolves we learn that beyond the Doctor, the Time Lords, and even the Knights of Velyshaa, there is a menacing threat that feeds on the energies of chaos, and that it is these creatures who have been pulling the strings and manipulating since the start.

It is difficult to think of a better beginning than The Sirens of Time, it sets a nice standard that Big Finish absolutely builds on and improves over the following years. It seems unbelievable that, at time of writing this article, Sirens of Time is 20 years old! Just where has that time gone? I'm sure the Doctor knows...


Beyond the Sirens...

Co-ordinator Vansell will return in several audios including The Apocalypse Element, Neverland, and the spin-off Gallifrey range.

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Doctor Who: The Curse of Davros (2012) - AudioReview

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Release date: January 2012
Writer: Jonathan Morris. Director: Nicholas Briggs

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Escaping The Daleks...

The return of the Daleks is always a welcome one. And if that story happens to include a certain Kaled scientist, then much the better. In The Curse of Davros we are reunited with Philippa "Flip" Jackson (Lisa Greenwood) and her boyfriend Jared Ramon, who we last encountered in The Crimes of Thomas Brewster (2011). This time, however, the Doctor is alone and in danger. He is wanted by the Daleks. As the plot progresses we learn that his enemy can swap minds with Humans, literally taking over their physical bodies, using mind swapping technology created by Davros. The use of this weapon is obvious enough, allowing Daleks to move freely on Earth.

When Flip and Jared witness a spacecraft crashing in London, they go to investigate. The incident hasn't gone unnoticed and so it isn't long before the area is swarming with military and police officers. What DOES go unnoticed is the escape capsule that ejected from the main ship and landed nearby. From within, the Sixth Doctor emerges...

It has to be said that the casting is first rate in this one, and Big Finish delivers more often than not with their catalogue of audio adventures featuring EVERY Doctor they are fortunate to direct. It has also been an opportunity for BF to create an extension to what came before, building not just on the original television series that Colin Baker contributed to from 1984-86 but to add extra mythology surrounding the character. In the world of audio, the Sixth Doctor has met new companions such as Evelyn Smythe and Charlotte Pollard. They have been positive role models, feisty and curious, determined and loyal. These qualities can also be found in Flip. From the start she is unstoppable, a modern girl with a no nonsense approach, although she certainly has a heart.

One of the things that we do get to see in The Curse of Davros is that the Doctor - our Doctor - isn't quite himself. This gives Baker a nice juicy opportunity to step into someone else's shoes for a while, and it delivers nicely. When Jared is mind-swapped with a Dalek, the Time Lord and Flip go on the run. As usual, we see just how ruthless his deadly foes are when they threaten to exterminate a group of innocent people unless the Doctor surrenders. They clearly keep their word, as they did in Destiny of the Daleks (1979) when similarly they began systematically killing slaves until the Fourth Doctor gave in. This is what they know, and the price of a life means nothing except its usefulness as a weapon.


Meddling in history...

One moment we are on modern day Earth, the next we're witnessing the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. This is such a fantastic contrast, bringing new dynamics to the development of the play. Davros plans on using his mind-swapping tech to change Human history and aid Napoleon Bonaparte in defeating the British and Prussian armies. It would be catastrophic! Just think how the lyrics in a certain pop song from 1974 would differ, no more "At Waterloo Napoleon did surrender". But far more than that, such meddling would change the course of Human history.

Those familiar with BBC Books will recall a previous Doctor Who adventure set at the Battle of Waterloo. World Game, written by Terrance Dicks and published in 2005, featured the Second Doctor in a plot involving the Celestial Intervention Agency, Lady Serena, and Players (immortal beings who liked to tamper with history).


Holmes Vs Moriarty

Ever since he first appeared on our screens in 1975, Davros has become Moriarty to the Doctor's Holmes. With only a single televised story between them, Revelation of the Daleks (1985), it was always welcome when Big Finish decided to bring the two together again in audio. 2003's "Davros" is a particular favourite of mine. Out of all the Doctor's, Baker's incarnation feels the best fit to Terry Molloy's mad scientist. It is also fitting that this particular Doctor finally understands and shows empathy for his enemy, though that in itself doesn't stop the Gallifreyan from defeating him. We've always known that Davros' life is one of pain and suffering, though it is these that have kept him focused and hateful. Has he always been evil, or just ruthlessly efficient and practical? For that answer we have to look no further than "I, Davros", the four-part story also from Big Finish.


The adventure continues...

Given the opportunity to return home with boyfriend Jared, Flip instead decides to travel with the Doctor. This is very reminiscent of Rose Tyler's own reaction to embracing the chance of adventure through time and space. It also helps that Flip is very likeable, thanks to both the writing of the character and Greenwood's solid performance.


"Shall I compare thee to a summers day?"

How does this story compare to previous Dalek adventures? Well, it's an interesting mix, that's for sure. Over the years we've been treated to so many Dalek plots that it could easily become monotonous. The Curse of Davros, however, manages to keep a few surprises and delivers in the right areas. This is actually less about Daleks and more to do with rivalry between two old enemies: imagine if Davros could live again, without pain and mental torment... Imagine if the Doctor could spend the rest of his days trapped in a different kind of prison... It is a frightening concept indeed.

Looking on the Big Finish website I notice that they had the working title Waterloo of the Daleks, I'm so glad they changed it. Mention must also go to cover artist Simon Holub, who's work also includes favourites of mine such as "Doctor Who - The Companion Chronicles: Here There Be Monsters" and "Doctor Who - Robophobia". The use of blues in his The Curse of Davros looks stunning. I've just found some up and coming titles featuring his cover art and "Doctor Who: Interstitial / Feast of Fear" is particularly amazing!

I absolutely recommend The Curse of Davros, it is certainly an enjoyable ride through history. And you get to spend more time with Flip Jackson.

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Doctor Who: Series 11.1 - The Woman Who Fell to Earth

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Alwyn Ash reviews the debut of new Doctor Jodie Whittaker. Was it all hype and no substance, or has the Doctor Who team managed to produce a gem?


Though early days, Jodie's take on this new Doctor was a perfect blend of past Doctors

On Sunday 7th October 2018 a mysterious woman fell to Earth in spectacular fashion, crashing through the roof of a train and facing a sinister alien probe. Just another day at the office, then.

From the moment Peter Capaldi left the TARDIS in the 2017 Christmas special "Twice Upon a Time", it was inevitable his replacement would have big shoes to fill - the Scottish actor delivered award-winning performances during his stay from 2013-2017. The appointment of Jodie was a surprise to many, some fans even refusing to accept the casting. Thankfully the majority didn't feel this way, embracing the news and looking forward to a full season with this Thirteenth Doctor. So how did the first episode play out? I'm glad to say it was a success, in my opinion at least. A debut story isn't always the easiest to write for, especially as for the most part the newly-regenerated Doctor spends time adapting to a physical transformation. There was no shortage of humour throughout, thanks to writer and showrunner Chris Chibnall, and superb direction from Jamie Childs. The gender swap had no real significance beyond an acknowledgement that the Doctor had previously been a "white-haired Scotsman". Instead, the plot threw everyone straight into the action, well, following a short period of exposition, as two separate incidents occur in the South Yorkshire city of Sheffield. The Doctor quickly makes herself at home, making friends with total strangers and leading them on an investigation.

Though early days, Jodie's take on this new Doctor was a perfect blend of past Doctors: Number Three's love of gadgetry; Number Two, Eight and Ten's excitable childlike quality, and Seven's scheming. It is a wonderful mix of excitement, curiosity and the desire to do good, just as any previous incarnation would have done. There is no doubt, Jodie Whittaker is the Doctor!

The Stenza makes for an intriguing new enemy and it will be interesting to see if they return in future stories. Tzim-Sha's arrival was a simple one: to locate and collect a trophy, in this case a Human male. Success in this act would result in claiming leadership of the Stenza. The Doctor's intentional calling of him as "Tim Shaw" was brilliant, I'd likely mispronounce an alien's name by accident. Many have called him a Predator, referring to the creature in John McTiernan's 1987 movie. I can certainly see the resemblance until Tzim-Sha removes his faceplate to reveal a look that is all teeth-and-no-curls (see what I did there?)


