Nebula One (News)

New portraits of Tom Baker

2011-12-08T10:02:00.001Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Now available to purchase via Legend Photography are some fabulous portraits of the Fourth Doctor, Tom Baker. Approximately 18 inches by 12 inches, the set of images would make the perfect gift for a friend or relative, or a prized possession of your very own!

Photographer Oliver McNeil had set about to capture the many aspects of the man, the legend. He said: "We shot the portraits of Tom over two days, firstly at my studio and a week later in the historic town of Rye. After reading up on Tom's website, I discovered his love of France, and this led me to buy a bottle of red wine and serve it to Tom in a large crystal goblet. Even though it was 9am this seemed to relax Tom into the role of raconteur; I was then treated to some of his wonderful stories as we shot the session."

The special thing about these prints is that they are of the highest quality, and individually signed by Mr Baker himself; on request he will even personalise each piece of work. The company will ship worldwide, although framed prints are only available to UK customers - other countries will just receive the prints.

So what are the costs? For the portraits themselves, $315.00 each for US and Australia, £200.00 for UK (framed portraits will cost an additional £80.00 - £280.00 in total), and €235,00 for Europe.

Expensive? Well costly yes, but indeed a fine collection!

Interested? Go on over to Legend Photography and read further or place an order.

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #5 - Survivors in Space

2011-12-08T09:06:00.001Z

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Survivors in Space is the concluding part of the adventure that began in The Hexford Invasion, as well as the closing chapter of the Serpent Crest series. The Doctor has retained custody of the dangerous Skishtari gene egg for far too long and its owners intend to reclaim it.

Picking up the story three months on, we find Mike Yates presiding over a society on the brink. After the climatic tussle, which saw the quiet Sussex village of Hexford uprooted by a giant alien spaceship and sucked through a time space wormhole, we find it unceremoniously dumped on a lonely moon in outer space. Despite Mike’s best efforts, morale and supplies are running low and the outlook is grim.

Yates is not alone though, as he is aided by the Second Doctor whose bio-mesh trees have provided a breathable atmosphere and encased the village in a protective shield. But this Doctor seems to have an agenda of his own and is looking to break through the barrier.

Meanwhile, the Fourth Doctor and Mrs Wibbsey, who have the Skishtari egg in their possession, are nowhere to be seen...

Paul Magrs' imagination gives us a wonderful slice of British spirit. Faced with the impossibility of the situation, village life goes on regardless with a pub quiz and talk of the Christmas production of Aladdin. The fussy Reverend Tonge (Cornelius Garrett) comes into his own here, endeavouring to carry on though he appears to have become decidedly erratic. Joanna Tope is on hand too as the ever enthusiastic Tish Madoc making a great comic double-act with her cousin, the wonderfully worrisome Deirdre 'whatsit' (Nerys Hughes).

Mike Yates (Richard Franklin) gets to play a central role, assuming narrative duties and ruminating on the loneliness of command. There are plenty of moments for series references too; I enjoyed mentions of both the Brigadier and Sgt. Benton. It’s been great to see the character of Mike have a second lease of life within these tales and even a hint of romance too.

“Your thinking is as woolly as your ludicrous neck-wear!”

After holding off in the first part, our patience is finally rewarded by a meeting between Doctors Two and Four. It is fair to say that it’s a meeting like no other, as traditional series conventions go out of the window in favour of an argument that descends into a scuffle! Whereas some multi-Doctor tales have been less than successful over the years this particular encounter manages to set one against the other for solid story reasons, rather than Time Lord machinery or machinations, and is all the more enjoyable for it.

David Troughton’s Second Doctor and Tom Baker play beautifully against each other and there are some very amusing scenes, such as an uncomfortable meal at Nest Cottage where the Fourth brandishes his old 500 year diary and demands answers!

Mrs Wibbsey (Susan Jameson) delivers some great lines here also, clipping the wings of the Doctor’s ego with pithy asides. Her dismay at the state of her kitchen, left in the care of Mike Yates, was excellent. Wibbs seems to have developed a taste for adventure now and is far from the unwilling companion of earlier series.

Certain things that have seemed predestined since Tsar Wars do indeed come to pass. The conclusion to the tale is stirring stuff, playing out like a disaster movie as the Shishtari and the Robotovs face off with Hexford as the chosen battle ground. Serpent Crest has taken us through space adventure, historical drama and fictional worlds within worlds, but it all boils down to a fight for custody of that egg and its contents in this hugely enjoyable adventure.

Both The Hexford Invasion and Survivors in Space are available either on CD from all the usual places, or on download from AudioGO.

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #4 – The Hexford Invasion

2011-12-06T17:39:00.001Z

Post Author: Ian McArdell

After the surreal adventures of Aladdin Time, with its fictional worlds Arabian Knights storytelling, the Serpent Crest saga comes back down to Earth in The Hexford Invasion.

Mrs Wibbsey, the Doctor’s housekeeper and sometime travelling companion, was left feeling somewhat abandoned at the end of the last adventure and has had many months to get used to the mundane rhythms of village life. In the Time Lord’s absence, and with time on her hands, she appears to have become increasingly paranoid. The focus of her attentions are the comings and goings of her recently arrived neighbour Tish Madoc, the deep-voiced literary sensation and cousin of village stalwart Deirdre ‘Whatsit’.

All this comes crashing to a halt in the height of summer with the arrival of Mike Yates, back in uniform once again and on special duties. UNIT have monitored strange goings on in the area and have dispatched one of their people to handle the situation, a scruffy little fellow who likes to be known as The Doctor.

“Hello my dear, I’m sure we’re going to get along famously.”

With Doctor Two’s arrival, Mrs Wibbsey’s paranoia increases further. She steadfastly refuses to accept this tramp like stranger as the Doctor and remains entirely suspicious of him, even to the point of her following him on his night-time excursions, planting dubious tree saplings on the outskirts of the village.

Plans to prepare Hexford for a coming alien invasion do not go to plan though, as the Doctor and Mike’s warnings are met with feint ridicule. That is, of course, until a large spaceship appears overhead and then a familiar character with a long scarf turns up in his ‘blue shed’.

I suppose very few readers to this article will find the presence of this other Doctor as news, with its announcement in Doctor Who Magazine. I must admit it came as a surprise to me, despite the teasing recorder on Anthony David Dry's colourful cover illustration that had sent my mind spuriously in the directions of both Omega and The Land of Fiction.

Despite one notable occasion in the television series, recasting a specific incarnation of the Doctor has never occurred, or indeed been required as the trick of the show, and key to its longevity has been the periodic recasting of the lead role. Although it’s something audio producers Big Finish have strayed away from, and indeed appeared to be resolutely against in their early years, the advent of the BBC’s successful audio-book translations of the Target novels seem to have made this a very organic move.

Asking David Troughton to reprise his father’s role appears to have happened very naturally and is an instant fit. From his first line I was hooked and happy to accept him. While some commentators might see this as a step too far, I am content to let David Troughton be the judge. If he finds the casting acceptable then who are we to disagree? Frankly, it is a joy to hear that wonderful character on the loose again with his recorder and making references to Yeti on the Bakerloo line!

“Oh dear. Has he never explained regeneration to you?”

For this tale, Susan Jameson takes on narrating duties as it is very much told from Mrs Wibbs’ point of view. She makes some wonderful allusions to cookery and the odd attempt at humour, but it’s her refusal to trust this ‘bogus’ Doctor that makes for a really interesting slant on the character. I sympathised with her longing for her Doctor to return and when he did, his outrage at the interference from his earlier self is wonderful stuff. As ever, Tom Baker clearly loves every moment of this and his enthusiasm shines through every line.

Paul Magrs has again created a quirky range of supporting characters to populate this modern day version of Hexford, which appears to be quite the rural backwater even for deepest, darkest Sussex. From the fussy Reverend Tonge (Cornelius Garrett) to the wonderfully nosey neighbour Deirdre ‘Whatsit’ (Nerys Hughes). Also, there is the decidedly untrustworthy Tish Madoc (Joanna Tope) who claims to know something of UNIT and extra-terrestrials...

“Oh crumbs! It’s all gone a little bit wrong!”

As destruction reigns all around, it seems that the two Doctors are working against each other rather than in concert. With a climatic and surprising finale, the stage is set for the final chapter Survivors in Space where there remain a good deal of questions to be answered…

Both the The Hexford Invasion and Survivors in Space are available either on CD from all the usual places, or on download from AudioGO from 8th December 2012.

Doctor Who: Hornets' Nest comes to Radio 4 Extra

2011-12-04T13:58:00.002Z

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Digital station BBC Radio 4 Extra is to broadcast the Doctor Who audio series Hornet's Nest, starring Tom Baker, Richard Franklin and Susan Jameson. The 2009 series, originally released on CD and download in 5 parts, will be transmitted in ten thirty minute installments across two weeks.

The saga, penned by Paul Magrs, is the first of three series featuring the fourth Doctor. It begins with Mike Yates, former UNIT Captain and associate of the third Doctor, answering a mysterious newspaper advert and travelling to the mysterious Next Cottage in Sussex. There he finds the Doctor and his housekeeper Mrs Wibbsey in a spot of bother with some feisty stuffed animals and a few tall tales to tell.

Hornets' Nest will air Radio 4 Extra on weekdays from 12th - 16th and 9th - 23rd December at 6 PM.

Check out Nebula One's Past Times retrospective of the series.

Book of Celebrity Doctor Who Memories nearly complete

2011-12-02T12:10:00.002Z

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Since 2010, Steve Berry has been collecting Doctor Who memories from people in the public eye. From comedians and actors to musicians and authors, all are united by their love for Doctor Who. Each of the contributors have written about something related to the programme; be it a favourite adventure, a pivotal moment when growing up or a memory from making the show itself. As Steve puts it himself, a collection of “heart-warming, entertaining or evocative memories”.

Contributions include pieces from Who writers Terrance Dicks, Andrew Smith, Paul Cornell, Stephen Gallagher, Paul Magrs and Marc Platt, as well as actors Nicola Bryant, Hugh Bonneville, Shaun Dingwall and Nicholas Parsons.

The memories submitted so far include "the most devastating moment in Doctor Who history", "the very moment the seeds of fandom took hold" and "Final Score, Doctor Who, and the Cyberman-infested streets of London." Actor Jason Flemying promises to tell of "a secret his father shared with him about making the 1960s’ Dalek films."

Other contributors include a wealth of British comedy talent such as Mitch Benn, Charlie Brooker, Jeremy Dyson, Josie Long, Stephen Merchant, Al Murray, Chris Tarrant and Jonathan Ross. Also Roland Rat.

The project is driven by the desire to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK, after the illness endured by Steve's late mother, Janet. ARUK funds research into finding a cure for dementia.

So far, ninety contributions have been collected and ten more are sought by the end of the year, before the book can head to publication.

For more information, or to find out how you can support this very worthwhile project, visit doctorwhobook.com.

Big Blue Box for charity

2011-12-01T16:27:00.002Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Stars of the long running science fiction show Doctor Who will be attending a one day convention in January to help raise funds for Compaid.

The event, entitled Big Blue Box, takes place on Saturday 14th January 2012 at Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells. Special screenings, panel discussions, signings and more are planned to give local Doctor Who and science fiction fans a day to remember.

Among those taking part are actresses Louise Jameson, who played opposite Tom Baker as Leela, and Susan Jameson, who has recently played Mrs Wibbsey opposite Baker in Doctor Who audio plays. They will be joined by Doctor Who writers, including John Dorney, Paul Magrs and Jonathan Morris.

Several companies are backing the event, including local publisher Panini who produce Doctor Who Magazine, Doctor Who licence holders AudioGo and Big Finish, and the Tunbridge Wells branch of Waterstones,

All profits from the event will go towards Compaid’s work with disabled people in the local area.

Stephen Elsden, Chief Executive of Compaid says, “Big Blue Box marks the first ever fan convention for Doctor Who in Tunbridge Wells, which has a long history of associations with the show. From a screening of a classic Peter Cushing Dalek movie to more recent fan films, we will be taking full advantage of Trinity’s superb theatre.”

Tickets cost £25 for the day, and are available from Trinity Theatre’s box office on 01892 678678 or online at www.trinitytheatre.net.

Source: Paul Gee, with thanks!

Doctor Who Tesco competition (@TescoBooks)

2011-11-30T15:20:00.000Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Fantastic giveaway via the Tesco Books Blog for Doctor Who fans who reside in the UK and are aged 18 years or older...

To celebrate the release of Doctor Who: 100 Scariest Monsters they have a bundle of goodies including Where’s the Doctor?, The Official Annual 2012 and a great Doctor Who postcard set. To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment on their blog post saying where you’d like to go in the TARDIS. That's it!

Closing date for the competition is 9th December 2011. If you're entering, good luck! Win a Tardis-load of Goodies.

Of course, even if you are not lucky enough to win this fabulous set of prizes, Doctor Who: 100 Scariest Monsters (Hardcover) is available to purchase via Forbidden Planet for £6.99 - RRP is £9.99, saving you 30%.

"It's a big universe and there are some truly terrifying monsters out there! Here are the 100 scariest monsters the Doctor has ever encountered so far, from the devious Daleks to the weird Weeping Angels and the sinister Cybermen. With facts and stats on all the most fearsome scary monsters, this book will have you cowering behind the sofa!"

Big Finish Christmas sale 2011

2011-11-30T14:11:00.001Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

As if it were not exciting enough that Santa Clause will be visiting on 24th December, armed with presents and stealing our mince pies, audio company Big Finish has announced that its Christmas sale will start tomorrow - 1st December! And a number of titles (why did I just type 'turtles' before correcting?) due for the festive discount include Bernice Summerfield, Sapphire & Steel, Iris Wildthyme, Cyberman, Judge Dredd and more...

And, just to whet our appetites further (is that even possible?), it has been announced that "there are special deals on a variety of other items from the extensive Big Finish catalogue".

The Big Finish Christmas Sale will end on 31st December 2011, just as the hands of the New Year lead us into 2012...

Source: Big Finish

Shada publication - cover revealed for the March 2012 novel

2011-11-29T17:16:00.000Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

It is one of those 'What if...' situations: what if Season 17 had given us Shada? Sadly it just wasn't to be. The television story, written by legend Douglas Adams, was never completed due to a strike at the BBC during filming. It is a true 'lost' story...

Thanks to the pen of writer Gareth Roberts, we will now be able to explore this adventure featuring the Fourth Doctor, Romana and K-9 for the first time in novel form. Due for release on 15th March 2012, Shada is based on the original scripts.

BBC Books has unveiled the brand new cover for the publication:

Don't forget that the Big Finish audio version is also still available via their official website - for £5! - starring Paul McGann as the Eigth Doctor, Lalla Ward as Romana, and John Leeson reprising his role as K9.

"The Doctor has a spot of unfinished business. Reunited with his old friends Romana and K9, he answers a summons from Professor Chronotis, a retired Time Lord now living the academic life in a Cambridge college. But the Doctor isn’t the only visitor to Cambridge. Somewhere in the city is the sinister alien Skagra, who is intent on stealing an ancient and mysterious book brought to Earth by the Professor many years before."

Source: @DWMtweets

Doctor Who Insider: Issue 9

2011-11-29T14:28:00.001Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Doctor Who Insider is a monthly North American issue, officially licensed by BBC Worldwide and featuring 100% original material, celebrating all eras of Doctor Who. It's first publication (May issue) was released by publisher Panini Magazines on 7th April 2011 for $6.99 (US) and $7.99 (Canada).

