The Stone Tape 3D Radio Play - BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4 recently added to their library The Stone Tape in 3D Sound.  Before we go any further, here's the link to the radio play so you can check it out, then digest all the *spoilers* found here.  I will come to the content in a moment but the first thing I'd like to offer is that the production of this particular drama is excellent.  With binaural sound designed specifically for headphones, I can nigh on guarantee you'll be looking around you with a shiver down your spine during some sections.  It really is better than the standard listening experience by some degree.

SPOILERS AHEAD
The Stone Tape started out life as a TV drama back in 1972.  Peter Sasdy directed (and Nigel Kneale did writing duties) and for the time it was quite forward thinking.  The concept was fairly simple - a group of scientists carry out experiments in a reputedly haunted house in relation to sound generation.  Their experimentation affects the building and a ghost/apparition/person trapped in time appears.  An altogether darker force seems buried that little bit deeper.  But is it simply a recording embedded in the brickwork or something more sinister?

This retelling of the original story is extremely high quality.  All parts are well acted and the characters are suitably fleshed out.  Romola Garai plays her part in particular excellently well, adding real life and depth to the role of Jill Greely.  Going back to the audio design, it cannot be overstated how effective this is.  The pulsing sounds of the sonic drill, the radio being left on in the background, the softly spoken dialogue... it all just adds up to some really great drama.

I appreciate that the radio play may be considered 'old form' entertainment.  That being said, the fact is that when you're in the dark, with the rain tapping on the window and something like this playing quietly, you are bound to have a shiver down your spine in no time.  The tension ratchets up to a horrifying conclusion that will have you pondering for days.  We at Thursday The 12th strongly recommend it.

Official rating: 5/5