Dyspraxia

I applaud the production team for highlighting Dyspraxia, fully known as Developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD). We see this through the eyes of character Ryan (played by Tosin Cole). During the launch of this new series in Sheffield, Chibnall had said, "We did a lot of research into that, we worked with the Dyspraxia Foundation… it was important, because people live with these things. It’s a relatively common thing among kids, so I think it’s important to see that heroes come in all shapes and sizes. That’s the most important thing about Doctor Who and you will see that happen a lot across this year".


Final Thoughts

The threat was very minimal - one life in jeopardy instead of a whole planet - but the pace kept things interesting. Jodie clearly has comedy chops and presents a mad woman in a blue box very well; the lack of a TARDIS doesn't mean it won't appear: we have all seen those images of the new TARDIS interior - if you haven't, then you're in for a real treat, I think. There were solid performances from Bradley Walsh and Sharon D. Clarke as Graham and Grace O’Brien, it had that Ian-and-Barbara edge that could have really developed through the series. However, the way things ended, we clearly get a sense that the message is: there are always consequences...

...unless something timey wimey happens to change all of that?

Tosin (Ryan Sinclair) and Mandip Gill (Yasmin Khan) are well cast in their roles, and I look forward to seeing how they develop over the course of their stay with the show. And with Bradley making up the third, it feels just right, as it did back in the old days of the Doctor, granddaughter Susan, Ian and and Barbara. A time traveller and three companions.

Doctor Who is well and truly back!

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Oh My Word! Raising A Glass To Peter Capaldi

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Alwyn Ash was going to write a lengthy article celebrating the work of Twelfth Doctor Peter Capaldi. Instead, some lovely fellow Doctor Who fans shared their thoughts on the man, his time on the show, and what it meant for them to watch this fantastic Doctor in action...


"With Capaldi as an actor, we have arguably the best, most diverse actor to have played the role"

Steve Beaufoy: Peter is a fine character actor, and completely sold me on his take on the Doctor. It was my brother who first suggested I watch 'In The Thick Of It', and since then, after having watched the first series of 'The Musketeers', then his three series of Doctor Who - I am a fan. I didn't believe that anyone else could endear me to the Doctor since Tom Baker, but Peter did, 100%, and it was obvious that he loved the show. Yes, some scripts were poor, but isn't that the way with every other actor who has taken on the role? Would be honoured to meet the Gent.


Adrian Sherlock: He had the X factor which you cannot always find in every actor to play the Doctor, that old man of the Universe thing which cannot be bought or faked. He could be off the wall and funny, he could be vulnerable and sympathetic, he could speak with great passion and conviction. The scripts in his era sometimes felt like they were missing the mark, but when he had the chance to shine, he always impressed. I feel a smile come to my face when I see him and you can't fake that or buy it with money either.


Brendan Lynch: As The Doctor, for me Capaldi comes 2nd only to Troughton. Throughout his 3 seasons in the role we saw different facets of his character, from the moody, somewhat distant, traveller akin to Hartnell, to the softer, more funny uncle in Series 10. Capaldi played each aspect with vigour and love for the character and the show. As others mention, when his Doctor walked into a room, like Pertwee, he owned that room and the attention was on him. He was unpredictable in his actions, making the character harder to guess their response to new situations that that incarnation experienced. When the rage of 12 set in, we saw the ferociousness that Capaldi plays so well.

With Capaldi as an actor, we have arguably the best, most diverse actor to have played the role. His most famous role being a role in comedy series The Thick of It, he showed not only his skill with the humorous moments, but also the dramatic moments. The rage mentioned before, such as in Face The Raven, to the hopelessness in Heaven Sent and The Doctor Falls when he pleads for the Master's help. We had an actor who put his all into every scene, and made an era marred by a mixed bag of scripts, so memorable for me.

With Capaldi as a person, I cannot fault him. The way he has been with fans from the off has been sensational. From comforting a young fan upset that Matt Smith had left by showing him a photo of himself and Matt together, and explaining to the child that he asked Matt's permission to become The Doctor and he said it was ok. And followed by saying I hope that it'll be ok with this fan to take over.

Then there's the in-character message to the autistic boy who was struggling after the loss of a grandparent, surprising young fans at The Doctor Who Experience, and writing a letter to 2 young fans (again in character) upset about him leaving the show.

I was lucky enough to meet him at LFCC this year, and he chucked himself into the photoshoots, giving everyone a memorable photo with him, and when it came to the signing, he gave every fan the time to chat with him. Me personally, I spent 5 minutes chatting to him about The Thick of It and Capaldi's new project with Armando Iannucci.

Overall, Capaldi has shown both on and off screen just how much he loves and cares about the show, the fans and the legacy he and the show leaves. If there is any actor I can completely see geeking out at the sign of another Doctor Who actor, it's Peter Capaldi. We were so lucky to have him be a part of our show.


Andy Price: Capaldi was a fantastic Doctor. Like Pertwee before he brought a sense of gravitas as well as humour after the more clown like performance of Matt Smith (aka Pertwee and Troughton). He was let down by poor scripts and Moffat's clinging on to the character of Clara long after her story was done. To the point that at times is was more about Clara and her companion the Doctor.


Barbara Schafetz Viohl Orapello: He is a brilliant actor and was wonderful as The Doctor. Loved the fact that he is also a big fan of the show and I believe that showed through.


Final Thoughts

Alwyn Ash: On 24th Sept 2018 BBC's Entertainment and Arts Reporter Ian Youngs commented on his post 'How will the first female Doctor shake things up?' that Jodie Whittaker's first episode "will be a significant moment in British telly". A nice feel to the article. The writer, however, then added, "And what a great way to refresh a franchise, especially after four years of Peter Capaldi, who certainly wasn’t universally loved". Well, you can imagine the uproar from Doctor Who fans as responses became evident on social networking and online media. In short: 'The Universe Loves Peter Capaldi'. Mr Youngs' piece was regarded as "rubbish" and "disrespectful" to the actor who had portrayed the role of the Doctor with such passion.

Though short-changed regarding some scripts, there is no doubting the strength of Peter's Doctor. I recently watched 'The Witch's Familiar' (and 'The Magician's Apprentice' that preceded it) and loved the Doctor's performance as he stole Davros' chair only to confront a room full of Daleks. It's that sole determination, confidence and spirit that Peter brought to each scene, a power that only a great actor can achieve. Perhaps he wasn't "universally loved", but then, who is? No actor is universally loved, no rock star or artist either. Everyone has their fans and doubters, critics and haters. It's simply how things are.

I cannot fault Peter at all, he gave us the best of everything. I can fault the production team, writers and showrunner, on occasions. But never the actor. He is the Doctor. He is fantastic. We owe him such a great debt for enriching our lives with a wonderful performance. How best to bring this article to a close? Simple. Prior to the Twelfth Doctor's regeneration in 2017's 'Twice Upon a Time'...

"Oh, there it is, silly old universe. The more I save it, the more it needs saving. It's a treadmill. Yes, yes, I know, they'll get it all wrong without me. Well, I suppose one more lifetime won't kill anyone. Well, except me. You wait a moment, Doctor! Let's get it right. I've got a few things to say to you. Basic stuff first: never be cruel, never be cowardly, and never, ever eat pears! Remember, hate is always foolish, and love is always wise. Always try to be nice, but never fail to be kind. Oh, and you mustn't tell anyone your name. No one would understand it anyway… except… except children. Children can hear it, sometimes, if their hearts are in the right place, and the stars are too, children can hear your name. But nobody else. Nobody else, ever. Laugh hard. Run fast. Be kind. Doctor... I let you go."

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Oh My Word! Jodie Whittaker, the Doctor; Genesis Who; Sydney Newman, and Regeneration

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Oh my word!

I'll admit, my first reaction to the announcement of a female Doctor was simply "good grief!" It felt like a joke, one big silly prank designed to shake the fanbase until the name of the true Doctor was revealed.

The news, which I first heard through a friend on a social networking app, was broken on Sunday 16th July 2017 following the Men’s Wimbledon Final in the UK. Immediately perusing the Web, I noticed mixed responses from fans. Many were jubilant, others appalled by the decision to cast Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor. Some comments were downright nasty. And then there was a press release in which the actor herself said, "I’m beyond excited to begin this epic journey with Chris [Chibnall] and with every Whovian on this planet. It’s more than an honour to play the Doctor. It means remembering everyone I used to be, while stepping forward to embrace everything the Doctor stands for: hope. I can’t wait".