“It feels like a magical Christmas story…”

– Matt Smith

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

Doctor Who Insider goes behind the scenes of this year’s Doctor Who Christmas Special and talks to Matt Smith and guest‐stars Bill Bailey, Arabella Weir, Paul Bazely and Alexander Armstrong to find out what’s in store.

THE FLIP SIDE

Insider talks to the cast and crew of the Big Finish Doctor Who audio drama, The Fourth Wall, and meets the Sixth Doctor’s new companion, played by Lisa Greenwood.

MOVER AND SHAKER

Doctor Who’s resident choreographer, Ailsa Berk, tells Insider how she makes the monsters move!

THE CREATURE SHOP

Visual effects designer, Mike Tucker looks back to the earliest days of Doctor Who and reveals the role that the independent company Shawcraft Models played in creating some of the show’s most iconic monsters that still feature in the present day series.

WHO’S THAT GUY?

Insider talks to Gary Russell, Anwen Aspden and Phil Ford about how they went about creating The Gunpowder Plot, the latest downloadable Doctor Who adventure game, featuring the Rutans and the Sontarans.

THE FORGOTTEN DOCTOR

Doctor Who Insider looks back to late 2003 when Richard E Grant played the Doctor in the animated Doctor Who drama, Scream of the Shalka.

I WAS… JAMIE McRIMMON (FOR TWO EPISODES)

Hamish Wilson recalls his brief time on Doctor Who in 1968 when he temporarily replaced Frazer Hines as the Doctor’s companion, Jamie.

NEXUS POINT

Insider looks back to the fateful moment when the Tenth Doctor met River Song for the first time in Silence in the Library.

DATA FILE

This issue we look at the life of the bohemian Fourth Doctor and have a rummage through his pockets and check out his friends.

MERCHANDISE

Previews of the latest Doctor Who merchandise, including a chat with Jason Arnopp, author of the new Eighth Doctor audio drama, Army of Death, and an interview with Anneke Wills who plays Polly in the Fifth Doctor audio adventure, The Five Companions. Plus, Gary Russell tells us about the trials and tribulations of writing Doctor Who – The Encyclopedia.

PLUS! The latest official news and a giant, double‐sided poster of the Eleventh Doctor with the cast of the Christmas Special, and the Fourth Doctor. Don’t miss the ninth issue of DOCTOR WHO INSIDER, out December 8, priced just $6.99!

The Doctor, The Widow and The Wardrobe - latest images

2011-11-24T17:52:00.001Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

It’s Christmas Eve, 1938, when Madge Arwell comes to the aid of an injured Spaceman Angel as she cycles home, in this year’s Doctor Who Christmas Special, starring Matt Smith as the Doctor. He promises to repay her kindness – all she has to do is make a wish.

Three years later, a devastated Madge escapes war-torn London with her two children for a dilapidated house in Dorset. She is crippled with grief at the news her husband has been lost over the channel, but determined to give Lily and Cyril the best Christmas ever. The Arwells are surprised to be greeted by a madcap caretaker whose mysterious Christmas gift leads them into a magical wintry world. Here, Madge will learn how to be braver than she ever thought possible. And that wishes can come true…

Source: BBC website

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #3 - Aladdin Time

2011-11-22T16:50:00.001Z

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Serpent Crest’s third instalment brings us worlds within worlds, and is a chance for writer Paul Magrs’ well honed fantasy sensibilities to let rip even further than usual.

“I know I keep on saying this Mrs Wibbsey, but hold on!”

At the culmination of The Broken Crown, the Doctor and Mrs Wibbsey found themselves sucked into a world lying within the powerful Skishtari egg, a dormant but dangerous item brought from the far-flung Robotov Empire of the future. Its master Alex, a confused young boy who is the cyborg heir to that empire, has grown up on 17th century Earth while ostracised from society and fed on a diet of fantastical literature. It’s these stories that have fashioned the world of fictional references presented in Aladdin Time, where our heroes find themselves in, and one book in particular holds sway, the Arabian Nights.

Using the now familiar device of a narrator in the Nest Cottage Adventures, Magrs begins the tale with a storyteller. This echoes the Arabian Nights which has as its central conceit a narrated framing device too. The Storyteller, played by Sophie Ward, has intense, yet moderated tones as she cautiously spins her tale. She’s ever mindful of her position and ensures she leaves her listener, the Shahryār, wanting more on each occasion in a cliffhanger style as her life depends upon it. Employing a formal and sophisticated language, the Storyteller draws you in as her story appears to spin out of control, taking on a life of its own when the usual rules of narrative begin to break down.

The Doctor and Wibbs find themselves beginning within the tale of Aladdin and progress through a series of caverns meeting a collection of supporting characters. All are twisted versions of the characters from the previous instalment and so Boolin, the lad’s android physician, becomes The Magician and Alex is the boy Aladdin himself. Others familiar from the previous adventure are a delight when presented too. The Doctor appears to relish being in this environment, though he insists to his companion that there will be a scientific explanation for it all.

As the characters move from cavern to cavern, the score creates an air of breeding menace employing creepily effective chimes and horns.

“Good night, sleep tight. Hope the Drashig’s don’t…”

Of all the fantastical elements, the strangest and boldest idea has to be that of the Doctor’s scarf coming to life. Voiced by Andrew Sachs, it’s a superb and surprising creation whose loyalties are interesting to try and work out. Even the Doctor seems flummoxed by this turn of events and wonderfully refers to “the treachery of knitware”.

Guy Harvey puts in another solid performance as the boy here and you really feel for him. His confusion once again threatens to engulf everything around him while he endeavours to work out what is real. He seems to cling to Mrs Wibbsey as a stabilising influence and looks after her. She too appears to have genuine affection for the lad too as they endure the trials of the journey and it’s nice to see this softer side to Susan Jameson’s performance of Mrs Wibbs.

In the post-script, the Doctor has an ingenious and typically temporal solution for the egg that both amuses and sets the stage for the concluding two chapters. It appears that the Doctor feels this adventure is over and I look forward to him discovering he’s wrong, as he surely will be, in the next instalment.

Aladdin Time is available either on CD from all the usual places, or on download from AudioGO. Serpent Crest #4 The Hexford Invasion and #5 Strangers in Space are on sale from 8th December 2012.

Nebula One (News) mentioned on Cosmic Hobo

2011-11-22T05:29:00.008Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Back in September this year we wrote a review of latest audio release The Scarifyers: The Magic Circle. Well it was a delight to see that the people behind this fabulous release have quoted part of the review: 'Nebula One adds "there's a touch of magic about The Scarifyers and this outing offers an emotional twist in its tale"' - an honour as we are big fans of this marvellous series starring Nicholas Courtney, Terry Molloy, and David Warner, and featuring a fantastic supporting cast!

If you have not yet read our review, check it out now - and find your way to the Universe of Lionheart, Dunning and Crow...

WhoNews gives to charity for November

2011-11-21T19:00:00.002Z

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

WhoNews Press Release: Following last years successful fundraising by donating the profits from WhoNews, I will be doing the same from Monday November 21st to the 28th. All profits from the WhoNews with be donated to two charities Cure Leukaemia and Little Hearts Matter.

Cure Leukaemia is a research charity which works with a number of hospitals to fund extra research nursing posts to drive forward research, provide facilities for world-class research, develop new clinical treatments for leukaemia patients, fund the provision of new drugs and treatments and support patients with blood cancers throughout the Midlands.

Little Hearts Matter is the national charity for children born with a single ventricle heart condition, more commonly called half a heart. Twenty years ago most of these children would have died within days or even hours of being born. Thankfully, today there is life-saving surgery available for many of these children, however they will not all survive the complex operations required. This open heart surgery starts when the child is just a few days old and they continue to need surgery at intervals throughout their childhood.

Those that do survive will never have a fully working heart so need to learn to live within the physical restrictions and are likely to need a heart transplant in early adulthood. Around 30% of the children who are born with this condition are unlikely to make it to the age 5. The oldest person with the severest of these conditions is 20, even for the children who do survive the condition is not curable and they will need to learn to live with the disability this life limiting condition creates.

Little Hearts Matter provides support from initial diagnosis right the way through the hazardous and frightening journey the child and family need to take. They also offer bereavement support to parents, when they sadly lose a child.

The charity also provides family days where children and families can get together. This allows the children to be normal for a day rather than the isolated children they can sometimes become at school due the physical and mental restrictions their condition creates.

Just by purchasing WhoNews from the App Store either via iTunes or on an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch, users will make a donation of £1.21 in the UK, $2.10 in the US and $1.90 in Australia. WhoNews is available from all iTunes App Stores across the world, so everybody can make a donation and keep in touch with the latest news on Doctor Who in return. You can purchase it here.

A Visit to the Doctor Who Experience

2011-10-15T16:05:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Ian McArdell - with additional comments by Francesca (aged 7)

As a child of the 70’s and 80’s, I have been to a few Doctor Who exhibitions in my time. From Longleat to Space Adventure, MOMI to the end of Brighton Pier. Initially in the company of my life long pal Adam and his Dad, a sympathetic Sci-Fi loving parent, and later on our own - once memorably cornering Sylvester McCoy for a fanzine interview. These, while thrilling, were always very much a one-way experience where one was invited to look but not touch.

The Doctor Who Experience at London’s Kensington Olympia 2 promises a new dimension, with an interactive adventure including the chance to fly the TARDIS. I set off accompanied with my eldest daughter Francesca who is now very much a fan in her own right. It’s difficult to say who was more excited.

TARDIS outside Olympia 2
© Ian McArdell 2011

The exhibition begins with the interactive adventure. In the holding area before the ‘interactive journey’ began, we were able to look at some displays from Series 5 stories. (Francesca: I enjoyed posing in the Silurian chair and having my photo taken in front of an Ironside Dalek).

Into the adventure itself: It began with an excellent montage of clips from the series, using some of the Doctor’s big speeches. After this, we entered into Starship UK’s museum where a Node from The Library gave use a tour. This was then interrupted by a call for help from the Doctor himself. To say too much more would be to spoil the surprises, but suffice to say there are three main elements to the story, A TARDIS ride, a monster encounter and then a 3D time vortex. The script is light and funny with Matt Smith delivering some cracking lines. The story re-uses elements from Series 5 such as the Pandorica and the crack in time, but remains easily accessible for someone not familiar with the shows. As an ardent Matt Smith fan, Francesca was thrilled to notice all the references, and did not find it too scary, just perhaps a bit loud in places. (Francesca: It was a little tiny bit scary when the Daleks nearly exterminated us, but at least I had Daddy with me).

Having assisted in saving the universe, and the Doctor, we entered into the main part of the exhibition. We were thrilled to see some items from A Christmas Carol, namely Elliot Sardick’s weather control station and Abigail’s cryogenic chamber with the former taking the form of a beautifully ornate church organ. (Francesca: I wanted to get inside the cryogenic chamber but not be frozen!) Sadly it was a look but not touch display.

On from this, all of the Doctor’s costumes were displayed, as well as a full sized TARDIS and Matt Smith mannequin. Despite looking like an Auton duplicate, I am pleased to say it did not lurch into life at any time! (Francesca: I liked the celery on the 5th Doctor’s costume although it didn’t look like the one in the picture. Dad said that’s because it was illusory celery!)

We spent a good deal of time pouring over a couple of display boxes at the rear of this area, entitled ‘the Doctor’s Gadgets’. In them, we found a variety of TARDIS keys and sonic screwdrivers from various eras of the show. Also present was the ‘Krafyis detector’ from Vincent and the Doctor and the Whisk from Amy’s Choice.

The Eccleston/Tennant TARDIS is truly a thing of beauty and it was great to get so close. Running on a large screen behind it was the Tenth Doctor’s regeneration sequence, to those stirring strains of ‘Vale Decem’ and we paused a while to watch the farewell and the birth of Eleven. (Francesca: It was cool, but I didn’t know TARDISes had enormous cinema screens in them!)

From there we progressed through a wonderful display of costumes from all the recent companions plus Sarah Jane, Jack, Astrid Peth. Apparently the latter was played by some sort of pop star – who knew? (Francesca: I liked Astrid’s dress and Amelia’s Duffle coat with the toggles!) Next to Sarah Jane’s costume from School Reunion was a battered K-9, still faithfully guarding his mistress and a brief note giving condolences for Elisabeth Sladen’s passing.

80s Console
© Ian McArdell 2011

A real treat for me was the 80’s TARDIS console. Lights blinking beautifully and programmed for a flight sequence that included the time rotor going up and down, we paused a while. This was the TARDIS of my youth. (Francesca: It was awesome and really white with lots of colourful buttons.) In the corner, there was a long scarf draped around a hat stand, technically a mismatch with this version but it was still a lovely touch.

Hatstand & Scarf
© Ian McArdell 2011

At the far end of the display, we also found an original TARDIS and the poor old Melkur, still looking creepily impressive despite his advancing years. (Francesca: I want to know how that is a TARDIS, Daddy says I’ll have to watch The Keeper of Traken.)

On to a great array of costumes and monsters, we moved through a display of Cyberheads, which lead on to an impressive gallery of Dalek designs. Starting with Davros, they went through the years from an original to a Special Weapons Dalek and most versions seemed to be represented, ending with a ‘Mini Cooper’ Dalek and an example of the new Paradigm. They really are much bigger than all the others are! (Francesca: I really liked the Emperor Dalek model from The Parting of the Ways but it looked very odd in comparison to all the others.) Also for comparison were three versions of Sontaran; 70s, 80’s and modern. Again, the height variation really took me aback when I saw it, as the current ones are tiny in comparison.

Mixing old and new monsters was a great idea, an Ice Warrior stood along side Cat Nuns, Zygon, Slitheen and Sycorax. Sadly, the Hoix was out for repair. We even found the Face of Boe lurking in the viewing room, keeping an eye on a Pig Slave and a scarecrow. I wondered if he might have a message for me, but apparently not.

Zygon
© Ian McArdell 2011

We much enjoyed the ‘Walk like a Monster’ area, where we took instructions from choreographer Alisa Berk on how to move like both a Cyberman and a Scarecrow. Another good interactive element was the opportunity to add the effects to ‘Danny Boy’s’ attack on the Dalek Ship from Victory of the Daleks, as well as the chance to mix the show’s theme on giant faders. (Francesca: I liked the voice changer where you could make your voice sound like a Dalek or a Cyberman. We made the Dalek say ‘Delete delete’ for fun.) Also there was a fascinating display showing an Ood, with a mask cut away to reveal the animatronics beneath.

Ood Head with animatronics
© Ian McArdell 2011

Lastly we came across a few more recent elements from the show. The wonderful ‘junk TARDIS’ with Idris’ costume and an acid suit from The Rebel Flesh. After that, exit through a little shop – the Doctor would approve.

The Doctor Who Experience is at Kensington Olympia Two and it has recently been announced that it will remain open in London until February 2012, before relocating to Cardiff. With both the interactive adventure and the exhibition you can easily while away two hours or more and we would heartily recommended it to fans of all ages. Look out online and in the press for voucher codes too.

There’s something else though, I’m sure I’m forgetting something. (Francesca: I don’t remember anything else Daddy...)

Silence
© Ian McArdell 2011

Doctor Who Magazine: Issue 440

2011-10-14T13:13:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Doctor Who Magazine began life in 1979 - although back then it was known as Doctor Who Weekly. Issue #1 was released in October of that year for the price of 12p!

