A Little Princess: A BBC Radio 4 children’s classic

A BBC radio dramatisation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's much-loved children's story

Brought from India to chilly, fog-bound London, Sara Crewe is enrolled as a pupil at Miss Minchin's Select Seminary for Young Ladies. Her doting father, Captain Crewe, has provided her with fine clothes and luxuries fit for a princess, and she attracts envious attention. But Sara soon wins friends with her kindness, taking the school's misfits under her wing, and telling them wonderful stories to cheer them up. Yet despite her best efforts, her spiteful classmate Lavinia and mean headmistress Miss Minchin remain determined to dislike her.

Then one day, Sara receives some terrible news. Her father has died, and his fortune is lost. Suddenly penniless, Sara is stripped of all her possessions and forced to become a servant. Banished to the attic with only her dreams to sustain her, will her courage, warm heart and imagination see her through?

First published in 1905, Frances Hodgson Burnett's timeless tale has captured the hearts of generations, and is frequently ranked among the best children's novels of all time. This enchanting adaptation stars Ellie Beaven as Sara, with Julia McKenzie as Miss Minchin and Nicky Henson as Captain Crewe.

Production credits Written by Frances Hodgson Burnett Dramatised by Dave Simpson Directed by Martin Jameson Executive producer: Diane Whitley Music composed by Robert Rigby

Cast Miss Minchin - Julia McKenzie Captain Crewe - Nicky Henson Sara- Ellie Beaven Saeed/Ram Dass - Ravin J Gunatra Amelia - Fenella Norman Monsieur Dufarge/Mr Carmichael - Timothy Morand Mr Barrow/Removal man - Anthony Jackson Shop assistant - Jilly Bond Maid/Baker woman - Ali Hames Becky - Emma Copeland Ermengarde - Danielle Nelson Lavinia - Lucy Kent Jessie - Sasha Hannau Lottie - Becky Simpson Mr Carrisford - Robert Glenister Janet - Sara MacDonald Beggar girl - Carla Prosser Donald - Max Wrottesley

First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 21 December 1996

©2021 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2021 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

© 2021 BBC Digital Audio (Lydbog): 9781529143102

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Lydbog: 27. maj 2021