The hashtag #NotMyDoctor had begun circulating on Twitter and Instagram; the BBC even received complaints from viewers. Eventually the British television corporation issued a statement saying, "The Doctor is an alien from the planet Gallifrey, and it has been established in the show that Time Lords can switch gender". Amusingly #NotMyDoctor is still in use today, and it seems those people against Jodie's appointment wish nothing good for the show - actually hoping it fails so they can feel smug about it all.

Though much positivity and praise for the actor was being generated, I still wasn't convinced, and blamed previous showrunner Steven Moffat for Hell Bent (2015) and the on-screen regeneration of the General: the Time Lord had been shot by the Twelfth Doctor (Peter Capaldi) and, as a consequence, regenerated from male to female. Having been played by English actor Ken Bones for the tenth incarnation of the character, the General (also called Kenossium) was replaced by T'Nia Miller and the life of the eleventh persona began.

And, of course, who can forget Missy, a female incarnation of the Master portrayed by Michelle Gomez? I had persuaded myself that Moffat had ruined the show by introducing such a dreadful concept!

Then I had time to think about it and digest what the change would mean for both myself and the show that I have loved since a young age. Yes, I'm one of those middle-aged men from the classic era - Peter Davison was my Doctor. These past many years - since 2010 - I have had the privilege of chatting with various blog authors of Doctor Who fansites, I adopted an existing blog myself in those early years: Nebula One News. There was no shortage of female fans, and interest in the show had grown enormously as each new Doctor arrived.

Sadly, my own enthusiasm for Doctor Who waned a little and the blog closed. A new site launched in 2012, Regent Times, though its success was short-lived. It seemed that my love of blogging was over.


"I feel like I’ve been handed this amazing world..."

Jump to 2018 and, oh wow, what on Earth is happening? I'm full of ideas and enthusiasm again! I'm actually writing, designing web pages and feeling good about this. I could say that I've reached a moment in my life when everything is coming together. I wish. What has awoken, however, is all thanks to Jodie Whittaker, the Thirteenth Doctor. Though there has been a slow trickle of promotional pictures and trailers for Series 11, I've been awestruck by Whittaker's public appearances and passion: this is someone who wants nothing but the best for both the show and its devoted legion of fans!

I've read Jodie's various online interviews where she's said, "I feel like I’ve been handed this amazing world and they’ve let me be like a kid in a toy shop and go off with it..." and "I’m playing a Time Lord who’s essentially an alien and inhabits different bodies and this one is female (Marie Claire).

I've learned to embrace changes in Doctor Who since the 1980s, as it is the one constant along our journey with the show. The Doctor has been a role model for many, whatever the incarnation, and will continue to play that most important of parts.

As Jodie also shared in the interview, "I hope that as I could be your next-door neighbour – I’m not physically someone who could do extraordinary things – I won’t seem like an unattainable hero to kids. This is someone who loves science, who’s hopeful and who doesn’t look a particular way".


Didn't originally make the grade...

In a letter dated 6th October 1986 and addressed to then BBC Controller Michael Grade, Doctor Who co-creator Sydney Newman had made several suggestions as to how the series could proceed following its then turbulent period facing a possible axe and falling viewing figures. Actor Colin Baker had currently been associated with the role. The Canadian film and television producer was adamant that "The copyright in any ideas expressed will be mine. Should you accept these ideas the fee I would accept would be in the form of my being taken on and paid to be its Executive Producer or similar, to make sure the concept is properly executed".

It was his opinion regarding "The Characters" which is interesting, "(4) At a later stage, Dr Who would be metamorphosed into a woman. This requires some considerable thought - mainly because I want to avoid a flashy Hollywood 'Wonder Woman' because this kind of hero(ine) has no flaws - and a character with no flaws is a bore. Given more time than I have now, I can create such a character".

It has also been reported that actor Tom Baker, who played the role of the Time Lord from 1974-81, had said at a press conference in 1980, "I certainly wish my successor luck, whoever he or she might be". From what I can tell both Baker and then showrunner John Nathan-Turner had devised the comment as a piece of mischief, to keep the actual identity of Baker's replacement a compete surprise.

It didn't seem like an impossibility then, and it doesn't now. I've just looked up Regeneration and read, "the process by which Time Lords and others renewed themselves, causing a complete physical and often psychological change". And then there is, "Regeneration released massive amounts of a hormone called lindos in moments of extreme trauma, and it was this hormone which triggered regeneration... During regeneration, a Time Lord experiences a surge of pure regenerative energy, as their entire system was rewritten and their universe moulded into a new shape, with their very biodata being rewritten in the fabric of space-time".

It certainly isn't unfathomable to consider that during this violent and unstable process a being's entire gender could be altered.


Final thoughts

As we approach Sunday 7th October 2018, and the debut of The Woman Who Fell to Earth, I am fully embracing what is to come from Jodie Whittaker. As current showrunner Chris Chibnall says, "New Doctor, new home! Jodie Whittaker’s Doctor is about to burst into Sunday nights - and make the end of the weekend so much more exciting. Get everybody’s homework done, sort out your Monday clothes, then grab some special Sunday night popcorn, and settle down with all of the family for Sunday night adventures across space and time. (Also, move the sofa away from the wall so parents can hide behind it during the scary bits). The Thirteenth Doctor is falling from the sky and it’s going to be a blast."

My childhood used to be homework done and school uniform being ironed as I sat on the sofa to watch Battlestar Galactica, my last weekend treat before school. Now it's the Doctor - who could ask for a better treat than that?

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Celebrating Doctor Who - Like The Phoenix, With Renewed Spirit

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Christopher and Billie

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"The assembled hordes of Genghis Khan couldn't get through that door, and, believe me, they've tried"

"Do you want to come with me?" Every time I think about those first brand new trailers advertising the absolutely amazing truth that the Doctor - the time and space traveller whose adventures originally spanned three decades, from 1963 to 1989 - was set to return, I get that warm fuzzy feeling. If the 1996 TV movie starring Paul McGann had the tagline "He's back... and it's about time", then surely, 2005 was the moment for all of us to shout, "Yes it is!" and celebrate by re-watching our DVDs; reading the Target Books, Past Doctor Adventures, Eighth Doctor Adventures, comics; and listening to our collection of Big Finish audio dramas...

There was to be a new Doctor in town, and his name? None other than respected English actor Christopher Eccleston (whose film work had, up to that point, included Shallow Grave and the highly emotional drama Jude). It was to be both an exciting yet risky move, with everyone involved knowing that there was no room for failure or low viewing figures - the BBC's faith in Doctor Who had diminished during the mid-to-late eighties, and a comeback had to equal success or risk further cancellation.

Feelings for director Geoffrey Sax's "movie" had clearly been mixed, resulting in a possible television outing for the Eighth Doctor being rejected. One critic had even criticised, "If the series is to return it will need stronger scripts than this simplistic offering..." [The Handbook: The Unofficial and Unauthorized Guide to the Production of Doctor Who]

On 26th March 2005 viewers sat to watch the big event. The moment had been prepared for (see what I did there? No? Watch Logopolis). From the moment it began we were introduced to Rose, an ordinary working-class girl; it was through her eyes that we meet the Doctor. Though this was a different man altogether, there was something deeply comforting about his presence. He knew things. And he owned a blue telephone police box, a strange thing to have in the early 21st century!

In the past, the Time Lord's companions had been mostly singular figures separated from family to travel in the TARDIS, either reluctantly or by choice. But this new show would be a far more solid experience, exploring family life and the consequences of entanglements with the Doctor from this point of view.

Any doubts regarding singer-turned-actor Billie Piper's casting were laid to rest once she was given the opportunity to show just what a good actress she really was - if anyone thought there to be pressure on the lead, then just imagine the weight of expectation on the choice for companion. But, as it turned out, the opening episode "Rose" received positive reviews, and the first series looked to be pretty safe in the hands of its current team. Doctor Who had cleverly opened with a popular enemy to those familiar with the show - the Autons had originally appeared in Spearhead from Space (in 1970) and Terror of the Autons (1971) - while still being accessible to a new audience without pre-knowledge of the programme's history.

It was also pure genius that the incidental music was composed by Murray Gold, whose scores gave the new series both a perfect flavour and identifiable edge.

For the first time in years, Doctor Who was being written and handled by people who understood it, and who had been lobbying passionately for its return. The Mill’s Television and Film studio had handled the visual effects, their involvement promising nothing less than beautiful imagery. And every angle had been considered, designed, and executed. "Rose" wasn't just your average sci-fi episode: it was a phoenix, regenerated from all that had come before it, with renewed spirit to take on a new Universe, a place that had missed and needed... the Doctor...