It wasn't until 1980 that the issues began to be published monthly, hence the change in name to Doctor Who with the tagline A Marvel Monthly. The release of Issue #61, in 1982, meant that the magazine became known as Doctor Who Monthly. Doctor Who Magazine later emerged with issue #107 in December 1985.

FACT: DWM holds the Guinness World Record for "Longest Running Magazine Based on a Television Series."

The cover for DWM 440 (available Thursday 20th October, price £4.99) - a tribute to actress Elisabeth Sladen, who will always be in our hearts as journalist Sarah Jane Smith.

The current Editor of Doctor Who Magazine is Tom Spilsbury.

Source: @DWMtweets

The Big Review: Doctor Who - Robophobia

2011-10-13T21:40:00.005+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

WARNING: may contain spoilers!

The Doctor has been here before. Not the transport ship Lorelei, which has a cargo of over 157,000 robots on board, but the menace that stalks within. The Time Lord's first encounter with slave robots had been during his fourth incarnation, accompanied by then companion Leela. There had been deaths on a sandminer (named Storm Mine 4) and an attempt to murder the entire crew. But worse would have followed if it had not been for the Doctor's interference - his meddling had prevented further bloodshed. It appears that history, however, has been relegated to rumour, the tragedy never officially confirmed.

And so to the Lorelei... The Doctor, now in his seventh incarnation and companionless, is murdered, along with Tal Karus (portrayed by Matt Addis), a member of a support team from Kaldor City. And yet, only Tal's body is found.

Physician Liv Chenka (Nicola Walker) had known the deceased for a very short time and yet, she is saddened by his death. And then she meets the only man on the ship who knows more than he is letting on. The Doctor, mysterious and at his manipulative best, tries to help Liv see what he quite clearly does: someone, or something, is not what they seem.

A second murder and sabotage, and as usual the Doctor is suspect - the only stowaway on board! But just why has he activated the robots? And why do the slave humanoids refer to the Time Lord as Tal Karus?

"Robots cannot harm or kill humans, or by admission of action allow a Human to be harmed or killed. It is our primary command, we cannot deviate from it."

But does history say otherwise, and is such an incident happening again? As the Voc robots engage in their duties and offering help, as programmed, there is fear throughout the Lorelei. Panic and paranoia, and a sinister force at work.

There is a touch of Terror of the Vervoids here, an intriguing piece of mystery and suspense, sleight of hand by writer Nicholas Briggs that keeps you guessing until much of the way through. Fine performances from cast and crew as tension builds, the question being is Super-Voc SV10 (and the other robots) innocent in recent events or, like its counterpart in The Robots of Death, could the robot be manipulating the situation for a deadly purpose?

A further killing, this time Bas Pellico (played by William Hazell), and the crew prepare to fight. Evidence that at least one killer robot is indeed on board the transport ship is visible near the body. Communication between Kaldor City and the Lorelei is cut off and Security Chief Farel (Toby Hadoke) informs Leftenant Selerat (Nicholas Pegg) that robots have seized control of the long-range transceiver antenna. There is further robot activity and they are coming for the Humans!

The Doctor's faith in Liv eventually pays off and he gains her trust. Which is just as well...

"This time I will kill you DOCTOR!"

...as a second attempt is made on the Time Lord's life.

The acting in Robophobia is strong and Jamie Robertson's sound design offers the right balance of spaceship background noise and music (including a beautiful theme that has a direct link to the plot) to enhance the experience. Sylvester McCoy is at his devious best, a Doctor who observes and advises, stepping in when required.

The lack of recaps at the start of Part Two, Three and Four is a little strange and could make the story feel a little disjointed. However that is a minor issue. A fabulous production!

Credit to designer Simon Holub for his cover art which features Sylvester McCoy, Nicola Walker, and SV10.

Robophobia is available from Big Finish

Robophobia: an irrational fear of robots (also referred to as 'Grimwade's syndrome') - or is it an irrational fear? The robots are lurking...

Big Finish: Vortex - Issue #32

2011-10-13T11:21:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

In March 2009 audio company Big Finish brought us Vortex, a free magazine (or ezine) dedicated to all things BF.

Released monthly, every issue gives us an insight into BF productions: behind-the-scenes, interviews, upcoming releases, and much more. Available as a PDF or Doc download, or to read online via Flash. All previous issues are still accessible, via its webpage.

If you want to learn more about what goes on in the Universe that is Big Finish, or would simply like to kill some time, then Vortex is a nice choice.

The latest issue is available now from Big Finish: Vortex. Recommended entertainment for all audio lovers out there!

"NICHOLAS BRIGGS AND RICHARD EARL reunited as Holmes and Watson"

BF has an official Twitter presence: check out @bigfinish.

And Facebook: Big Finish Productions

Patrick Troughton: Before The Screaming Begins on @BBCRadio4extra

2011-10-10T10:30:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Prepare for a sci-fi adventure featuring the Doctor! Except... it's not the Doctor!

Actor Patrick Troughton can be heard in today's Before The Screaming Begins, a three-part 1977 audio series about a wife who reports the abduction of her husband during their wedding anniversary celebrations - except the local police are decidedly doubtful. But then more and more abductions are reported... This alien invasion tale was written by English writer Wally K Daly.

Before The Screaming Begins will air Monday 10th to Wednesday 12th October 2011 at 6pm (repeated Midnight) on BBC Radio 4 Extra.

Don't forget if you miss it, this production will be available on BBC iPlayer for a limited time following the original broadcast.

Wally K. Daly also wrote the 1989 Doctor Who novel The Ultimate Evil (published by Target Books), featuring the Sixth Doctor and Peri and based on a cancelled script from the 1986 season.

Doctor Who Insider: Issue 7

2011-10-07T14:03:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Doctor Who Insider is a monthly North American issue, officially licensed by BBC Worldwide and featuring 100% original material, celebrating all eras of Doctor Who. It's first publication (May issue) was released by publisher Panini Magazines on 7th April 2011 for $6.99 (US) and $7.99 (Canada).

"I did a lot of research that included going to various locations and hearing a lot of his tapes which have all his speeches on it so that I could get some of his cadences together."

- Ian McNeice on playing Winston Churchill

CHURCHILL'S VICTORY

Following his return to Doctor Who as Winston Churchill in The Wedding of River Song, Ian McNeice reveals his delight at being part of the extended Doctor Who family.

ACE IN THE 80'S

Sophie Aldred shares her memories of playing groundbreaking companion Ace opposite Seventh Doctor, Sylvester McCoy.

THE DOCTOR'S WHEELS

Whilst exiled on Earth in the 1970's, the Doctor acquired two very different vehicles to transport him too and from his adventures - Bessie and the Whomobile. Insider investigates the real life story of both cars, revealing their origins and attempting to find out where they are now.

DORIUM'S DELIGHT

Simon Fisher-Becker couldn't be happier to be playing blue man, Dorium Maldovar. Insider finds out why.

I WAS... ADOLF HITLER

Albert Welling tells Insider what it was like to play the most hated man in history in Let's Kill Hitler.

NEXUS POINT

Whilst on trial by his own people, the Time Lords, the Sixth Doctor is slightly surprised to discover that his prosecutor, the Valeyard, is in fact a future version of himself!

DATA FILE

We take a look at the life of the whimsical Second Doctor and his companions.

TIME SCOOP

Insider follows the Doctor and his companion Romana on their quest for the six segments of the Key to Time.

MERCHANDISE

Previews of the latest Doctor Who merchandise, including the special edition of The Talons of Weng-Chiang on DVD. Authors Emma Beeby and Gordon Rennie tell Insider how they wrote Big Finish Productions' new audio drama The Doomsday Quatrain, featuring the Seventh Doctor. And writer Naomi Alderman explains how she plays tricks with time in her new Doctor Who novel, Borrowed Time.

FAN ZONE

Insider presents a special report on this year's Comic-Con event in San Diego where Doctor Who was featured in a big way! PLUS! The latest official news and a giant, double-sided poster of the Eleventh Doctor with Winston Churchill and the Second Doctor.

Don't miss the seventh issue of DOCTOR WHO INSIDER, out October 6, priced just $6.99!

Doctor Who: The Complete David Tennant Years DVD set almost here...

2011-10-06T16:36:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

If you are missing David Tennant, so brilliantly cast as the Tenth Doctor, and still do not own the entire collection of DVDs - The Complete David Tennant Years (Region 1 set) is to be released very soon: Tuesday 11th October, 2011!

"David Tennant first appeared as The Doctor in 2005, and went on to star in three seasons and eight specials as the tenth incarnation of the Time Lord. BAFTA-winner Russell T Davies (Torchwood, Queer as Folk) is lead writer and executive producer and BAFTA-winner Julie Gardner (Torchwood, Life on Mars) is executive producer.

"This collection celebrates Tennant’s tenure by bringing together The Complete Second Series co-starring Billie Piper (Secret Diary of a Call Girl) as Rose Tyler, The Complete Third Series co-starring Freema Agyeman (Law & Order: UK) as Martha Jones and The Complete Fourth Series co-starring Catherine Tate (The Office, The Catherine Tate Show) as Donna Noble, all eight specials, and two spin-off animated adventures, in a collectible package."

Click on above image to pre-order

Includes every episode and special throughout David Tennant’s reign as the Tenth Doctor

Contains over 39 hours of programming and over 27 hours of bonus features on 26 discs

Bonus features include deleted scenes, audio commentary, David Tennant’s Video Diary and more

Release date: October 11, 2011

Length: 2385 min + 1636 min. bonus features

SRP: $199.98 ($227.25 in Canada)

DVD Region: 1 (for use in U.S. and Canada)

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #2 - The Broken Crown

2011-10-06T13:49:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Ian McArdell

After the interstellar action of series opener Tsar Wars, the second instalment of Serpent Crest series brings us firmly back down to Earth.

The Broken Crown begins the Doctor and Mrs Wibbsey stranded in time thanks to their actions at the end of the previous adventure. They are in the right place, Hexford village, but the wrong time because in 1861 Nest Cottage has yet to be built.

Beginning their search for the Robotov refugees, robotic Medic Boolin and the young cyborg and Imperial Heir Alexander, the Doctor is also concerned about the whereabouts of a dangerous alien egg that he intended to take into custody. Receiving a somewhat hostile reception from Rector Dobbs, who spends his days drowning troubles in gin at the bar of The White Heart, Mrs Wibbsey is suffering a little culture shock. Meanwhile the Doctor becomes concerned about Hexford’s the “ineffable air of menace and doom” and begins to investigate a spate of mysterious disappearances…

The Broken Crown is a far more intimate tale than the previous instalment and a marked shift in tone, revolving around a small village Rectory and a troubled child. Both the Doctor and Mrs Wibbsey have some fun investigating and it is great to see Wibbs being proactive, talking her way into the role of Rectory Housekeeper at the first sniff of intrigue. The Doctor on the other hand interacts with the children, and Baker is at his jokey charismatic best with them.

Like the previous Fourth Doctor tales, the story is related partially through narration. In this instance the chosen voice is that of the Reverend’s thirteen year-old ward and he draws us into the pain and confusion of his cosseted world well. Played confidently by young actor Guy Harvey, Andrew is a tortured soul whose disfigurement and treatment have caused him to become a social outcast, observing village life from a distance. Yet he is an imaginative lad who has developed friendships with other local children and learnt how to come in and out of his Rectory home unnoticed. Another notable member of the guest cast is Terrance Hardiman, who starred in 2010’s The Beast Below, here giving life to the role of the world weary Reverend Dobbs.

Writer Paul Magrs again provides a script with sparkling dialogue and Tom Baker delivers some amusing comic asides, including gems like being “a hundred and fifty years too early for bingo and chicken-in-a-basket” and giving direction to the villagers on how to handle a dragon. Magrs is on firm ground with the sinister use of fairy tales and manages some great misdirection before the finale, whilst laying in groundwork for the next part of the saga too. A sparse score lends an air of brooding menace with some excellent scares provided by jangly piano cues. With a dramatic and claustrophobic cliffhanger to conclude the story, I look forward to November’s instalment, entitled Aladdin Time.

The Broken Crown is available either on CD from all the usual places, or on download and CD from AudioGO from October 6th 2011.

Demon Quest – The Complere Series (Box Set)

In addition, 6th October sees the release of a CD box set containing all five stories that comprise 2010’s excellent Demon Quest series by Paul Magrs. The tale, ranging across time, chronicles the Doctor’s journey to recover vital TARDIS components that Mrs Wibbsey accidentally gave away at a Bring and Buy Sale. Once again in the company of Mrs Wibbsey, and also Mike Yates, he travels to locations as diverse as Roman Britain, the Moulin Rouge and 1970’s New York as the Demon endeavours to ensnare him.

Check here for a Past Times Special covering the series.

Sadie Miller, daughter of Elisabeth Sladen, speaks to the Radio Times

2011-10-04T18:41:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

To us, the fans, she shall always be journalist Sarah Jane Smith. But to Sadie Miller, 26 years, Elisabeth Sladen is simply “Mum.”

The young English graduate talks about her mother, the career that made Elisabeth so famous, and meeting past Doctors... Beautiful memories are shared of their time together, for example how “Mum loved being domestic and she was a very nurturing person: she used to come and teach at my school as a classroom helper and she did amazing parties. When I was six, I had a ‘mermaid party’ and Mum made fishtails for all the girls – and some of the boys – out of bubble wrap and sequins.”

And though she won't be watching the new series of The Sarah Jane Adventures at present, “I find it just a bit strange. I can’t really watch it too soon. But I know I’ll enjoy watching them again at some stage. And if I have children it will mean a lot to watch it with them. Mum would have been a wonderful grandma and I feel sad that she won’t get to experience that.”

You can read the full interview at www.radiotimes.com.

Team Rassilon #6 - Doctor Who: The Wedding of River Song

2011-10-04T17:19:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Welcome to “Short Review” by Team Rassilon, a group of dedicated Whovians who are prepared to share their thoughts on a particular subject with you, the reader. Please be aware of potential spoilers. Now let's see what inspiration brings...

Ian McArdell, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @IanMcArdell)

The joy, of course, was in trying to spot how the Doctor could cheat death before it was spelt out. Many would have guessed already, but that was hardly the point as this was always destined to be a glorious, if complex romp.

A high concept approach gave us cars under hot-air balloons, Emperor Churchill and pterodactyls menacing the Royal Parks. Dickens’ cameo was masterstroke, teasing the inspiration for last year’s Christmas Special in a way that only Moffat would dare to. With a dying Dalek and a Cave of Skulls, the show wore its past on its sleeve throughout, but in a subtle enough manner not to distract. That said, the Brigadier reference took me utterly by surprise and brought a lump to the throat.

There were many great moments and with the show’s central question restated, one wonders if we are being prepared for the journey that leads to the 50th Anniversary. Reports of his demise have been greatly exaggerated. On this evidence, the Doctor would appear to be in rude health!

Jay Kelley, United States
(Twitter: @Doctor_Hue)

Only the Tardis can fit this entire episode in under a hundred words. So I’ll just hit a few basics here. Time as we know it has ceased to exist. Something has impacted the space-time continuum resulting in the amalgamation of history. All eras are frozen in time and happening at once -- 5:02 pm. That something was River Song’s refusal to kill the Doctor – thus violating a fixed point in time. The Doctor resolves everything via the Teselecta from the Lets Kill Hitler episode. The Doctor who dies is actually the Teselecta filling in for him. One more thing. The Doc is a married man now.