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Who Is.. Peter Capaldi?

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Peter Capaldi and Jenna Coleman
Image: © BBC

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"Stay calm! Just one question. Do you happen to know how to fly this thing?"

Saturday 23rd August 2014 marks the debut of actor Peter Capaldi's first full story as the Twelfth Doctor, with co-star Jenna Coleman as Clara Oswald alongside for further adventures through time and space. This is a man whose physical presence once more reflects much older times, when the Doctor was young though mature in appearance. Regeneration is the power of a Time Lord, able to survive death and severe injury. This is most definitely a Twelfth Doctor for both a new and "Classic" generation, a seasoned actor cast to promote age in all its years...

Expect new friends and old enemies, the regular mix of light and dark, inner conflicts and acts of war. It is no secret that Capaldi’s Doctor will be far darker than previous incarnations, likely far more alien than ever. “She cares so I don’t have to”, the Time Lord says in a teaser courtesy of British magazine television show This Morning, whose presenters interviewed the lovely Coleman on Friday (22nd August). What I admire about the power of DOCTOR WHO is its constant ability to transform, regenerate and bring in new fans - on both sides of the screen, and all around the globe! It is a show that is not limited by its cast, production crew or narrow viewpoint. We have a Universe(s), time travel, and enough imagination and possibilities to fill a whole armada of TARDISes.

Looking back at THE FIRES OF POMPEII (2008 feels like a lifetime already), I do find it fascinating that that particular episode didn’t just hand us a future TARDIS companion (Karen Gillan) but ultimately presented a future Doctor, too: Peter Capaldi played the role of Caecilius in the episode, which featured David Tennant as the Tenth Doctor… As many of you will know, this has only happened once before, when actor Colin Baker was cast as the Sixth Doctor after having appeared in a previous story as a different character (see ARC OF INFINITY, 1983). A little bit of trivia for you: THE FIRES OF POMPEII hasn’t been the Doctor’s only visit to the 79 AD tragedy - in Big Finish audio adventure THE FIRES OF VULCAN, Seventh Doctor Sylvester McCoy gets to tangle with local politics while separated from companion Mel (played by Bonnie Langford).


Who is the Doctor?

So, back to the present… As we all know, it takes an actor some time to find his feet and make the role his own, and the reaction of fans plays a huge part in this. Every regeneration brings a different take, albeit with some minor similarities. This is the nature of the beast, in order for it to survive. But Capaldi LOOKS good, and will clearly make an excellent addition to the line of Time Lords who have piloted the TARDIS. After reading some comments on other websites concerning his appointment, it is obvious there are doubts, but just who is Peter Capaldi? Who is the Doctor? Just when you think there is an answer to that very question - he goes and changes again, bringing a new aspect to his persona. Adjusting to a new Doctor is not easy, because every one of us has our own DOCTOR, a single embodiment of the show., and how dare anyone else take his place…

The good news is that, Capaldi is a fan of the show, too, and like us wishes nothing other than the best. He has a passion that will see every one of us safely along for the ride, once more championing him against the evil that preys on the weak, unprotected and innocent. In an interview, the actor said, “...what I do know is that I love the show and it is part of my DNA … I know instinctively what Doctor Who is about”. That statement is a love letter to our beautiful show, and proves that the man with a blue box is firmly in safe hands for all generations to enjoy. The Doctor is a cultural hero, explorer and believer in justice, he is an alien whose footsteps have left serious repercussions, with a past so deep and scarred that history has a way of catching up with him - what can you expect from someone who travels through time and space anyway?

Though darker in tone, there will still be laughs, one-liners and great scripts. I will be there on Saturday, like every one of you, watching my favourite character as he tries to come to terms with who, or what, he is. But, in the end, he is the Doctor. So, deep breath, the time is almost upon us...

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The Night of the Doctor - WebReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

"I'm a Doctor... but probably not the one you were expecting."

Had anyone seen this coming? There has been so much focus on the 50th anniversary that it is impossible to escape the madness of a mad man with a blue box, no matter what incarnation he appears or body he wears. The excitement of a landmark occasion such as this must overwhelm. And if anyone was in doubt as to whether there would be any involvement from classic Doctors, then now is the time to rejoice. To mark the approaching 50th anniversary story entitled "The Day of the Doctor", the BBC launched its prequel mini webcast episode "The Night of the Doctor", a tale that would not only introduce in chronological order the arrival of Hurt's mysterious character but also treat us to a glimpse of the last moments of the Eighth Doctor - a character so under-serviced by the show, having never featured in a season of his own. Yes, actor Paul McGann was back, and it most definitely is about time!

Battered and tired but still a man of hope, this version of the Doctor has witnessed the Time War escalate to a point where existence itself is threatened, as Time Lords and Daleks engage in the bloodiest of battles, a continuing campaign that has lasted since quite possibly "Genesis of the Daleks" (1975), when the Fourth Doctor was asked by the Time Lords to avert the creation of their Skaro-born enemy. Another example of this feud can be seen in "Resurrection of the Daleks" (1984) in which the Daleks attempt to clone the Fifth Doctor and his companions, and use the Doppelgängers to assassinate the High Council of Time Lords on Gallifrey. It is a theme that has run through many Big Finish audio plays also.

Though only about 6-7 minutes in length, "The Night of the Doctor" is a welcome part of Whovian mythology and a final glimpse into the last moments of the Eighth Doctor. It feels kind of ironic that, in 1996 we witnessed his birth after a gang shooting, only to now watch his final sacrifice. The serious tone of the piece is welcome, this is precisely how Doctor Who should be: powerful drama!

So what does the episode tell us about the Doctor, the Universe and the Time War? Much, quite frankly. We see that the Doctor is his usual self, even in the darkness of war he is looking to save lives. Cass a typical example, the solitary figure of a gunship whose fate has already been decided, having transported her crew to safety and with no means of escape for herself. The hero of time wants to rescue her, and together they race to the TARDIS at the back of the ship. However, upon discovering that her saviour is a Time Lord, Cass withdraws, locking herself In the front section of the vessel, separating herself from the Doctor and salvation. Her feelings for the Time Lords are clear: they are as destructive and ruthless as the Daleks in this chaotic war, and she would rather die than trust even one of them. The Doctor refuses to leave her, and the gunship crashes...

The planet Karn, once a Gallifrey colony. The Doctor has been here before, in the Fourth Doctor televised serial "The Brain of Morbius" (1976), and in Big Finish audio adventures "Sisters of the Flame" (2008) and "The Vengeance of Morbius" (2008). The Sisterhood of Karn has a long and interesting history regarding the Time Lords: in the days before Rassilon, old Gallifrey was ruled by the Pythia, matriarchal leaders who possessed psychic and precognition abilities. When the very last Pythia to rule Gallifrey was exposed for spying on Rassilon, she sent her followers to live on Karn and committed suicide. It is her followers who later became known as the Sisterhood of Karn.

And so the Doctor has returned, but he perished in the crash. Resurrecting him for four minutes, the Sisterhood offers him a lifeline - the ability to choose a regeneration, and bring an end to the Time War once and for all! At first the Time Lord refuses, knowing that he is the Doctor, a man of moral goodness. But seeing Cass's body forces him to make one of the darkest decisions of his lives... "I don't suppose there's any need for a doctor any more. Make me a warrior now."

Given a chalice, the Time Lord pays respect to old companions (for the first time in television history the show references characters from the Big Finish range of audiobooks) before saying, "Physician, heal thyself" and drinking from the cup, sparking a forced regeneration. The glow, and the Doctor, our Doctor, is no more. In his place, via a reflection, we see a young John Hurt as "The War Doctor". The very last words, "Doctor no more" do send a slight chill - for this is an enigma of a character, a man whose only purpose is to commit the most desperate of acts to bring an end to bloodshed.

One of the strangest of opinions concerning the Eighth Doctor is that... he is not canon at all, just a displaced character perhaps similar to that of Peter Cushing's Dr Who? Not my opinion, you understand, but the misguided belief from a small pocket of Whovians. This I find totally preposterous, for if this were true and Paul McGann's Doctor is so far from canon, then why did Seventh Doctor Sylvester McCoy reprise his role to guest star in the 1996 TV movie? And why link the two Doctors with a direct regeneration sequence if not to satisfy a continuation of the legendary show instead of a total reboot? One fan has even had the nerve to suggest that McGann's Doctor never appeared on "television", so how can he be a true Doctor? Well, what is a TV movie if not for television?

For such a long time there has been a strong desire for McGann to resurrect his role as the Eighth Doctor beyond his already popular audio outings for the Big Finish range. And whether or not a spin-off series is likely, the fans' wishes have been granted! He not only returned after a seventeen year television absence, but McGann performed such brilliance that his place in Doctor Who's legacy is unquestionable and assured.

For this review it is also important to highlight the wonderful work of both Clare Higgins (as Ohila, Sisterhood of Karn) and Emma Campbell-Jones (portraying the role of Cass). Higgins, an award-winning English actress, is known for her role as Julia Cotton in the horror feature "Hellraiser" (1987). Doctor Who fans will also remember Campbell-Jones for her performance on "The Wedding of River Song" (2011) in which she played Dr. Kent - you do feel that McGann and Campbell-Jones would have been good together if a spin-off series was to be commissioned; perhaps Big Finish should take note...

It is inspiring that showrunner Steven Moffat had the vision to reunite the Eighth Doctor with his fans, feeling that the "completist" in him needed to see the regeneration scene finally happen on screen. Talking about the idea in an interview, Moffat said, "Well, we had our new ‘hidden mystery’ Doctor and I was thinking, what else can we do for our anniversary year... I thought... Why don't we get Paul McGann in and regenerate him into John Hurt? I’d like to see that! And we had this possibility that we could do it as a surprise, so we got in touch with Paul who was dead keen and I’m delighted to say he was so happy to join in with the idea of keeping it secret. He was childishly excited about it!"

Of course, every fan has been "childishly excited" about it, too, since the surprise was first unveiled. We now have the bookends of a Time Lord, with Big Finish providing the filling as the audio adventures of McGann's Doctor continue. If you have never discovered the magic of these stories, then begin now. If you are a regular listener, perhaps revisit your favourites. For both, it is an absolute magical treat to experience "The Light At The End", a true celebration of Doctor Who's classic years. Be sure to watch an interview with Paul McGann over at Flicks And The City, where the actor talks "Night of the Doctor".

Purchase The Light At The End from the Store:
(Standard Edition)
CD Audio - Feature running time: 120 minutes

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Doctor Who: Dimensions In Time - TVReview

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Article author: Alwyn Ash

"Mayday, mayday. This is an urgent message for all the Doctors. It's vitally important that you listen to me for once. Our whole existence is being threatened by a renegade Time Lord known only as the Rani..."

I have never understood the dislike for Doctor Who's 1993 two-part charity event "Dimensions In Time", designed as a nod and a celebration of the show's 30th anniversary. According to statements that have been made since, "Dimensions" was to be a rather different affair, with intelligible plot and solid dialogue. However, due to time restraints, cost issues, and other requirements, Doctor Who marked an important occasion with a host of faces old and new, and monsters galore. The Daleks were perhaps absent, due to legal reasons, but this was something quite special - utilizing a 3D method called the "Pulfrich effect" (accompanied by the viewer wearing special spectacles with one darkened lens and one transparent one) to give an extra dimension to the Doctor's adventure. It was not, as some see it, a "final insult" - perhaps proceeds raised going to charity is irrelevant?

I can fully appreciate the fans' longing for something quite special, in line with previous celebrations "The Three Doctors" (1973) and "The Five Doctors" (1983), and I for one wished a grander affair had been approved. But let us not forget that, sadly, the show itself had been cancelled in 1989, and there was not a single sign that Doctor Who would ever return as a drama series every again. Even the originally planned 30th Anniversary feature-length drama "Lost in the Dark Dimension" failed to materialise, which would have starred Tom Baker reprising his role as the Fourth Doctor and joined by companions and fellow Doctors - as various actors and production crew have stated in interviews following the cancellation of "Dark Dimension", the presence of Jon Pertwee, Peter Davison, Colin Baker and Sylvester McCoy would have been little more than cameos, which was not only a disappoint to the actors but would not have become the true equal gathering of the show's stars that fans would have surely wished for at that time...

Had "Dark Dimension" been both produced and a huge success, perhaps the BBC would have given the green light for a new season, but that is now uncertain. And so, with nothing else on the agenda other than a documentary entitled "Thirty Years in the TARDIS", it was decided to go ahead with "Dimensions In Time". One of the ideas settled upon during the genesis of this "Children In Need" reunion was that Doctor Who must intergrate with another popular BBC drama show at that time, "Eastenders", a soap opera following the residents of Albert Square in London. Not such a strange notion when you take into consideration that this was to be a fundraiser for children, and not a canon-based chapter in a long-running television series...

This is perhaps where I feel slightly amused. It is hard to believe that some members of Doctor Who's fanbase have tried to place or explain "Dimensions In Time" into the canon, as if just accepting that it was nothing more than a charity event is too difficult an idea for them to comprehend. It was a sketch, nothing more. And if it is true that "Dimensions" raised over £101,000 for Children in Need, perhaps just a thank you to everyone who took part is required, instead of criticism? 3-D week, which televised a number of special BBC shows using the Pulfrich 3D technique, included "Dimensions" as part of its one-off programming.

The story. Well, the "plot" focuses on renegade Time Lady the Rani (Kate O'Mara) attempting to trap all of the Doctor's incarnations in a time loop. The First and Second Doctors have already been snared, and the Fourth Doctor (played by Tom Baker) sends out a distress message to his remaining other selves; one can only watch and admire the man who had portrayed the role of the Doctor the longest. Following this scene we meet the Seventh Doctor (McCoy) and companion Ace (Sophie Aldred) who arrive in London, 1973, after the TARDIS is drawn off course - McCoy was, at the time of filming "Dimensions", the current Doctor, having starred in the show's last classic canon serial "Survival" in 1989. Using the method of time jumps, we are introduced to other Doctors and companions as the Time Lord attempts to understand the reason for this phenomenon.

Seeing familiar faces again such as the wonderful Nicola Bryant, Sarah Sutton, and Carole Ann Ford (playing companions Peri Brown, Nyssa and Susan Foreman respectively) is always a delight, and the all-too short scene between Colin Baker and Nicholas Courtney is a reminder of just how good the Sixth Doctor and his old friend Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart would have been together in a televised story had Baker remained for further seasons. Talking of a union between these two fabulous actors, it is always a blessing to hear them perform in Big Finish's audio drama "The Spectre of Lanyon Moor", released in 2000, featuring a Cornish landscape and a haunted moor...

I do find it quite a shame that "Dimensions In Time" may never be available, even as a DVD extra. Due to both cast and crew giving their services free of charge, conditions were laid down unequivocal by Equity, the actors' union, which stipulated that "Dimensions" would be transmitted the once only and should never be "exploited commercially in any way". Though I am sure there are some who would not care if this light-hearted sketch was ever seen again, it does make a nice example of what can be achieved when people are brought together to help those who are less fortunate. Television presenter Noel Edmonds (whose popular UK show "Noel's House party" aired both parts of the Doctor Who charity special) could not have worded it better when, referring to a phone-in to decide the outcome of a moment in the sketch, said, "When you make your call you will be invited to make a pledge for Children In Need. So you'll not just be helping the Doctors, but you'll actually be helping children everywhere..."

Ironically, during the special two-parter, we see Jon Pertwee and Elisabeth Sladen visit Albert Square in 2013 - it seems they are with us in spirit for the 50th Anniversary! And a final word from McCoy, who says at the end, "Certainly I, I mean 'we', are difficult to get rid of." Never a truer word said.

Purchase More Than 30 Years In The TARDIS from the Store:
(Included in The Legacy Collection)
DVD - Feature running time: 200 minutes (Includes "Shada")

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Doctor Who: The Daleks' Master Plan - AudioReview

Article author: Alwyn Ash


"The Daleks’ Master Plan reminds us just why fans of the show embraced Target books: to relive those extra pieces of magic, an extended piece of time travel and adventure."

It is easy to see why the Daleks were – and still are – so popular with fans. World domination is mere child’s play to these Kaled creatures. Instead we are given a plot, the Daleks’ master plan, that will suffocate enemy governments and their space fleets; armies will be slaughtered before the might of Dalek supremacy. This is a certainty. It has all been engineered to perfection. However, as is often the case with such plans, the Doctor’s involvement, or interference, is never accounted for.