Andy Weston, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @ColeHawlins)

A tour de force from Alex Kingston, the most touching tribute to Nicholas Courtney (that caused this thirty two year old man to well-up) and a breakneck pace that didn’t even pause for breath: The Wedding of River Song had a lot to wrap up, and it delivered in spades. A Dalek, carnivorous skulls, deadly chess and we found out what those eye-patches were really for in addition to resolving the Doctor’s death (c’mon, he couldn’t really die, could he?) and how River fit into that particular puzzle. Christmas can’t come soon enough – we’ve never had it so good!

Dale Who, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @FishCustard2010)

So, the death of The Doctor. It was all so very simple in the end. Y'know, apart from all the bits that weren't. The season finale had a lot to tie up, which it managed admirably, and at breakneck speed. There were some cracking moments and lines in the show, a brilliant performance by Frances Barber who seemed to be relishing her role as the ill-fated Madame Kovarian, and The Silence short-lived mocking of Rory as "the man who dies and dies again" was brilliant, pointed, accurate... and then Amy massacred them with a machine gun. I guess she really is tired of waiting... Beautifully written, admirably acted and directed, and with enough cameos to keep most fans happy.

Dear Santa,

I'd like a somewhat gentler plotted season next year; more standalone episodes and another Gaiman episode would be lovely, but above all else the thing I want more than anything, the one thing I absolutely need to have... is the wonderful, brilliant and all-conquering Matt Smith continuing as The Doctor for a long time yet. He's my hero. And heroes are cool.

Alix Cavanagh, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlixCavanagh)

The Wedding of River Song almost doesn’t feel like a season finale. True, there’s the traditional end of season cameos and alt-London, one part Steampunk and two parts Jasper Fforde-esque (a future guest writer?), which is beautifully batty. The terrifying skulls will be haunting lots of kiddies’ nightmares and the interplay between River and the regulars just gets better and better.

While it successfully knits together a lot of this season’s questions, there are still some that haven’t been touched and it goes on to pose even more. While this is more than a touch frustrating, there is much to admire in the scope and ambition of Moffat’s storytelling.

Is it Christmas yet?

Alwyn Ash, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlwynAsh)

A beautiful tribute to Nicholas Courtney, a defenceless Dalek, a cave of skulls (just imagine if the First Doctor had encountered these fantastically evil versions in An Unearthly Child – 1963), an electrifying game of Chess, a return of the Teselecta (Justice Department Vehicle that can physically imitate anyone), and River Song refusing to abide by the laws of space and time.

The Wedding of River Song might not feel like a traditional season finale, but its mysterious end promises that something is still to come – “It’s all still waiting for you…. The fields of Trenzalore, the fall of the Eleventh. And the question! The first question! The question that must never be answered, hidden in plain sight. The question you’ve been running from all your life. Doctor who?”

Simple resolution but engaging.

Beth Evers, United States
(Twitter: @beth_evers)

The Wedding of River Song, a twisty-turny, timey-wimey, wibbly-wobbly tale if there ever was one. But I have to say, it all worked for me. River Song refuses to kill the Doctor, and a time bubble is created, an alternate reality, in which every time exists simultaneously. Time can’t move forward unless the Doctor dies.

I have come to like River throughout this series, and it was nice to have a bit of a payoff to her story. Alternate Amy was gorgeous and one tough cookie. And it was fab to see Rory in command. It definitely suited him. Finally! Loved the companions, loved the Doctor, loved the ending. Can’t wait for Christmas!

Join Paul Magrs on Facebook!

2011-10-03T17:03:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Paul Magrs fans will be pleased to know that the author of Brenda and Effie and creator of Iris Wildthyme now has an official Facebook page dedicated to all his work, signings etc., so please do go along and "Like".

Also, the second part of Doctor Who: Serpent Crest will be available to purchase this week, 6th October 2011 - The Broken Crown features Tom Baker as the Fourth Doctor and Susan Jameson as Mrs Wibbsey. In addition to this, the complete Demon Quest series is to be released on the same day - see here on or after the date to order...

If you are interested in connecting with Paul then do check out the following links:

Facebook

Twitter

Website

Triangle (2009) - review

2011-10-02T15:01:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Just when you think you know what's coming, writer and director Christopher Smith grabs the plot and distorts it to such a level that you begin to find yourself watching a clever psychological thriller with more twists and turns than a complicated road system. It is also thanks to actress Melissa George's fabulous acting that you believe every step of this journey of madness. I am not often so overwhelmed by a film, but Triangle is, in my opinion, a must-see! So why is it such a success?

George plays Jess, a young woman and single mother who is quite clearly failing to cope with her autistic son, played so wonderfully here by Joshua McIvor. We next see her agreeing to join some friends on a boat trip. However, there is a sinister electrical storm and the group is capsized. So when they are rescued by an ocean liner everything turns out to be OK, right? Wrong!

In a cross between Dead Calm and The Twilight Zone, we, the viewers, are taken on a journey of our own through the corridors of the liner and director Smith's manipulative mind. Something, or someone, is stalking the survivors, and before long there is the twist that'll have you whooping and gripped! They are not alone and the villain is...

... oh my god - not so straight forward!

It is amazing to see how far George has come since her days as Angel Parish in Australian soap opera Home And Away - she has appeared in both The Amityville Horror remake (2005) and vampire horror 30 Days of Night (2007), yet she is no scream queen and there is absolutely no danger of this talented actress being typecast by such parts!

Triangle is both intense and emotional, you really want George's character to find a way out of this nightmarish world, and return to her son, unharmed both physically and psychologically.

But as the insane scenario develops we come to realise that you just cannot out-think destiny, or you'll go mad trying! How many times have we watched those poor helpless victims in Final Destination think they've out-guessed Death, only to die in a neat and unpredictable way?

Except, for Jess, it isn't a matter of dying, as you'll discover. There is more agony in mental torture than there is in the last moments of life - the dead are rewarded with peace of mind, at some point.

Jess is not!

Rating: ★★★★☆

Free print offer available via andrewskilleter.com

2011-10-01T14:26:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Artist and children's book illustrator Andrew Skilleter has long been associated with Doctor Who, commissioned to bring life to the many books, videos, magazines and CDs available on the market at one time or another.

Born in the UK, Andrew is also an official Star Wars artist and had founded Who Dares Publishing in addition to the publication of several books in both the UK and US. New commissions accepted - just visit his official webpage for more details!

And so to the free print...

"Purchase any two prints from the shop between now and December 5th [2011] and you will receive, completely free, a unique facsimile A4 print of Andrew’s pencil ‘rough’ for the Doctor Who Target Invasion book cover, reproduced to the same size as the original. It is printed in 8 Colours using light fast archival inks with a lifespan of over 75 years and printed on 202 gsm cream water colour paper, each produced, approved, titled, and signed by the artist.

"This print will not be released commercially and is likely to become a collector’s item. Set discreetly at the bottom of the print in grey type is the following text: 'A Fascimile of the ‘Rough’ drawing for the The Invasion for the Doctor Who Target series as submitted to W H Allen 1984'"

New art has been added to the shop including Target book covers The Invasion and Sunmakers. Do also keep up with news via Andrew's personal blog.

There is no denying that Andrew's work is both beautiful and a fantastic way to celebrate your favourite show, person or character...

Team Rassilon #5 - Doctor Who: Closing Time

2011-10-01T11:38:00.004+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Welcome to “Short Review” by Team Rassilon, a group of dedicated Whovians who are prepared to share their thoughts on a particular subject with you, the reader. Please be aware of potential spoilers. Now let's see what inspiration brings...

Ian McArdell, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @IanMcArdell)

Gareth Roberts provided a heart-warming, domestic tale set against the backdrop of a Doctor who knows his time is short. Corden and Smith reprised their odd couple act easily and I enjoyed seeing what Craig had made of himself after rising to the occasion so superbly at the end of The Lodger. Infant antics were just the right side of sweet, with some wonderfully melancholic dialogue in the scene where the Doctor’s left holding the baby. The rag-tag Cyber menace was well handled, though it was plainly second fiddle to the character story being played out. Of course, any feel-good vibes eroded with speed in the superbly doom-laden coda. Time is up. Silence will Fall.

Jay Kelley, United States
(Twitter: @Doctor_Hue)

Night Terrors is scary. The Girl Who Waited is heartbreaking and The God Complex is heady. But of the last four episodes, this one is my personal favorite. It features the Doctor just being the Doctor. Funny, heroic, irrevocably sentimental and compulsively humanitarian. Knowing his death is eminent, the Doctor visits Craig for therapeutic reasons and ends up saving the day. Before he does, though, Craig gives the Doctor all the validation and closure he needs. Plenty of laughs and tears along the way too. This is the most manipulative episode so far. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll have a nervous breakdown. Now bring on the wedding!

Andy Weston, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @ColeHawlins)

The Doctor’s on his farewell tour, last stop Colchester. It’s a joy to see James Corden return as Craig, and the interplay between him and Matt Smith is acted beautifully. There is a definite lightness of touch here, which is just the thing needed before the doom-laden finale. While the Cybermen may as well have been any alien race – and thus a little wasted here – their threat was just the right last challenge for the Doctor. With a closing scene that dangles tantalisingly into next week’s finale, this was just what the doctor ordered (pun very much intended).

Dale Who, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @FishCustard2010)

Closing Time took this season's parent-offspring bonding theme to the next level, and on this occasion it worked very well. Gareth Roberts' humour in both story and dialogue, the Cyberthreat, and the sheer insanity of the Doctor working in a shopping centre transpired to make for a light, fun, mammothly enjoyable episode. James Corden was superb as Craig, coping - or not - with Alfie, but the show belonged to Matt Smith who took the comedy and the horror in his stride and showed us just how perfect a Doctor he is. And just when you thought it was over, Madame Kovarian turns up in a library....

Alwyn Ash, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlwynAsh)

Am I the only one to find Closing Time a little… empty? Yes, it was overloaded with sentiment as Craig faces the responsibility of being a father, and the character-driven story was full of humour throughout, but the Cyber plot quite clearly played nothing more than an excuse for Matt Smith and James Corden's reunion.

To begin with, which Cybermen were in this story – Cybus or Mondas? Considering the importance of the latter not being present during the Russell T Davies era of Doctor Who, I find it altogether lazy that they have been integrated without proper introduction. Do fans really have a short attention span? A Cybus-Mondas war would have been a good start, the Classic villains winning over Lumic’s creations!

Still, it can't get any worse - can it?

Alix Cavanagh, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlixCavanagh)

This isn’t really a Cybermen story, as the real joy of this episode is the interplay between James Corden (playing himself, but oh – he does it well) and Matt Smith. Smith gives a masterful performance; by turns moving, poignant and funny, his farewell tour knocks Tennant’s into a cocked hat.

The horrible moment when Craig is enclosed within the Cyber Controller’s headpiece has real terror and again the redemptive power of children is emphasised - a message for the finale perhaps?

And why doesn’t Craig remember the Battle of Canary Wharf and therefore the Cybermen?

Cutting costs at the BBC affects Doctor Who

2011-09-30T19:15:00.005+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

I have just returned from a short vacation to North Wales. The caravan was excellent, views spectacular, and I had breakfast in Rhyl on Wednesday (a lovely cafe called snax, Wellington Road). It was just the break I needed!

However, upon my return, I learn that Doctor Who Confidential has been axed. A shame. Since 2005 this fabulous documentary series has informed, entertained and kept us involved with the productions, script writing, and general behind-the-scenes madness, each episode an invaluable insight into how a fantastic series such as Doctor Who is put together.

I suppose we should be thankful that it isn't the show itself that is facing the chop. But, with such a large fanbase and plenty of enthusiasm for everything Who, how many of you were shocked by the news that DW:C is to vanish from our screens? Quite frankly it isn't that long ago since someone said to me on Facebook: “They [BBC] won't axe Doctor Who Confidential, it's too popular!”

But producer Zoe Rushton had confirmed via her Twitter status by linking to the article on the www.guardian.co.uk website: Doctor Who Confidential axed by BBC.

No longer a priority for the corporation?

According to the newspaper, Doctor Who Confidential has been axed to pave the way for “original commissions in post-watershed time slots.”

BBC controller Zai Bennett says:

It's about focusing my budget on 9pm and 10.30pm; those are the time slots that count. Budgets are tight, so we have to be sensible with the money we have.

More will be announced regarding the BBC's cost-cutting strategy on 6th October 2011. We have been told that BBC Three is likely to air repeats of BBC1 shows between its 7pm to 9pm time slots; let's just hope that the corporation doesn't change the name to BBC1+1 and decide that 'repeats' are simply the best way forward to engage in productive cost-cutting!

Similar concerns have surrounded popular channel BBC Four, which launched in 2002. Many have stated that this channel, famous for its arts and music programmes, needs to be protected from cancellation, or a drastic revamp. There is absolutely no doubt that the BBC needs to cut costs, but at the expense of valuable television?

Corrie: The Road to Coronation Street

Personally I have enjoyed such engaging shows on BBC Four as Corrie: The Road to Coronation Street, The Curse of Steptoe (though highly controversial and accused of being inaccurate), Fantabulosa (drama surrounding the life of troubled Carry On comedian Kenneth Williams), and repeats of Sykes (British sitcom starring Eric Sykes and Hattie Jacques) and Juliet Bravo.

If cost-cutting is required then why not repeat Classic Doctor Who from the very beginning on BBC Four - or would that affect the corporation's DVD sales? And just what does the future hold in store for our favourite Time Lord? If DW:C can succumb to the unthinkable...

Would you like an opportunity to spread the word and let your voice be heard? Go on over to petitionbuzz.com and join the 20,208 signatures currently visible - the number is growing all the time!

Save Doctor Who Confidential!

When Worlds Collide #2

2011-09-24T12:55:00.004+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Inspired by the title of the Philip Wylie and Edwin Balmer 1933 novel - here I take a look at various crossovers, interesting connections and more. Let's see what the Universe has in store for us...

This latest evidence just goes to show that even Doctor Who monsters like to emulate one another - who would have thought that The Abzorbaloff and a Marshman would have something in common? On other days they chase unsuspecting Humans around car parks disguised as Daleks!

“I'm a Marshman!”

The Abzorbaloff first appeared in 2006 story Love & Monsters, a mostly Doctor-lite adventure featuring Peter Kay, Marc Warren, Shirley Henderson, Simon Greenall, and Moya Brady.

“I'm The Abzorbaloff!”

You can find the Marshmen in 1980 Fourth Doctor serial Full Circle, co-starring Lalla Ward (Romana), Matthew Waterhouse (Adric), and John Leeson as the voice of K-9 Mark II.

Colin Baker: "Parking daleks will drive trade away"

2011-09-24T09:30:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Colin Baker, a legend in the world of Doctor Who, has been writing his own column for Bucks Free Press, a weekly newspaper that covers the area surrounding High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England.

His regular contribution has become so popular that a collection of his columns have been published in two books entitled "Look Who's Talking" and "Second Thoughts", printed and released by Hirst Publishing. Success aside, Colin continues to update his columns.

"Parking daleks will drive trade away"

Expensive parking! Colin says: "If town centre visitors fall foul of such inflexible enforcement attitudes within seconds of arriving in a town, what impression does it leave?" (Thursday 22nd September 2011)

Source: Bucks Free Press

About Alwyn Ash

Born in North West England, Alwyn (who prefers to be known as Al - and yes, Paul Simon jokes have been said before) enjoys writing, reading - and "dancing with bears!"

Since early 2010 he has written for Nebula One (News), taking over as Editor later that year. Film fanatic, especially horror; vampires and zombies preferred! Fan of The Morganville Vampires book series, Pepsi Max, and a traditional Sunday Roast.

"Bah! Humbug!" - no thanks, Al's favourite quote is: "Love life and people, and life and people might consider loving you back." OK, not a quote - he wrote it!

Proud to be a geek!

OK, one more time - You Can Call Me Al! *cue music*

Twitter: @AlwynAsh

Michael Keating reprises role as Blake's 7 thief

2011-09-23T13:23:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Big Finish has announced that British actor Michael Keating is to return as Vila Restal in new Blake's 7 adventure Solitary, written by award-winning playwright Nigel Fairs.

The story is “an unsettling mystery in which Vila wakes up in a cell aboard the Liberator, and tries to piece together his fractured memory. Why are his friends planning to kill him? The enigmatic Nyrron holds the answers… but will he tell?”

The Liberator Chronicles audio series is being directed by Lisa Bowerman, script edited by Justin Richards and produced by David Richardson; it is to be released in early 2012 as a three-disc CD box set and for download.

Other stories include The Turing Test (written by Simon Guerrier) and Counterfeit (by Peter Anghelides, author of 2010 Big Finish adventure The Four Doctors).

It has also been announced that a second box set will follow in August 2012 (and a novel range to launch in May 2012) - titles are yet to be confirmed! However, you can pre-order in advance if you so wish:-

Blake's 7: Novel #1 - Price: £14.99

The Liberator Chronicles box set #1 - Price: £25.00 (CD)

In July 2011 B7 Enterprises announced the licence deal with Big Finish Productions to produce original audiobooks and novels based on Terry Nation’s popular science fiction series.

Source: Big Finish

The Fades: Episode 1 - review

2011-09-22T18:45:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Warning: this article may contain spoilers!

It is almost difficult to believe that anything else could match the pure escapism and magic that Doctor Who currently enjoys. However, last night something so different, a television event, dropped out of the sky (just like dead birds) and took us in. The Fades is a supernatural thriller written by Jack Thorne (Skins, This Is England '86) and from the off there was something special about it. A woman is murdered, an unearthly creature stalks a building, a young man encounters a world of darkness that not everybody else sees... welcome to Paul's nightmare! So what makes this new drama so compelling?

Firstly the chemistry between actors Iain de Caestecker and Daniel Kaluuya, who play Paul and Mac, is remarkable in itself and helps to raise the characterisation to beyond satisfactory - even in a tale that explores death, it is always good to make light of a situation. And talking of light, I shall get to the ghosts in a moment.

The second delight in this mix of supernatural is the introduction of elements that will make this story a classic: poison in the eye, the moth (in a fantastic Jaw-dropping scene featuring Daniela Nardini and Johnny Harris), lonesome phantoms on rooftops straight out of a Charles Dickens ghost story, and souls searching for their afterlife...

And so to the darker elements (as if a moth out of the mouth wasn't dark enough *spoilers*), the sinister creature introduced from the start is committing murder - but why? Paul's night terrors envision an apocalypse, a possible future event? And just what makes him so special? Not only can he see spirits of the dead, but by the end of the episode he collapses and... absorbs some kind of energy, the same power that Helen (Nardini) displayed in an earlier scene?

So just what are the Fades? It is explained that they are dead people who have been unable to ascend - they are trapped on this Mortal coil, forever doomed to observe but never again interact; it is also revealed that these pathetic beings burn up and reform each time organic matter passes through them.

There is much to admire here, and both cast and crew deserve credit for giving us something new and incredible.

I suppose the question is: can the quality be maintained in further episodes? Let's hope so, because this is one series that has the potential to make Wednesday nights an event...

Want to read more?

Check out the blog by The Fades writer Jack Thorne.

Doctor Who: The Lost Stories - The Elite

2011-09-22T15:57:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Another fabulous audio adventure starring Peter Davison as the Fifth Doctor, Janet Fielding as Tegan Jovanka, and Sarah Sutton as Nyssa.

The Doctor offers Tegan and Nyssa a trip to the paradise world of Florana, but instead the TARDIS takes them to a domed city on a planet scarred by warfare. A world where everyone is young, and fighting for the glory of the Elite... Hidden away in The Cathedral of Power, the High Priest is watching. It knows the Doctor, and his arrival changes everything...

This story takes place between Arc of Infinity and Snakedance..

CAST:
Peter Davison (The Doctor), Janet Fielding (Tegan Jovanka), Sarah Sutton (Nyssa), Joe Coen (Aubron), Ryan Sampson (Thane), Derek Carlyle (Alaric), Joannah Tincey (Stemp), John Banks (Garthak), Ellie Burrow (Ella)

WRITER:
John Dorney (based on a story by Barbara Clegg)

DIRECTOR:
Ken Bentley

Pre-order now from Big Finish - Doctor Who: The Lost Stories - The Elite.

CD (Discs: 2) - Price: £14.99
ISBN: 978-1-84435-573-0

The cover art was designed by Alex Mallinson.

Source: Big Finish

The Scarifyers: The Magic Circle - review

2011-09-22T11:43:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

It is always a delight to discover something new, especially when it is as wonderfully scripted as The Scarifyers: The Magic Circle, an audio adventure following the exploits of Professor Dunning as he attempts to find his old friend, Inspector Lionheart.

To understand a little about this audio series you must take a step back to the first five stories - in 2006 actors Nicholas Courtney and Terry Molloy were cast as Lionheart and Dunning respectively, two characters brought together to investigate mysterious happenings; Dunning is a ghost writer and professor of Ancient History at London University, Lionheart works for the Metropolitan Police.

Over the course of five stories the two investigators face sinister clowns, Russian demons, an inter-dimensional being and far more, resulting in Lionheart setting up top-secret government department MI-13 in second adventure The Devil of Denge Marsh.

There is no doubt that Lionheart is the man who gets things done while Dunning, though obviously very enthusiastic, is not someone to face the darkness alone.

And so to The Magic Circle, the sixth adventure in the series. Nicholas Courtney died in early 2011, leaving behind fond memories from a fanbase who dearly loved him and a remarkable career. The decision was made to continue with The Scarifyers, casting seasoned actor David Warner in the role of Harry Crow, Lionheart’s former colleague in the force.

The plot for The Magic Circle revolves around Professor Dunning's concerns and search for Lionheart. The tale is both touching and electrifying, oozing humour throughout. Molloy's delivery as Dunning never fails to make me smile, his reaction the perfect treat; in one scene, he clearly fails to realise that there is no such thing as a talking rabbit! Although, I suppose, in the world of the Scarifyers, perhaps it is always a possibility...?

Warner, too, hits the mark with an eagle-eye approach and years of police force experience behind Crow.

Produced by Cosmic Hobo Productions, The Scarifyers: The Magic Circle is written by Simon Barnard (who produces & directs) and Paul Morris, with music by Edwin Sykes.

There is a touch of magic about The Scarifyers and this outing offers an emotional twist in its tale, thanks to the acting talent of Stephen Thorne, who portrays a very special character indeed.

And lastly, as an extra treat, a beautiful tribute to Nicholas Courtney from cast and crew: Terry Molloy, Simon Barnard and Paul Morris, David Benson, Lizzie Roper, Ewan Bailey, David Bickerstaff, Scott Brooksbank, Cicely Giddings and Stephen Thorne share their memories of the actor and talk about the story and their characters - includes thoughts about Lionheart from the great man himself!

There is no doubt that all involved in this fine production respected and loved Nicholas, and the treatment of his character's memory really does reflect that. Lily Wighton's introduction (played beautifully by Cicely Giddings) is a further lasting tribute to both man and character.

I suppose The Magic Circle represents a new phase for the series. Linking up with The Scarifyers at this point makes it easy to join in with the adventures; whereas most audio titles have a story arc that is impossible to absorb the further in they are, now you have an opportunity to enjoy the experience with The Magic Circle or The Nazad Conspiracy (the first in the series).

If previous stories are anything like The Magic Circle, you will find them intriguing and extremely good fun, both story lines and wit at the highest level possible, the acting equal to the standards raised by all involved.

I am now a fan!

The Scarifyers can be ordered directly from Cosmic Hobo Productions on CD or as a download.

Team Rassilon #4 - Doctor Who: The God Complex

2011-09-21T10:28:00.004+01:00

Lisa Bowerman absolutely fabulous in Coronation Street as legal eagle

2011-09-20T18:50:00.005+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Coronation Street (or “Corrie” for short) regulars will most likely already know this, but if you have never watched the popular British soap opera then you will have missed a fine performance by actress Lisa Bowerman, known for her Doctor Who work...

Lisa's time travel début began in 1989, where she appeared as Karra in Survival, opposite Seventh Doctor Sylvester McCoy, and in later years as Bernice “Benny” Summerfield for the Big Finish audio range. But last week, and yesterday (Monday), she also co-starred in Corrie as solicitor Jennifer Lingwood, brought in to advise Street regular Carla Connor (portrayed by Alison King) on her business and financial affairs.

On 7th September, Lisa wrote on her Facebook wall:

If any of you can face a performance in a putty coloured suit - 2 eps on Friday 16th and 1 ep on Monday 19th.... ITV! (Coronation Street!)

For those of you who missed her appearance, see a couple of screen shots, taken from last Friday and yesterday, below:

16th Sept: secret meeting at Carla's apartment

19th Sept: Jennifer has bad news for Carla

Benny Summerfield to the rescue? Well done, Lisa - let's hope we see more of you on television in the near future!

Doctor Who: Closing Time promotional pictures and Synopsis

2011-09-20T15:48:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

In the last few days of his life, the Doctor pays a farewell visit to his old friend Craig, and encounters a mystery, as the time-travelling drama continues. People are going missing, a silver rat scuttles in the shadows of a department store, and somewhere close by the Cybermen are waiting…

Closing Time will broadcast on BBC1 at 7:10pm on Saturday 24th September 2011. James Corden and Lynda Baron co-star as Craig and Val. Written by Gareth Roberts and directed by Steve Hughes.

Source: BBC Pictures, with thanks!

Fight for the Remote - now live and available to download!

2011-09-19T19:21:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Whether you are a Doctor Who fan or lover of audio comedy, this one should be right up your... um... alley! Fight for the Remote features actors such as Ayesha Antoine as Alice, Andrew Hayden-Smith as Jon, Daniel King as Grub, and Helen Oakleigh as Keren. Ellen Thomas also stars as Mrs Hamilton.

So why the Doctor Who connection? If you haven't already guessed from the cast list, you will find Ayesha Antoine (Midnight, 2008), Andrew hayden-Smith (Rise of the Cybermen, The Age of Steel and Doomsday, 2006), Daniel King (The Unicorn and the Wasp, 2008) and Ellen Thomas (Planet of the Dead, 2009).

Episodes are approx. 30-35 mins in length.

So where do I find it? Quite simply, go on over to the official website and check it out. Episode 1: The Oral Fixation Summation is absolutely free to download - it is also available as an online stream.

Further episodes in the series will cost £1.49 from the FantomFilms Download Store (you will need to register for an account), or £1.99 from either iTunes or audible.co.uk (charge is per episode).

All episodes will be released via CD. See purchase page for more details.

(Warning some scenes contain strong language and themes of a sexual nature)

Now excuse me while I fight for the remote...

TwitterWho #24

2011-09-18T18:40:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Tweets. Twitter. Twittering tweets. Many of us simply adore sharing our thoughts about films, life and other people. And celebrities are no different. Here are just a few of the recent posts from Twitterland...

murraygold Love songs would be so different if the moon emitted a foul smelling gas every night.

jamesmoran I have watched Doctor Who, and had the trousers scared off me by @Markgatiss. Well, by his episode, he didn't come round to scare me.

philfordesq I'm now being followed by someone who wants to sell me lingerie. Have they never seen me in lingerie? It ain't a pretty sight!

BarnabyEdwards Some pesky ramblers have stopped to take photos outside my window. I'll have to pour boiling water on them, like you do to get rid of ants.

LeeBinding For your information, I always eat Smarties in the style of a Roboman.

Check out TwitterWho #23 for more fabulous Tweets...

Doctor Who and the Giant Robot to air on BBC Radio 4 Extra

2011-09-17T13:53:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Prepare yourself for a Doctor, a giant robot, and Tom Baker! BBC Radio 4 Extra is to broadcast Doctor Who and the Giant Robot, starting next week.

The Time Lord awakes from his latest regeneration to find that the Brigadier and Sarah Jane need his help. Baker (pictured) reads this thrilling eight-part Doctor Who adventure based on the television series and written by Terrance Dicks. Episode 1 airs on Monday 19th Sept at 6pm (with a repeat at midnight).

As usual, all episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer after transmission for a specific duration.

(Frequency):

DAB: 12B
Freeview: 708
Freesat: 708
Sky: 0131
Virgin Media: 910
TalkTalk TV: 633
UPC Ireland: 929

(Please note: BBC Radio4 Extra replaced BBC Radio7 on 2nd April 2011).

Alternatively, to purchase the audio drama you can visit AudioGO (where it can be downloaded for £5.49 / obtained on CD(s) for £10.60 + p&p).

Colin Baker: "Guess who is now an action figure"

2011-09-17T12:47:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Colin Baker, a legend in the world of Doctor Who, has been writing his own column for Bucks Free Press, a weekly newspaper that covers the area surrounding High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England.

His regular contribution has become so popular that a collection of his columns have been published in two books entitled "Look Who's Talking" and "Second Thoughts", printed and released by Hirst Publishing. Success aside, Colin continues to update his columns.

"Guess who is now an action figure"

How must it feel to be immortalised as an action figure? Colin says: "There is not just one small and very well made figure of yours truly, but five now. Heaven knows how many David Tennant and Matt Smith versions there are!" (Friday 16th September 2011)

Source: Bucks Free Press

Keep abreast of all the latest news

2011-09-16T19:15:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

We are just one click away...

There are so many ways in which you can keep in touch with Doctor Who developments. And Nebula One (News) would certainly like to stay in touch with you, too! So, never keep us at a distance - subscribe to one or more of our accounts and let us keep you informed. Posts are regular, our commitment 100%. We enjoy our work - we enjoy Doctor Who! And with the show at an all time high, now is the right moment to be involved...

Twitter With this account we link to news and opinions. Some of the things we tweet on @NebulaOneNews you will not see elsewhere. We currently bring news to 495+ tweeps...

Facebook Join the 286+ members who have already found our Facebook page. You also have an opportunity to comment on our articles...

RSS Feed What better way to subscribe than with this Feed. Plenty of choices to suit your personal needs...

Email Subscription And, of course, there are direct updates, those that arrive in your email inbox each time there is something new to see...

Google Friend Connect

Another alternative is to follow the website direct, via the Google Friend Connect. It will allow you to access news in Google Reader.

If you already have a Google account, or don't mind opening one, then this is a terrific way.

To subscribe via this route, open the Follow This Blog Window and select the appropriate option...

And, lastly, there is Networked Blogs - for Facebook users only! 90+ followers on there to date but we always have room for more.