The epic adventure that was The Daleks’ Master Plan, originally airing on BBC1 from 13th November 1965 to 29th January 1966, focused on Mavic Chen's back-stabbing, Guardian of the Solar System, whose goal and thirst for power overwhelmed any compassion for others, especially his own kind. Did he even have any compassion, or was his sole purpose to betray and control? The latter is quite clearly his motive and food for life. A man of greed, his own egotistic nature a blanket, preventing him from seeing what others around him thought. He cared not for the opinions of others, unless they were considered useful to him, even for a short time.

And now to the Daleks – instigators of the plan. Like Chen they are unaware of their own faults, oblivious to the limits of their capabilities. They are like Gods – no, they ARE gods! But this overconfidence is something that allows their missions to fail. The Doctor, for example, knows these creatures of old, having first encountered them on their home planet of Skaro. However, the Doctor refuses to underestimate them, for he knows how devious and deadly they can be. He steals the Taranium core, to prevent their master plan from ever succeeding.

But this act does not hinder the Daleks, for long. Confident of their destiny to conquer and destroy, they follow him through time and space, in a bid to regain their missing element.

It has to be said that both Peter Purves and Jean Marsh are absolutely superb, their narrative delightful and engaging. Purves’s vocal impression of the First Doctor, for example, is prime brilliance, underlining his skill as an actor and recognising his personal connection with not just the show but also William Hartnell’s character, so loved and remembered by fans.

Marsh delivers a far gentler narrative, an alternative style that helps to keep the story feeling fresh. This kind of device has been employed before, in other audiobooks, and it works brilliantly here. It is also a pleasure to hear both actors portraying their original parts too – of Steven Taylor and Sara Kingdom.

Lastly, the “Meddling Monk” (a renegade Time Lord first encountered in 1965’s The Time Meddler) makes a sudden return. Like the Daleks he is pursuing the Doctor in a time/space ship, unlike them his solitary motive is revenge. Trapped for a short time on Earth in 1066 (the Doctor had tampered with his TARDIS, preventing him from leaving the planet), the Monk now vows vengeance. Like Mavic Chen, the renegade Time Lord is capable of deceit, a skill that serves its usefulness when the Daleks capture him and he promises to deliver the Doctor to them.

Did I previously say: “it is easy to see why the Daleks were – and still are – so popular with fans”? Let me add: it is easy to see why this story has remained a true Doctor Who classic. Just who can resist a tale promising Daleks, threats of invasion and destruction, conspiracy and deceit, greed, revenge and more...?

The Daleks’ Master Plan reminds us just why fans of the show embraced Target books: to relive those extra pieces of magic, an extended piece of time travel and adventure. And, not forgetting, one of the longest stories ever written for Doctor Who (the original broadcast can boast twelve episodes – this audio adaptation of John Peel’s novelisation can promise 10 x CDs, that’s 12 hours and 10 minutes of unabridged entertainment!)

In fact, it is such a long story that, as with the original novelisations, it has been split into two parts – "The Daleks’ Master Plan Part 1: Mission To The Unknown" and "The Daleks’ Master Plan Part 2: The Mutation of Time". So, yes, you have to purchase both audio releases to enjoy the experience in full, but where would be the fun in missing out?

One of the most important elements to this superb drama reading that should be given a special mention is that of the Daleks themselves, here voiced by the brilliant Nicholas Briggs. It is no lie that an authentic Dalek voice would be missed without this man, who has shared his talents with both Big Finish and the new Doctor Who television series. Doctor Who: The Daleks' Master Plan is a far more polished adventure with Briggs on board.


Further reading: AudioGo - Official website

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The Changing Face of Doctor Who - archive material

Article author: Alwyn Ash


The Changing Face of Doctor Who, an amazing archive of material & documentation relating to the longest-running science fiction series, was released by BBC Archive. Seeing as the 50th Anniversary is imminent, why not rediscover the behind-the-scenes magic...?

"In 1966, William Hartnell stepped down from the lead role in the beloved science fiction series, 'Doctor Who'. Rather than simply recast the part, the production team came up with a solution that would ensure the series would run for years to come.

"Discover what happens when one Time Lord hands over his TARDIS to the next. See early plans for the first 'new Doctor', Patrick Troughton, and discover how viewers reacted to the change. Photos also show the moments when new Doctors and their companions were unveiled and reveal those actors who narrowly missed out on becoming TV's favourite time traveller."

You can view this exciting trip down memory lane by visiting The Changing Face of Doctor Who. There is also a second archive section: The Genesis of Doctor Who, again at BBC Archive, which takes a look at the origins of the show.

Sylvester McCoy and Paul McGann changing places
for the 1996 TV movie

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Destiny of the Doctor: Shadow of Death - AudioReview

Article author: Alwyn Ash


Celebrating the longest-running science fiction show, Destiny of the Doctor delivers a mysterious and atmospheric tale that is worthy of an anniversary release...

Following on from January's First Doctor adventure Hunters of Earth, the second part of Big Finish and AudioGO's Destiny of the Doctor 50th anniversary series stars Frazer Hines as he narrates the tale, joined by Evie Dawnay as Doctor Sophie Topolovic. So what does Shadow of Death have to offer in terms of plot and production...?

First off, it can definitely be said that listening to Hines' performance is an absolute dream; his impersonation of Patrick Troughton's Doctor is beautifully acted, a genuine surprise following David Troughton's own achievement in Serpent Crest stories The Hexford Invasion and Survivors in Space, also released by AudioGO. There are moments when you just forget it is actually Hines who is playing the part. We are introduced to a base on the surface of a planet orbiting a pulsar, in the year 2724, where its crew are investigating the disappearance of the planet's original occupants, The Quiet Ones. Typically the TARDIS is forced to make an emergency landing and the Doctor, Jamie and Zoe find themselves in yet further danger...

Introducing the base-under-siege theme is so appropriate for this Doctor, and both music and sound design (courtesy of Simon Hunt) superbly recreates the show's sixties feel. Simon Guerrier's writing, perfectly polished by director John Ainsworth, offers a tale that will engage and intrigue for an hour.

With a theme that covers time distortion and pioneering, it just goes to show that you should never annoy your neighbours! It is also interesting to see a linked strand in these tales, a jigsaw puzzle reaching out and piecing every Doctor together. In previous story Hunters of Earth Susan sensed danger, "Something terrible is coming... I can feel it. Something that will affect, everything..."

In Shadow... the Doctor himself has an encounter with an element that will be instantly recognisable to Doctor Who fans. No spoilers. The Second Doctor's reaction to this event, however, is quite familiar, "You know you're breaking all the laws of time!"

Pairing in these tales so far works well (there is no doubt that Carole Ann Ford and Tam Williams were perfect choices in the debut for Destiny of the Doctor) and Dawnay as Sophie is no exception, opposite Hines. In January, writer Guerrier blogged, "the magnificent Evie Dawnay plays a character I named after my GCSE astronomy teacher".

Anyone not familiar with Dawnay will be interested to know that she has appeared in previous Big Finish audio drama Survival of the Fittest (opposite Seventh Doctor Sylvester McCoy) and Bernice Summerfield adventure Year Zero, as Pallis; in addition to voice overs for TV and radio, there have been television parts including that of Vanessa Marsh in Law & Order UK (produced by Kudos Film & TV - other Dr Who actors to have appeared include Peter Davison and Freema Agyeman); film credits include The Fairbank Hotel (2003), where she portrayed the role of Aurora Dawn Phillips.

As for Hines, what else can be said? He is known for his roles as Jamie McCrimmon in Doctor Who from 1966 to 1969 (returning to the role twice, in 1983 and 1985) and Joe Sugden in British soap opera Emmerdale (1972-94). In Shadow... he not only reprises the role of Jamie but takes the story's heart and enlarges it to such an extent with his performance and narration that we, the listener, are treated to something... timeless.


Further reading: AudioGO - official website

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Destiny of the Doctor - Babblesphere

Article author: Alwyn Ash


The big celebration to see launch of exciting stories for every Doctor...

Eleven Doctors, eleven months! These magnificent tales continue with Destiny of the Doctor 4 adventure Babblesphere, featuring the Fourth Doctor (as regularly played by actor Tom Baker from 1974-81). Written by Jonathan Morris and directed by John Ainsworth, Babblesphere follows in the footsteps of January's First Doctor story Hunters From Earth, February's Second Doctor adventure Shadow of Death, and this month's Third Doctor offering Vengeance of the Stones. Lalla Ward and Roger Parrott play the roles of Romana and Aurelius respectively.