And, as of this year, we are now cellphone friendly, so do check us out on your handset (compatible with most models). Nebula One (News) is growing daily. Share your passion for Doctor Who with us - and let us return the favour...

Underground Toys success at the Licensing Awards 2011

2011-09-16T16:43:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

You might know Underground Toys for its range of Doctor Who products. However, the company recently won an award for toy range of the year! The official statement announces:

Underground Toys celebrated its continuing success on Tuesday at the Licensing Awards 2011, where it was awarded the coveted ‘Best Licensed Toys or Games Range’ prize for its Star Wars Talking Plush line. The Licensing Awards are now in their 6th year, and were hosted by Greg Davies (one of the stars of The Inbetweeners) at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.

Robyn Morgan, Licensing Director commented:

We are thrilled to have won such an important industry award for our Star Wars talking plush range. We are very proud of the items and excited about the range moving forward into 2012 with Star Wars: Episode I (The Phantom Menace) being released in 3D in February. 2012 is going to be another strong year for us in the talking plush market with new licenses agreed on properties such as such as Sonic the Hedgehog , Doctor Who and Worms, joining our existing portfolio, which includes Ghostbusters and of course, Star Wars.

Managing Director, Andy Oddie added:

Winning this category is important for Underground because the retail trade have chosen our line as their favourite. It hopefully means the one or two retailers left who are still not buying the range will be in touch! We have big global plans and many new lines for 2012, all of which will be exhibited at Dallas, Hong Kong and New York Toy Fairs. In addition our UK distributor, Gear for Games, will be showing at the London Toy Fair in January.

The award-winning line from Underground Toys includes classic characters such as Yoda, Chewbacca, Darth Vader and R2-D2 sized from 4 inches & 9 inches through to the giant Chewbacca at 24 inches tall!

Source: Underground Toys

Past Times: Vengeance on Varos

2011-09-15T15:01:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Vengeance on Varos is a story that hails from Colin Baker’s first full season.

The story is infamous for both its social and political commentary, as well as a post-modern take on the medium of television itself. It draws some inspiration from the subject of ‘video-nasties’ and violence on television, a hot topic at the time with the recent emergence of the home video market.

In his third outing, the Sixth Doctor seems to be settling and moving away from the bombastic instability of his debut, though he still suffers from a decidedly uneven temperament. Apparently running out of power mid-flight, the Time Lord settles into a depressive slump and it takes some cajoling from his companion Peri, to coax him towards seeking a solution. Divining that they are in need of an essential, and extremely rare, element he resolves to sacrifice all remaining power for a hop to Varos, where the vital Zeiton 7 ore is to be found.

As the two principals cope with their transport issues for the first twenty minutes, we build up a good picture of Varos before they arrive. A former prison colony, the planet has morphed over time but maintained its social strata. So we come to a society where an officer elite governs while proletariat miners remain oppressed, barely subsisting on starvation rations. Their main interaction with society comes via a television screen which acts as an instrument of the state, through which a beleaguered Governor submits his decisions for endorsement by the people in public referenda. He is either bathed in a healing glow of their approval or weakened by the slow torture of gradual cell disintegration when they do not agree. That same television also serves as Varos’ sole entertainment medium where prisoners, both criminal and political, are tortured and executed in gruesome fashion for the entertainment of the masses.

The Doctor and Peri land amid all this, at the same time as the Galatron Mining Corporation’s representative, Sil, is driving a hard bargain over the price of Varos’ major export. With the Governor up against it, the Doctor’s outside knowledge of Zeiton’s rarity and value becomes prized information, as long as he survives the dangers of the punishment dome long enough to impart it.

Varos unfolds as part political thriller, part action run-around and throws in some black humour for good measure. The story is unique in approach, with the device of ‘Arak and Etta’ who both build the back-story and comment on events. Despite their being affected by what occurs, and voting in the referenda to validate the Governor’s decisions, they never actually interact with any of the other characters in the story and thus form a sort of Greek chorus. The couple are brought to life wonderfully by Sheila Reid and Stephen Yardley, both well known British television faces. They have an enjoyable, spiky interaction with a health dose of one-upmanship while monitoring the unfolding events.

Colin Baker’s Doctor is for me ever watchable, handling both the action scenes and the quieter moments well. His characterisation was a bold move on the part of the production and he presents as a sort of action hero, with shades of the dynamic Pertwee and the authoritative Hartnell in the mix for those who care to find it. Despite the bickering relationship, he is well paired by Nicola Bryant as Peri. Though poorly served in this somewhat masculine story, fated to lie prone and be transmogrified into a bird, the scenes when she challenges the weak-willed Governor are strong.

Martin Jarvis brings great depth to his role as the Governor in this, his third series credit having formerly guested in both The Web Planet and Invasion of the Dinosaurs. You want to like him, trapped as he is between a starving populace and the unyielding Galatron Mining Representative, but he’s apparently lacking in moral fibre. He uses the punishment dome for all its worth as a source of revenue as we see in the wonderfully post-modern cliffhanger, where he milks the Doctor’s on screen death by sensory illusion for all its worth, in order to make a better video to sell. Also he’s weak enough to allow Peri and Areta to be taken off for experimentation and fails to stand up to either Quillam or the Chief Officer. At the end of the tale he appears to be rising to the challenge, but you can’t help but wonder how long he’ll last? One hopes he’ll be somewhat emboldened now that he doesn’t fear summary execution for failure to please the people.

Sadly, there is little positive to say about Jason Connery’s performance as the rebel leader Jondar. Indeed, with someone so stunning empty of dynamism, it is no wonder that the people remain subjugated. Knowing that it was his first television work I will try to be charitable and assume he was deliberately playing it as an uninspiring revolutionary. Realistically, one can’t help but wonder if this is another example of stunt casting for his famous surname, that or his muscular physique.

Nabil Shaban’s Sil is perhaps the most visually memorable element of the story. A truly vile and unpleasant creation, he is driven by greed and entertained by pain. The monster presents a twisted take on Star Wars’ Yoda with his colour and diminutive stature, yet Yoda never employed anything approaching the hideous tongue flicking laugh. There are distorted speech patterns too, though this was sometimes misuse of language or the mixing of word order. On other occasions, some deliberately elongated pronunciation such as “Governurr” which, though referenced as a joke within the script, do make him a little difficult to understand. It was a brave casting choice to make a virtue of Shaban’s unique physicality in order to create an alien who is more than just a man in a mask and it brings a great dimension to the character. Add to that Shaban’s extraordinary performance, and it’s no wonder that Sil was promptly lined up for a repeat appearance. Sil’s henchman, the charismatic Forbes Collins deserves a mention too. As the Chief Officer he puts in a nice performance, playing the Governor and manipulating the situation to Sil’s advantage, ever smiling and presenting as a voice of reason.

In the first episode, I found it hard to keep a track of all the Varosian authority characters and their relationship to each other. In fairly rapid succession we meet the Governor, the Chief Officer, the guard who appears to work the vision mixer (Bax?), Quillam, Rondel (Jondar’s friend) and Maldak (the young guard who supervises Jondar’s execution). They came a little too thick and fast for my liking. That said, there was some clever casting employed: bald, blonde and square-jawed, dark haired, masked. If you hadn’t tracked all the names it was at least easy to visually identify them.

With the alien Sil, his lackey the Chief Officer and also Quillam, I do wonder if there were too many villains here. Sil’s motivations are wonderful as he is a true capitalist monster. He doesn’t seek power over Varos for its own sake, though it does appeal to his vanity, but rather he wants to control the Zeiton. Fundamentally, he just wants to do his job well and make pots of money for his corporation, and doesn’t care how he achieves these ends. Meanwhile the character of Quillam smacks to me of an additional body-horror scare for the younger viewers, with the mask concealing him partially. Barely present in the first episode, he gains a larger role in the second, but coming so soon after the wonderful Sharaz Jek in Androzani, it cannot help but pale into comparison despite a spirited performance by Nicolas Chagrin.

One production misfire was the use of what appears to be an electric golf cart redeployed as the ludicrously slow guard buggy. Easily outrun, it couldn’t be turned in the corridor width and needed reversing. It’s a wonder that someone didn’t just suggest that they were scrapped and have the actors simply chase each other up and down instead! Another poor choice was the realisation of the cannibal threat. Despite the two men acting their respective hearts out, they remained purely comical dressed as they were in oversized nappies. Even the Doctor seems to have a hard time taking them seriously.

This was writer Phillip Martin’s first Doctor Who script, though he had a good pedigree in television work before and after, including scripts for Z-Cars, Star Cops and Hetty Wainthropp Investigates. He went on to pen two Sil sequels, including the Mindwarp segment from The Trial of a Time Lord as well as the unmade Mission to Magnus from the original aborted Season 23, which has recently been dramatised in audio as a Lost Tale from Big Finish.

Vengeance on Varos was the 7th Doctor Who story to be released on DVD, before the range had really got properly established. Consequently, there are minimal additional features such as some behind the scenes footage and a few extended/deleted scenes. The commentary track features both Colin Baker and Nicola Bryant, as well as Nabil Shaban and is a funny and revealing listen. Varos was one of the titles considered for a ‘Revisitations’ Special Edition and, while initially decided against, was put in the lap of the fans to show their support. With a twitter hashtag (#releasevaros) monitored by publisher 2Entertain, support was indeed forthcoming and the title is promised for a future release, but still to be scheduled at the time of writing.

Violence is rife throughout this story and while that is a given within confines of this tale, the issue that dogged the show and caused uproar was the Doctor’s apparent use of it. The infamous acid bath struggle scene is actually reasonably tame in the context of the series, and I feel on reflection that it is the nature of the Doctor’s reaction to it that really ought to be called into question. The Doctor has always been one for a witty aside, but this is more of a James Bond style quip in poor taste. Baker defends this giving the justification that the Time Lord should have alien reactions to such things. He also states that he has no issue with his Doctor, as a man of action, brandishing guns, but again I feel that they are just the wrong elements of the character to be illustrating. Yes he will use a gun if he has to, but he would rather not. Personally, I like to have the Doctor rely on wits rather than weaponry and thankfully the recent production team has taken the same tack.

The story’s solution effectively involves the Doctor and friends running away into the punishment dome, and then resorting to violence by killing off Quillam and the Chief Officer to remove their grip on power. This also weakens Sil’s position before the external threat is decapitated by ‘noises off’ with a message indicating that another source of Zeiton 7 has potentially been found. In many ways it is a poor resolution, but it is evident that the story is about much more.

Interesting issues are raised on the DVD commentary. Recorded in 2000, they mention the then relatively new reality television programme Big Brother. Looking back from the perspective of a further decade on, it’s even more interesting to comment on the themes raised in Varos. While it’s true that we don’t watch torture and state legislated executions, there is a good deal of endurance based reality television where the viewer often watches participants struggle and fail, sometimes in order to gain food and luxuries. While these are currently willing participants, seeking fame or fortune, it is not so far a stretch of the imagination as it was in 1985 when this tale was broadcast. Will we ever get to the point where the trial and execution process crosses the line into entertainment for the masses? 2005’s Bad Wolf takes a look at this from another angle, where failure to answer correctly or to survive the popular vote on a game show results in death.

We see Varos’ senior political leader literally submit to the will of the people, with their judgement either rewarding or punishing him physically. Perhaps a touch of wish fulfilment there, written as it was in Thatcher’s Britain, it raises the question of voter engagement. The Governor makes his speech and suffers the vote. At no other point are the people involved in the political process, nor are their opinions sought. They vote in isolation through a remote mechanism in a system where participation is compulsory. Presumably, continued failure to engage in the process would be punishable too by becoming another Varosian video star. I suppose that’s one approach to dealing with voter apathy!

Another issue tangentially touched upon is that of viewers feedback. Etta is seen filing out her ‘viewers report’, allowing her to comment on the programming as well as her fellow viewer and husband Arak. In reality, audience appreciation is something that is taken very seriously in the television industry. Within the public service broadcasting model that the BBC operates in, it is often considered more important than viewing figures.

Vengeance on Varos raises many issues on screen and there is an engaging story with some strong performances. What really lifts this story beyond its contemporaries though is the device of the viewing pair, Arak and Etta. In the final scene, as they look at a screen of white noise and wonder what to do with their freedom, we see the true message of the story. It challenges us to consider the implications of how we are influenced by the medium of television. This is when Doctor Who is at its best, working on multiple levels to create food for thought, while at the same time telling a good story.

Team Rassilon #3 - Doctor Who: The Girl Who Waited

2011-09-13T06:04:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Welcome to “Short Review” by Team Rassilon, a group of dedicated Whovians who are prepared to share their thoughts on a particular subject with you, the reader. Please be aware of potential spoilers. Now let's see what inspiration brings...

Ian McArdell, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @IanMcArdell)

Under Steven Moffat, Doctor Who rarely provides an episode that is less than extremely good, but it requires something truly exceptional to blow me away. The Girl Who Waited was both breathtaking to look at and heartbreaking to watch. Karen Gillan’s dual role was perfectly pitched as the sparky young Amy we know and the embittered older woman who seemed like a stranger. Arthur Darvill’s Rory was exceptional too, presented with this horrific dilemma and nearly forced to make an impossible decision. It’s great to see the show tackle a big time-travel concept through a simple yet stunning script. Hugo?

Jay Kelley, United States
(Twitter: @Doctor_Hue)

Once again, Amy Pond is separated from Rory and the Doctor in a hostile environment. But this time the separation involves two different time streams. One stream with the conventional passage of time and the other, highly accelerated. Amy, of course, is stuck in the fast lane. When help finally arrives, she is a battle scarred veteran and 36 years older than before. Rory must choose between saving this older Amy or a younger version without the three decades of emotional baggage. You'll probably cry during this one. Karen and Arthur are exceptional. It's one of the better episodes.

Andy Weston, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @ColeHawlins)

It must be said that I was a little dubious about Tom MacRae’s return to the Doctor Who fold after his last effort, but how wrong I was to doubt! This was a stunning tale, for the most part a two (or should that be three considering the two Amys?) hander, acted deliriously well by Karen Gillan and Arthur Darvill. The minimalistic sets did wonders for the story, avoiding distraction from the heart of the tale, which was Amy’s through and through. I’ve never been so happy to be proved wrong, and this was a truly memorable effort that will no doubt find its way onto fan favourite lists very rapidly. This series is pushing all the right buttons. Let’s hope it can continue...

Dale Who, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @FishCustard2010)

An impressive, heart-wrenching story with more style and substance than you could find in a series of Downton Abbey; all brilliantly wrapped up in a 45 minute Doctor Who story. Amazing acting from all the leads, perfect directon, and a simple, stark set straight out of Alice in Wonderland. Memorably dark, moving, first class television. Amazing. I cried. Quite a lot, actually.

Alix Cavanagh, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlixCavanagh)

Sinister Portal-esque robots who just want to do kindnesses, a spurious concept that keeps the Doctor handily in the TARDIS and a companion in mortal danger – all so many well worn motifs, but these details are not the point of The Girl Who Waited, which gives Arthur Darvill and especially Karen Gillan a chance to flex their acting muscles.

I have a feeling that we’re meant to be noticing themes and recurrences that will point us towards the season finale, but in reality, this is Amy’s moment. Subtleties in Gillan’s movement and voice do more than the prosthetics to distinguish older from younger Amy; the relationship(s) with Rory are just beautiful, and Amy’s sacrifice is heartbreaking.

Alwyn Ash, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlwynAsh)

The consequences of time travel, a Doctor and his blue box, a young man with a torn heart. Oh, and Amy, all alone, abandoned by the Time Lord who had kept her waiting once before. The Girl Who Waited certainly intrigued, a tight script by Tom MacRae that kept the story focussed on what really mattered: two lovers, man and wife, separated, reunited and forced to face moral dilemmas. Special mention should be given to Karen Gillan and Arthur Darvill for such a wonderful performance.

Stunning to watch, though perhaps a little over-sentimental near the end, but certainly a joy nevertheless. Shakespeare in space.

Beth Evers, United States
(Twitter: @beth_evers)

I think I may be one of the few that didn’t connect with the latest Doctor Who episode, The Girl Who Waited, in the way it was intended. It was a well written episode, but I truly don’t like Amy Pond, and really would have preferred that the Doctor and Rory just leave her there! That being said, I do like Karen Gillan, and she was really superb, as were Arthur Darvill and Matt Smith. It was exciting to see the Doctor being somewhat cold and alien, rather than a bumbling fool. And Rory’s anguish over his decision almost made me care too.

Doctor Who: Destination: Nerva - cover revealed

2011-09-12T14:45:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Big Finish has announced that the cast is in the studio for new Fourth Doctor audio adventure Destination: Nerva.

As has been explained, the story is set directly after events from 1977 television serial The Talons of Weng-Chiang. In this outing the Doctor (Tom Baker) and Leela (Louise Jameson) discover an alien visitation in London – leading them "to the far future and a battle for their lives on Space Station Nerva". Raquel Cassidy (known for her role as Miranda Cleaves in Doctor Who: The Rebel Flesh/ The Almost People) guest stars as Dr Alison Foster.

The cover has been designed by Amazing15 - check out their official website.

Source: Big Finish

Colin Baker: "Why can’t the price be right first time?"

2011-09-10T17:15:00.004+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Colin Baker, a legend in the world of Doctor Who, has been writing his own column for Bucks Free Press, a weekly newspaper that covers the area surrounding High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England.

His regular contribution has become so popular that a collection of his columns have been published in two books entitled "Look Who's Talking" and "Second Thoughts", printed and released by Hirst Publishing. Success aside, Colin continues to update his columns.

"Why can’t the price be right first time?"

Hidden costs! Colin says: "Imagine going into a clothes shop, having seen an item in the window priced at £30, to find you are then charged an additional fee for the privilege of buying it..." (Thursday 8th September 2011)

Source: Bucks Free Press

Rory Williams action figure - will it ever be a possibility?

2011-09-09T18:14:00.004+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Talking to a friend recently got me thinking: will an action figure based on Doctor Who character Rory Williams ever get the green light?

Perhaps it is a cunning strategy by those in the know, or maybe the possibility has simply been overlooked - though doubtful. But where is the 5" celebration of such a loved character? (Oops, I could have worded that a little better - but you know what I mean). Let's face it, no adventure would be complete without Amy's husband! So, all in the name of fun (and perhaps a gentle nudge to the right people)...

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE A RORY WILLIAMS ACTION FIGURE?

Poll closes 31st December 2011.

David Tennant - Life and Fate, Grossman's novel comes to life in new BBC Radio 4 play

2011-09-09T14:05:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

The 1960 novel Life and Fate, written by Vasily Grossman, is to be brought to radio this month. The thirteen episode production will star actors Kenneth Branagh and David Tennant.

The play, eight hours in total, focuses on the battle of Stalingrad as it charts the fate of both a country and family torn by war. The episodes will air from 18-25th September 2011, on BBC Radio 4. In addition to listening to these online, each episode will be available for download.

See the official BBC webpage for more details and extra links.

Source: david-tennant.com

Grossman with the Red Army, Germany (1945).

If you are interested in learning about Vasily Grossman and his book, or Stalingrad, there are some fantastic articles via foreignpolicy.com (Grossman) and timesonline.co.uk (Stalingrad).

Life and Fate was deemed so controversial and dangerous in its time that the KGB confiscated and destroyed what they believed to be all copies relating to it. However, and quite rightly so, Grossman's work survived thanks to two of his friends.

Past Times Special: Serpent Crest #1 - Tsar Wars

2011-09-08T11:40:00.004+01:00

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Enjoyably riffing on both the final days of Tsarist Russia, as depicted in the film Nicholas and Alexandra, and the original Star Wars, Paul Magrs has painted in broad strokes a whole empire in space.

Tom Baker features in an enjoyable dual role, in the grand tradition of the television series he gives us both his Doctor and, in accented tones, Father Gregory (better known as Rasputin).

The tale picks up directly from the cliffhanger ending of Sepulchre, where Mrs Wibbsey answers a knock at the door and screams. Within moments, Mike Yates is knocked unconscious and Doctor and Wibbs become prisoners of a gang of Servo Robots who abduct them to the far-flung future. Here we discover an empire in crisis where the Tsar’s forces are struggling to cope with a rebellion of slaves, poised to topple the ruling ‘Robotov’ class. The Doctor is instantly mistaken for Father Gregory, and pressed into service by the Tsarina to aid her sickly child. Meanwhile, the rebel scum are at the gates of the Autumn Palace…

As well as the epic space tale, this episode serves to set up the larger Serpent Crest story arc. To that end, Magrs provided us with a short appearance of the fearsome race that is doubtless set to be the new enemy. The story resolves well but leaves us on another grand rug-pulling moment to be explored in The Broken Crown.

Michael Jayston guests as the Tsar, with Suzy Aitchison as the Tsarina. Both are superb and the play is much the richer for Jayston’s instantly familiar and resonant tones. Of course, the fan in me can’t help but instantly distrust the voice of the Valeyard! In my opinion, the standout performance however comes from Simon Shepherd as Boolin. He plays an anxious yet honourable medic who is prepared to go to extraordinary lengths to save the life of his patient. His early interactions with Susan Jameson’s Wibbsey are subtly done and tease out the backstory without ever restoring to blunt exposition. From a casting point of view, it was a clever move to have all the human rebels cast as northern, making a nice counterpoint to the received pronunciation of the Imperial Robotov retinue. I do hope we will return to this time period and catch up with these characters later on in the run.

Unlike the previous, partially narrated, stories in this range Tsar Wars is a full-scale audio dramatisation. It contains some stunning audio design giving a truly epic feel, with the wormhole travel effect being particularly vivid and immersive. My only minor quibble at the start was the robot voices. I felt they sounded a little too like the Krikkit Robots from Life, The Universe and Everything and was just aching for one of them to shout “Silly Mid-Off!” and bat a bomb into the middle of the proceedings.

All in all, this is a fantastic opener for what looks to be another glorious romp through time and space. Fronted with a glorious homage to the original Star Wars poster, the cover casts Baker as both hero and villain, with Mrs Wibbsey as Princess Leia!

You can hear a trailer for Tsar Wars here:

It can be purchased, either on CD from all the usual places, or on download from AudioGO from September 8th 2011.

Exclusive Interview: Paul Magrs

2011-09-06T18:09:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Ian McArdell

“… from the futuristic space tale to a Victorian spooky melodrama, to an Arabian Nights Tale, to an earthbound catastrophe in a small village, and then back to space adventure with a mythic twist… I’d call it Epic!”

With a penchant for both the gothic and the fantastic, writer Paul Magrs has made a big impact on the worlds of Doctor Who. He’s been responsible for five novels, numerous Big Finish plays and Companion Chronicles as well as the audio plays which brought Tom Baker back to the role of the Doctor after so many years. On the eve of his third series with Tom for AudioGo, Paul kindly took the time to answer a few of our questions.

Neb-1: Paul, with fifteen titles for AudioGo now under your belt, as well as a clutch of Big Finish plays and companion chronicles, you must be one of the most prolific Doctor Who writers in the audio medium. As a fan, do you still have to pinch yourself on occasion?

Paul Magrs: Yes, it does look like quite a lot, doesn’t it? But I’m sure I’m not the most prolific – I’m sure people like Marc Platt, Nick Briggs, and Johnny Morris have done way more than I have. How do they do it? And keep putting out such great stuff? I wish I knew. Anyway, yes, I’ve done a lot – and I’m chuffed to be able to say I wrote the first recorded audio scripts for the returning Paul McGann and Tom Baker… and that I got to unleash Katy Manning’s Iris Wildthyme on the world… and I got to flesh out the original concept for Nest Cottage and Mrs Wibbsey – as dreamed up by Tom in collaboration with AudioGo.

Neb-1: With your AudioGo series, you first took us on the trail of the Hornets in a gothic horror chase, then on to a fantastical journey after a shape-changing Demon. What can we expect from this years series ‘Serpent Crest’?

Paul: I’d say that this time it’s a chase across different types of story… from the futuristic space tale to a Victorian spooky melodrama, to an Arabian Nights Tale, to an earthbound catastrophe in a small village, and then back to space adventure with a mythic twist… I’d call it Epic!

Neb-1: At the end of ‘Sepulchre’ the Demon escaped and then Christmas Eve at Nest Cottage ended on a scream from Mrs Wibbsey. Will we pick up directly from there in ‘Tsar Wars’?

Paul: Yes! At the end of last season Mrs Wibbsey opened the door to what everyone assumed would be carol singers. But then there was this dreadful scream! Who was it outside the door? Well, we find out right at the start of ‘Tsar Wars’.

Neb-1: Mrs Wibbsey is such an unusual character, a mature woman forced by circumstance to be the Doctor’s companion. She’s been through a lot in the first two series. I don’t suppose we can expect her to have an easier time of it in ‘Serpent Crest’, can we?

Paul: Mrs Wibbsey’s journey has been from curmudgeon to heroine. She’s getting a taste for adventure and being in new times and places. In this series she discovers just how brave and resourceful she can be. She gets kidnapped again, she goes undercover – and at one point she thinks she is losing her mind – but she winds up being the heroine that we all knew she was going to be. Sue Jameson is wonderful playing Mrs Wibbsey. All of the cast now call her ‘Mrs Wibbs’, even when she isn’t acting.

Neb-1: There’s another impressive list of guest stars lined up this year, including Michael Jayston, Terrence Hardiman and Andrew Sachs to name but a few. Is there a piece of casting you are particularly pleased with? How involved are you able to get in the choices?

Paul: I can make suggestions – but it’s really down to the team of Kate Thomas and Michael Stevens. It’s always a lovely surprise, turning up on a recording day and seeing who’s coming in. Those days are absolutely magical, with lots of laughter and fun – and then the particular intensity of getting it right. Everyone clustered round the mikes and Tom being centre stage – like some rare, mythical being that everyone is coming to see…

Neb-1: You obviously have a good ear for Tom’s delivery. When writing for him do you pace the floor impersonating him, John Culshaw style?

Paul: No, I’m afraid not! But when you spend up to six months of every year writing dialogue for him – you can find yourself in real life coming out with ludicrous non-sequiturs and expostulating madly…

Neb-1: The name of the village in which Nest Cottage sits has yet to be revealed, other than it being in “deepest, darkest Sussex”. I’m assuming it’s not Pease Pottage. Given that one of this year’s titles is ‘The Hexford Invasion’, would that be its name?

Paul: The village is indeed called Hexford… and it’s a strange old place, with some dark history we get to explore this season. By the end of this set of stories, Hexford has just about become another character in itself.

Neb-1: You’re responsible for continuing the story of Mike Yates, former earthly companion to the third Doctor who has transpired to be an unexpectedly good foil for the Fourth. Are there any other old companions in your sights?

Paul: Mike Yates (and Richard Franklin) have been a delight. The character has matured and become slightly worried, but brave and always there when needed. I also think Captain Yates is rather proud of befriending this later Doctor.

Any others in my sights..? Well, I would have dearly loved to write the tale in which Sarah Jane, K9, Rani and Clyde turn up in Hexford, Mr Smith having detected the TARDIS, and they come knocking at the cottage door… and Mrs Wibbsey answers crossly and…

Who else? Lalla Ward’s Romana. When she and Tom were in the show together they were so sophisticated and bohemian – and they went about the universe like they were on a lovely, interesting tour.

Neb-1: On a related point, all of your AudioGO stories so far have featured new characters and situations for the Doctor. Does this come from a constraint placed upon you or rather from a desire to be free from the shackles of continuity?

Paul: I’d not really thought about that much! It feels like we’re doing new villains, monsters and situations because we want to. I can’t imagine what it would be like to have the Daleks suddenly appear, or the Ice Warriors or something. Maybe that would be fun, but I’ve no idea how that rights situation works. It’s probably more horrendously complicated than setting about defeating any of those nasties!

Neb-1: Your story arcs are densely plotted and interlinked; In ‘Hornets’ Nest’ with opposing time sequences, in ‘Demon Quest’ with clues laid out across a grand canvas of times and places. Do you have to physically map out the structure of a series with a flow chart or is it all in your head as you write?

Paul: My picture of it is rather like the ‘Map of all Time’ that we ‘see’ in ‘Sepulchre’. If the Map of All Time happens to look like loads of scribbled notes, post-its, lists, bullet points, emails and pages with multi-coloured ‘track-changes’ amendments…

Neb-1: Between Big Finish and AudioGo, you’ve written for most of the surviving Doctors. Is there a Doctor/Companion team you’re still itching to write for?

Paul: Well, Tom, Lalla and K9, I must say. And Katy Manning as Iris and David Benson as Panda with Tom’s Doctor. And a few almost-impossible ones I’m still thinking over…

Neb-1: You’re also responsible for the creation of the time-travelling adventuress Iris Wildthyme, who has spanned both books and audio too? Most recently, she’s starred in her own novel ‘Enter Wildthyme’. Can we expect more novels about Iris, or perhaps further anthologies from Obverse Books?

Paul: Oh yes! She’s always on the go. There’s a new anthology, ‘Wildthyme in Purple’, coming from Obverse. I’m starting to write my second full-length Iris novel, even as we speak! And, of course, Big Finish are in the process of creating a new box set of Iris audio adventures.

Neb-1: Away from the worlds of Doctor Who, you’re a successful novelist. For those who haven’t discovered them yet, tell us a little about ‘Brenda and Effie’?

Paul: Brenda and Effie live in Whitby, where they are paranormal investigators. Brenda runs a B+B and she’s over two hundred years old and hides surgical scars under thick makeup and a beehive wig. She’s the Bride of Frankenstein in retirement. Along with her snooty friend, Effie, who owns the junk shop next door, Brenda gets embroiled in all kinds of scary adventures – whether to do with vampires, zombies or ancient gods from the dawn of time reincarnated as wicker garden furniture. There are currently five novels in the series published by Headline, the first of which is ‘Never the Bride.’ They should be of great interest to anyone who loves – like I do – classic British science fiction, horror and mystery stories.

Neb-1: Thanks Paul.

Paul’s new 5-part series Doctor Who: Serpent Crest, beginning with Tsar Wars, is released on 8th September 2011 and available on download from AudioGo, as well as all the usual stores.

Check out our Past Times articles for a retrospective look at the previous two series: Hornets’ Nest and Demon Quest.

Also, visit www.PaulMagrs.com for details of his other Doctor Who work, plus Brenda and Effie, Iris Wildthyme and more.