"The violent, volcanic world of Hephastos is home to a colony of composers, painters, authors and poets, all striving to create the greatest works of art the universe has ever seen. But in pursuit of their goal, artistic collaboration has been taken a stage too far... When the Doctor and Romana arrive, they discover the colonists have neglected their well-being and their once beautiful habitat, which has now succumbed to decay, and they are enslaved to the Babble network which occupies their every waking moment. Every thought, however trivial or insignificant , is shared with everyone else and privacy is now a crime.

"The colonists are being killed and the Doctor and Romana begin to suspect that a malevolent intelligence is at work. With time running out, the two time travellers race to discover the truth before they too are absorbed into the endless trivia of the Babblesphere..."

It has been worked out rather nicely so that the current Doctor (played by Matt Smith in the television series) will appear in his own title in November, the Anniversary month! All stories are produced by Big Finish for AudioGO. Performers for each adventure will be announced through the year.

These audiobooks will be available for download, or on a single CD (RRP £10.20). With music and sound design courtesy of Steve Foxon, what better way to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the greatest sci-fi show on Planet Earth than to add this title to your audio collection...

Jonathan Morris has written for both the BBC Eighth Doctor and Past Doctor Adventures in addition to audio scripts for Big Finish including The Haunting of Thomas Brewster, Bloodtide, and the Judge Dredd range.


Further reading: AudioGO - official website

These adventures can also be purchased via the official Big Finish website.

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Destiny of the Doctor: Hunters from Earth - AudioReview

Article author: Alwyn Ash


Celebrating the longest-running science fiction show, Destiny of the Doctor delivers a mysterious and atmospheric tale that is worthy of an anniversary release...

For the 50th anniversary where else better to start than in Shoreditch, London, 1963. Hunters From Earth, a collaboration between Big Finish and AudioGO, sees the First Doctor hurrying through the darkened streets of the East End. He is being stalked in the thick fog. Performed by Carole Ann Ford (as Susan Foreman), and joined by Tam Williams (real-life son of Simon Williams, who played Captain Gilmore in Remembrance Of The Daleks), this is the debut of an audio series, Destiny of the Doctor, which will see one story for each of the eleven Doctors for every month leading up to November. Writer Nigel Robinson, once editor of the popular Target Books' range of Doctor Who novelisations, manages to cook up a mix of suspense, which escalates as a small group of young people behave strangely out-of-character and threateningly.

Taking a look at 15-year-old Susan at Coal Hill School (briefly touched upon in the television serial An Unearthly Child) is a thoroughly interesting experience, especially when she befriends Sixth Form student Cedric (played by Williams). The introduction of Mr Rook, a teacher at the school, enhances the Alfred Hitchcock-esque tale as Susan and her grandfather are drawn into mystery and danger. Just what is affecting the teenagers of Coal Hill, and just why is Mr Rook so interested in the Doctor and his granddaughter?

Though Susan wants to be the normal girl, settle at school and make friends, her obvious "difference" and intelligence stand out among the other students, something that is noticed, too, by Rook. And as something changes, an atmosphere of restlessness and hatred, the time travellers must face life-threatening encounters.

The decision to set this First Doctor tale prior to Doctor Who's televised debut is genius, permitting further insight into London life in the early sixties, where Beatlemania is present and satellites are orbiting the Earth (the first artificial Earth satellite, Sputnik 1, had only been launched a few years previous, in 1957). It is kind of disappointing that there had been no mention of schoolteachers Ian Chesterton or Barbara Wright (even a cameo with William Russell would have been something extra special) but Hunters From Earth delivers what it promises. Plus there are nice nods too, including a mention of Magpie Electricals (2006's The Idiot's Lantern) and the line "I trusted you, and you betrayed me" (which reminds this reviewer of Ace in Remembrance of the Daleks).

It must also be said that both the music and sound design, implemented so wonderfully by Simon Hunt (who has contributed to other titles including Pest Control, Snake Bite and The Wheel of Ice), does everything right, allowing for a perfect balance of suspense and every-day normality; there is always fear to be found around every corner, whether it be at night in a foggy street or elsewhere.

The only negative is Carole Ann Ford's impersonation of the Doctor, however this reviewer would have it no other way - it is an honour to listen to this actress revisiting a character she originally played almost fifty years ago, and reprised in the twentieth anniversary of the show alongside Richard Hurndall as the First Doctor (see The Five Doctors).

Though Hunters From Earth is a self-contained story, it is clear that there is a darkness approaching. As Susan tells her grandfather, "Something terrible is coming... I can feel it. Something that will affect, everything..."

A tale passionately directed by John Ainsworth, and given all by the whole team.


Further reading: AudioGO - official website

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Destiny of the Doctor - Vengeance of the Stones

Article author: Alwyn Ash


The big celebration to see launch of exciting stories for every Doctor...

Eleven Doctors, eleven months! These magnificent tales continue with Destiny of the Doctor 3 adventure Vengeance of the Stones, featuring the Third Doctor (as regularly played by actor Jon Pertwee from 1970-74).

Written by Andrew Smith and directed by John Ainsworth, Vengeance of the Stones is sure to be a winner, following on from January's First Doctor story Hunters From Earth and this month's Shadow of Death. Richard Franklin and Trevor Littledale perform as Mike Yates and Garlin respectively.

"Two RAF fighter jets are on a training flight over North East Scotland when one of them is plucked from the air and promptly disappears. UNIT are called in, and the Doctor and Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart are soon on the scene. They enlist the help of a local military officer - a young lieutenant by the name of Mike Yates. The Doctor discovers a link to the recumbent stone circles that are plentiful in this part of Scotland. The stones are thousands of years old, and are soon revealed to hold a terrible secret. Then Mike Yates disappears, abducted by an alien race that has a grievance with humanity. Their intention is to harness the power of the stones in order to take their revenge. For the Doctor and the Brigadier, the race is now on to save their new friend Mike and the entire planet Earth."

It has been worked out rather nicely so that the current Doctor (played by Matt Smith in the television series) will appear in his own title in November, the Anniversary month! All stories are produced by Big Finish for AudioGO. Performers for each adventure will be announced through the year.

These audiobooks will be available for download, or on a single CD (RRP £10.20). With music and sound design courtesy of Simon Hunt, what better way to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the greatest sci-fi show on Planet Earth than to add each of these to your audio collection...

Andrew Smith wrote the 1980 Doctor Who television serial Full Circle (and the Target novelisation that followed, released in 1982); and audio scripts The Invasion of E-Space and The First Sontarans for Big Finish.


Further reading: AudioGO - official website

These adventures can also be purchased via the official Big Finish website.

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Destiny of the Doctor - Shadow of Death

Article author: Alwyn Ash


The big celebration to see launch of exciting stories for every Doctor...

Eleven Doctors, eleven months! These magnificent tales continue with Destiny of the Doctor 2 adventure Shadow of Death, this time featuring the Second Doctor (as regularly played by actor Patrick Troughton from 1966-69).

Written by Simon Guerrier and directed by John Ainsworth, Shadow of Death is sure to be another success, following on from last month's First Doctor story Hunters From Earth. Frazer Hines and Evie Dawnay perform as Jamie McCrimmon and Sophie.

"Following an emergency landing, the TARDIS arrives on a remote world orbiting a peculiar star - a pulsar which exerts an enormous gravitational force, strong enough to warp time. On further exploration the Doctor and his friends, Jamie and Zoe, discover a human outpost on the planet surface, inhabited by scientists who are there to study an ancient city. The city is apparently abandoned, but the scientists are at a loss to explain what happened to its sophisticated alien architects. The Doctor discovers that something dark, silent and deadly is also present on the world - and it is slowly closing in on the human intruders..."

It has been worked out rather nicely so that the current Doctor (played by Matt Smith in the television series) will appear in his own title in November, the Anniversary month! All stories are produced by Big Finish for AudioGO. Performers for each adventure will be announced through the year.

These audiobooks will be available for download, or on a single CD (RRP £10.20). With music and sound design courtesy of Simon Hunt, what better way to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the greatest sci-fi show on Planet Earth than to add each of these to your audio collection...

Simon Guerrier has penned the BBC Doctor Who novels The Time Travellers, The Pirate Loop, and The Slitheen Excursion; his work for Big Finish includes Key 2 Time adventure The Prisoner's Dilemma, Companion Chronicles tale Shadow of the Past (featuring Caroline John as Liz Shaw), and Sapphire and Steel outing The School. He also brought us Graceless, starring Ciara Janson and Laura Doddington as Abby and Zara respectively.


Further reading: AudioGO - official website

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Gallifrey returns to audio - Big Finish announces fifth series release date

Article author: Alwyn Ash


Romana and Leela return...

Fans of the spectacular audio drama series Gallifrey, starring Lalla Ward as Romana and Louise Jameson as Leela, will be pleased to know that there isn't long to wait until the next installment: the three-disc box set will be released in February.

Featuring stories Emancipation, Evolution, and Arbitration, this new collection of tales has been written by legends James Peaty, Una McCormack and David Llewellyn, and directed by Gary Russell.


EMANCIPATION

"Supreme Leader of Gallifrey - the Lady President Romana - is making a series of decisions that are costing her allegiances within the Inner Council. Lord High Chancellor Narvin is trying to protect the truth behind their presence there.

"Emissary Leela is trying to secure basic rights for her allies, the Outsiders, now freed from generations of bondage to their masters, the Regenerators of Gallifrey. But their enemies plan to expose the truth and let society rise or fall by the consequences of their political ambitions..."

EVOLUTION

"Before the fall of Project: Rassilon, the Regenerators of Gallifrey committed atrocities upon their slaves in the name of science. As Leela discovers the results of one such crucible, Romana and Narvin are pushing forward ways to discover the secrets of time travel, and jump-start their new Gallifrey’s evolution.

"However, science isn’t always the way forward, and in a society built upon the foundations of amorality and fear, a backward step may be the only solution…"


ARBITRATION

"Romana’s secret is in danger of being exposed by those she trusts, and the only hope of escape is through the Axis. But will Leela’s forthright determination to see justice done, whatever the costs, mean their chance to get home will be lost forever…?

"And if they are able to regain access the Axis, is the world they left behind any better than the society they have built here? Time will tell."


Other names to appear include Barnaby Edwards, Anjli Mohindra, Andy Coleman and Seán Carlsen. You can listen to a trailer now by checking out the official website.

The Gallifrey: Series 5 CD boxset has been priced at £25; digital download £20.

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Tom Baker reads... A Christmas Carol - AudioReview

Article author: Alwyn Ash


"Marley was dead: to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that. The register of his burial was signed by the clergyman, the clerk, the undertaker, and the chief mourner. Scrooge signed it. And Scrooge's name was good upon 'Change, for anything he chose to put his hand to. Old Marley was as dead as a door-nail."

For me there has always been something quite magical about Ebenezer Scrooge's encounter with spirits (not the drinking variety, I can assure you), one of them his old business partner Jacob Marley. How can one man, so tightfisted and cold that the very winter's air curls up in terror of him, really change from a young and gentle creature, so full of respect and energy, to the loathsome fossil that we encounter in the tale? He had been in love once, the beautiful Belle, a romance long lost.

I first became enchanted with this story as a kid, after being given a copy by an uncle of mine. God Bless him! Unlike most editions, this hardcover had been beautifully put together by illustrators Roger Law and Peter Fluck, using puppet characters. It was photographed by John Lawrence Jones (see: A Christmas Carol).

It is always a delight to discover audio versions, and earlier this year I had relished the thought of hearing Sir David Jason read this fantastic tale in a way that only he knew how, via AudioGO. I am a fan of the various television and film versions, too, even enjoying Disney's interpretation, starring the most famous mouse of them all, in 1983's Mickey's Christmas Carol. So I am a fine connoisseur in all things "Carol". But, following Jason's interpretation, the best was yet to come, as I have discovered...

And so, believe me when I say that the latest release from AudioGO, Tom Baker reads... A Christmas Carol, is astonishing and delicious. The most recognizable voice in the world, other than that of Brian Blessed, takes on this three-course meal of ghosts and geese, warmth and despair, prized turkeys and poverty. As narrator, Baker captures each mood, moment and heart in a way unlike any other, he takes us through Scrooge's life, from the cold and heartless atmosphere of the business known as Scrooge and Marley (a counting-house) to the merry-fabulous joy of Mr. Fezziwig's establishment.

Even if you think you know this story well, think again. Tom Baker's embrace of Charles Dickens' 1843 festive feast will have you smiling, relaxing, and feeling the spirit yourself, as we are taken on this journey through Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come.

Known for his most famous of roles, that of the Fourth Doctor in BBC's flagship sci-fi show Doctor Who, the man who traversed time and Space delivers a fine performance, one that will now remain a firm favourite of mine.

Produced by Kate Thomas with sound design by Simon Hunt, this is one spooky tale that must be listened to, and enjoyed. It feels now as if A Christmas Carol was written by Dickens specifically for Tom Baker to read, as he completely owns the story from beginning to end.

I must also pay tribute to the eye catching cover, designed by the marvelous Nick Spender, which captures Baker in perfect Scrooge-style, appearing from behind a curtain, no doubt wondering what the night has further in store for him...


Further reading: AudioGO - Official website

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Doctor Who: Destiny of the Daleks (full cast) - AudioReview

Article author: Alwyn Ash


"Robert Ayres's linking narration couldn't have been better, allowing for a smooth and intruiging transaction that compliments the original script..."

Season Twelve's Genesis of the Daleks had been a sharp, fully imagined story of birth and death, conspiracy and campaign, war and degradation. It was always going to be a hard act to follow. And yet in 1979 Destiny of the Daleks did just that, though with far less clarity and strength. The Key To Time quest now over, the Doctor and Romana (short for Romanadvoratrelundar) are travelling once more. And, of course, the Time Lord's companion wishes to have a change. And so we observe as she tries on different "bodies", a self-inflicted regeneration. Following this the time travellers arrive on an inhospitable dusty planet, a world the Doctor is quite sure he has visited before. What follows is seperation due to underground explosions, the Doctor trapped and Romana going for help.

Unlike its 1975 counterpart, the first in the Dalek adventures to star actor Tom Baker, Destiny is a much lighter experience than its predecessor. Reaching deadlock in a war against humanoid enemies the Movellans, the Daleks seek out their creator Davros, believing that the genius Kaled will help them to overcome the stalemate. This was to be Terry Nation's last script for Doctor Who.

I have to admit, there had been high expectations that this adventure would be released as a classic novel audiobook, featuring the eye-catching cover as designed by artist Andrew Skilleter. So of course the cover that we end up with is a little disappointing. However, like the Horror of Fang Rock there is much to admire about this release. Firstly Robert Ayres's linking narration couldn't have been better, allowing for a smooth and intruiging transaction that compliments the original script, polished by actress Lalla Ward's own delivery. And though this reviewer had been hoping for Tom Baker himself to have lent his vocal talents (as he did in 1979 for Genesis), there is no doubting Ward's ability. Included in this 2-CD package is both a PDF of the original camera scripts and an interview with Lalla Ward, recorded on 21st August 2012 by David Darlington, who also produced the soundtrack.

And so back to the story. If original Davros Michael Wisher gave menace to the character, a performance that Terry Molloy also delivered later on in the series, then sadly British actor David Gooderson missed out. His only contribution to Doctor Who, Gooderson failed to recapture the magic that had made the Kaled scientist such an iconic villain. Of course, he had suffered problems including a laytex mask that didn't fit too well - the decision had been made to re-use Wisher's after the actor had been unable to reprise the role.

There is something subdued about Destiny. That said however, in context with the plot we engage in a story where the Daleks are struggling in a war against an equal force, unable to triumph and exterminate. This in itself is alien to the Daleks, who are far more used to conquering worlds and enslaving races. They are also seeking help from the one being who had been left for dead by his own creations, although Davros' vision outreaches theirs, "Errors of the past will be rectified..."

No matter its weakness, this is a Dalek adventure and one that explores their need for outside assistance, no matter how powerful their race has become. Their logic can also be their Achilles' heel. Davros' independant thought - and the Doctor's, as the Movellans realise - lacks no such defect. As an addition to AudioGO's catalogue of TV soundtracks, this deserves a listen. Engage in the fun. The Daleks are back...

You can purchase Doctor Who TV Soundtracks at AudioGO Ltd: UK website • US website

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