Team Rassilon #2 - Doctor Who: Night Terrors

2011-09-05T19:36:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Welcome to “Short Review” by Team Rassilon, a group of dedicated Whovians who are prepared to share their thoughts on a particular subject with you, the reader. Please be aware of potential spoilers. Now let's see what inspiration brings...

Ian McArdell, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @IanMcArdell)

A creepy child and a demented dolls house. Leaving Sci-Fi behind, this week was pure fantasy and all the better for it with jumps and scares all the way. The excellent lift crash moment was topped only by the ‘glass eye in a drawer’ shock. From the moment the landlord was transformed you knew it would be Amy next but nevertheless, another great moment. I couldn’t help thinking Rory and Amy were a bit slow on the uptake. Rory, who has come so far, seemed back to his self-conscious beginnings and far from the recent bravery he has shown. That said, I loved his initial insistence that they were dead!

Great casting for both father and son gave us a wonderfully emotional Daniel Mays for the Dad and the superb Jamie Oram as George, who was as far from Hollywood cute as could be. A superb, dark episode, all resolved by a father’s declaration of love.

Jay Kelley, United States
(Twitter: @Doctor_Hue)

Doctor WHO is not just a kids show, it's for the entire family. Everyone benefits from watching it and in ways often unexpected. The Night Terrors episode is a case in point. The story revolves around a little boy suffering from a fear of everything. His cry for help makes it all the way to the Doctor via his psychic paper. But why can George reach the Doctor when so many others can not? Because George is an alien child. Kudos to Mark Gatiss for using sci-fi to teach us all a lesson about family and unconditional love. Like George, we all need it.

Andy Weston, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @ColeHawlins)

Mark Gatiss did what he does best – creepy but with a very human story at its heart. Daniel Mays was superb as Alex, a dad literally at his wits’ end, and equally impressive was Jamie Oram as George. The central mystery was intriguing and the incidental characters – while only having brief moments in the limelight – were used to fine effect. The sucking into the carpet of Purcell and his subsequent transformation into a doll was truly the stuff of nightmares! And I’m sure I wasn’t alone in having a lump in my throat at the climax. Splendid stuff!

Dale Who, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @FishCustard2010)

All the elements were there from classic horror, not to mention several not dissimilar Doctor Who stories, Matt Smith was on top form, Karen and Arthur were great, and there were some out of the ballpark creepy parts. It's just that for me, something didn't gel. Something was missing. That fright at the end of the music. The proper monster in the cupboard. The evil thing behind it all instead of a frightened alien child. Not a failure by any means, but not entirely successful either, in my view.

Alix Cavanagh, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlixCavanagh)

I really like Mark Gatiss and really wanted to like this episode, so approached it optimistically even though most of his previous episodes have felt like mash-ups of things that Gatiss likes; the details are always beautiful, but somehow the totals have been less than the sum of parts.

The episode starts promisingly: an OCD child living on a run-down housing estate with man-eating carpets, bin-bags and lifts – classic yeti-on-the-loo-in-Tooting-Bec territory. Nice references to The Shining, The Seven Keys to Doomsday and not liking clowns raise a smile, but after some effective tension setting, the payoff just seemed simplistic with lots of loose ends.

Daniel Mays is terrific as Alex, Emma Cunniffe is underused as Claire and Matt Smith proves yet again why his Doctor is every child’s hero and champion.

Alwyn Ash, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlwynAsh)

Paradise Towers meets Sapphire and Steel in a story soaked in spookiness and childhood nightmares. The monsters are everywhere, shadows are closing in, but nothing is as frightening as a Hornets' Nest-esque dolls house (The Dead Shoes), complete with dolls that just want to hug you - beware their touch!

Full credit must be given to both Daniel Mays and Jamie Oram as father and "son", their scenes tender, giving emotional weight to the piece. Mark Gatiss’ writing talents pay off as the story progresses, luring this viewer into a satisfactory embrace. Full of sentiment, there will always be room for this in my DVD collection...

Beth Evers, United States
(Twitter: @beth_evers)

Night Terrors appears to be a simple tale of a child’s night-time fears: scary noises, spooky shadows, all with a rational explanation….silly people, this is Doctor Who and monsters are real! Cue the creepy doll things with child-like voices, a little boy who is not all that he seems, and the Doctor saving the day.

The Doctor had some good lines here and there (using his sonic screwdriver to no avail) “I’ve got to invent a setting for wood. It’s embarrassing!” But the best thing about the episode was having The Doctor be the primary character again, after so many weeks of the Amy & River show. My overall verdict: not as scary or suspenseful as it could have been, a bit of a let-down at the end, but mostly enjoyable nonetheless.

Aidan 5 - The Web Series

2011-09-05T18:40:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

What would you do if you had been cloned, many times over, only to find that someone was murdering them? Just what is the motive, and what happens when you are the only one remaining?

Today I discovered a fantastic sci-fi web series, Aidan 5. Using film-making combined with breathtaking sketched art, this is one series that will have you hooked from the start! Created by Tim Baldwin and John Jackson, the 16-episode "living comic book" stars Bryan Michael Block as James Aidan and Maya Sayre as Morgan Riley.

More about Aidan 5

Produced locally in the heart of Columbus, Ohio and based on the award-winning 48-hr film festival short, AIDAN 5 is a no-budget, sci-fi web series made solely with an all-volunteer cast & crew under pressured time restrictions. The goal: to create an ambitious series with creativity and determination as the only resources.

Ready for the next stage? Visit the official website and enjoy the episodes that are currently available. Then, explore the site, check out their Facebook page and leave feedback!

Feel free to subscribe to their feeds and follow them on Twitter.

Now just where did my clone get to?!

“Doctor Who In Comics: 1964 – 2011” at London’s Cartoon Museum

2011-09-05T10:40:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Ian McArdell

Doctor Who has a proud history in the realm of graphical illustration. Right from the TV tie-in comics of the 60’s and 70’s, through to the present day strip in Doctor Who Magazine, the Doctor’s adventures have been captured in pen and ink. Since 1964, the show has generated a wealth of material found in Annuals and Yearbooks. Add to that illustrations and features in the Radio Times and it is easy to see how a huge back catalogue has grown up.

Sometimes stories have been well in tune with the tone of the show, other times wildly at variance. Varying in format and style too, the comic strips have brought us adventures well beyond the budget constraints placed upon a television show, wilder and bolder than the BBC could ever manage to produce. With companions too, who can forget the shape-shifting Frobisher, temporarily stuck as a Penguin, or the heroic exploits of the doomed Absalom Daak, Dalek Killer? Or how about Kroton the emotional Cyberman who travelled with the Doctor for a time?

For this exhibition, The Cartoon Museum had devoted a fair section of their ground floor space to a celebration of these wonderful stories. It is a walk back through the pages of history, showcasing the work of Dave Gibbons, John Ridgeway, Mike Collins and Martin Geraghty plus many others and beginning with an enormous, Lee Sullivan image comprising all twelve Doctors in a ‘Usual Suspects’ line up. Twelve? The question I overheard a young lad quizzing his father over, who admirably explained Peter Cushing’s Dalek movies.

Moving through we see the wonder of the early TV21 strips, which ran all the way to Tom Baker. It was fascinating to see a spread from an early Tom Baker story. Apparently towards the end of the comic, as a cost saving exercise, some Pertwee stories were reprinted with the Third Doctor crudely altered to approximate the Fourth. The result is very strange indeed.

Further on in time and pieces from John Ridgeway’s glorious ‘Voyager’ sequence. It was wonderful to be able to inspect them up so close, seeing the intricate detail that went into these spreads, some literally works of art.

Into the wilderness years of the 1990s and when the television show was off the air. The strip was one of the places that kept the show alive, both before and after the TV Movie. Thrown in for good measure is some work for Big Finish, promoting their audio stories, as well as a smattering of Alistair Pearson work.

Right up to the present day, the walls showcase spreads from both the current era of the DWM strip and the recent American IDW range. I chuckled at the notes by the character studies artist Mike Collins did for Christopher Eccleston and Billie Piper. Whereas actors ordinarily want to complain that the artist has failed to catch their likeness successfully, as Peter Davison did, Eccleston apparently complained he wasn’t drawn ugly enough! Billie Piper apparently had no such issues.

This is a superb little exhibition and I could have easily spent a couple of hours studying the Doctor Who section alone, not to mention the rest of the fabulous historical work on the walls. Well worth the £5.50 admission, “Doctor Who In Comics: 1964 – 2011” remains open until the 30th October 2011 and I would heartily recommend it. As with all such things, there is a shop too, with a small variety of Who related merchandise, mugs, badges and a stack of Panini’s graphic novels. Probably there is nothing that cannot be obtained elsewhere, but hey, it’s a little shop. The Doctor would approve!

For those interested in the history of the Doctor in comics, I can also heartily recommend tracking down the eight part documentary series ‘Stripped for Action’, which chronicles the evolution of the Doctor’s pen and ink adventures alongside its television counterpart, with contributions from most of the major players involved. They can be found on several of the BBC/2Entertain Classic DVDs, check TARDIS Wiki for details.

The Cartoon Museum
35 Little Russell St,
London
WC1A 2HH

Email: info@cartoonmuseum.org

“Doctor Who In Comics: 1964 – 2011”

Find them online at www.cartoonmuseum.org and check out the details of their upcoming special events with Dez Skinn, Dave Gibbons and others.

About Ian McArdell

Ian is a cradle Doctor Who fan, born in the gap between the end of Planet of the Spiders and the start of Robot. With two elder brothers he was exposed to the show at a young age and, upon discovering Target books about the house, was hooked. Local fandom followed, along with conventions, semi-regular attendance to monthly fan gatherings at London's 'Fitzroy Tavern' and a reasonable amount of dressing up in costume. He kept the faith in the wilderness years, with an interest in TV and special effects leading to a career, firmly behind the screen, in the unglamorous world of television transmission.

These days, as a father of three and with a budding young Who fan of his own to share it with, he's learning to appreciate the show in a whole new light. He steadfastly refuses to choose a favourite Doctor and believes there is plenty to love in all eras of the show. He is also firmly of the opinion that we never had it so good!

Steven Moffat and his team deserve respect and appreciation

2011-09-04T19:24:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

The problem with being a fan is that we care very much about our show - perhaps a little too much, at times! But there is indeed a fine line to cross when it comes to letting your thoughts be known. It is no secret that showrunner Steven Moffat has received threats and abuse via Twitter. The reason: someone doesn't like the way he has taken Doctor Who and feels the need to vent anger! But is it really necessary to direct these comments at Mr Moffat in such a public domain? No, absolutely not! This is a man who, like us, has had a lifetime passion for the Doctor and his travels, has read Target books as a child, and wants to see the best show in the Universe kept secure and available for those who are yet to discover its magic.

Indeed, there is absolutely no reason to direct anger at him in any form!

We should be grateful that Doctor Who is on television. Without the hard work of Steven Moffat, Piers Wenger, Beth Willis, the writers and other very talented people who have worked hard to bring us exciting adventures each week, where would we all be?

Steven Moffat - a lifetime fan of Doctor Who

Of course, we are talking a minority here; the majority of fans adore the show, its BBC guardians and appreciate everything that is handed to them, even if they do not always agree with the plot, casting etc.

Personally I am not perfect. Anyone familiar with my own opinion of Let's Kill Hitler will know that I disliked everything about it - my opinion and one that I share with respect, not disrespect (see Team Rassilon - Let's Kill Hitler).

But I am a fan of Doctor Who and enjoy writing about it. I admire those who have worked on the show and am grateful to the people who keep the flame burning.

Even if my vision of the Doctor's travels isn't followed - is it truly the end of the world? No. I will always be there, following Gallifrey's favourite son in all of his journeys, in whatever format is permitted to show them.

So I thank you, the majority, for sharing with me something special!

And to Mr Moffat - I salute you, sir!

Colin Baker: "Why are model numbers of electrical appliances hidden away?"

2011-09-04T11:55:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Colin Baker, a legend in the world of Doctor Who, has been writing his own column for Bucks Free Press, a weekly newspaper that covers the area surrounding High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England.

His regular contribution has become so popular that a collection of his columns have been published in two books entitled "Look Who's Talking" and "Second Thoughts", printed and released by Hirst Publishing. Success aside, Colin continues to update his columns.

"Why are model numbers of electrical appliances hidden away?"

Making life easier isn't always rocket science. Colin says: "So the information that I, the consumer, now need is nowhere to be found unless, I presume, I get my toolbox out and undo all the retaining brackets and haul the thing out to scrutinise its back, whilst straining mine..." (Thursday 1st September 2011)

Source: Bucks Free Press

The Daleks to return in a new adventure with the Fourth Doctor - Big Finish series details

2011-09-03T14:16:00.004+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

We had always dreamt of new stories featuring the Fourth Doctor. And then, in 2009, actor Tom Baker returned to the role with new enthusiasm. Written by Paul Magrs, Hornets' Nest was an instant classic adventure, an arc of fantastic storytelling.

Last year this richness returned with Demon Quest, now to be joined by Serpent Crest; the first episode, Tsar Wars, is to be released this month. However, to discover that the fabulous Mr Baker had agreed to record some audio tales with Big Finish...

Two new covers have been unveiled by BF, and they are full of awesomeness! Seriously, who could have thought that the Fourth Doctor and those dreaded Daleks would ever be re-cast together - in a new story?

A synopsis and other details are yet to be announced, but we do already know the titles for the series: Destination Nerva (January 2012), The Renaissance Man (February), The Wrath of the Iceni (March), Energy of the Daleks (April), and Trail of the White Worm (May) - the final title is as yet unconfirmed.

And the excitement doesn't end there! Actress Louise Jameson (Leela) will get to experience her first ever adventure opposite the Daleks, which never occurred during her television run. The story will also feature Dalek slaves the Robomen, played by Dan Starkey and John Dorney.

It has also been confirmed that actor Geoffrey Beevers will make a return as the Master - having resurrected the role twice for Big Finish already: Dust Breeding (2001) and Master (2003); he first appeared as the corrupt Time Lord in 1981's The Keeper of Traken.

Wish to pre-order, just pop along to Big Finish now.

This Whovian is very happy indeed!

Source: Big Finish

Alix Cavanagh

2011-09-02T18:50:00.001+01:00

Reviewer

Born and bred on the mean streets of South London, Alix’s first memory of Doctor Who is The Keeper of Traken, which left her with a lifelong distrust of statues which the Weeping Angels have done nothing to help.

As a life-long fan-girl, she is still can’t quite believe that she gets to watch new Who every Christmas Day and nobody sneers when she mentions her favourite show. Her favourite Doctor is usually the current incumbent of the TARDIS, whoever it might be.

Inspired by the good Doctor to aim for a life of adventure, Alix is an actor, writer and educator with a taste for good food and fine champagne which she enjoys with her very own faithful companion and intrepid doctor, Malcolm. Her ambitions are to act in Doctor Who, conduct the BBC National Orchestra of Wales as they play the middle eight and be just like River Song when she grows up.

Team Rassilon #1 - Doctor Who: Let's Kill Hitler

2011-09-02T14:40:00.003+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Welcome to “Short Review” by Team Rassilon, a group of dedicated Whovians who are prepared to share their thoughts on a particular subject with you, the reader. Please be aware of potential spoilers. Now let's see what inspiration brings...

Ian McArdell, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @IanMcArdell)

Revealed at frenetic speed, Adolf Hitler was fundamentally a headline grabber for the conclusion of this two-parter, which gave us the journey from ‘Melody Pond’ to ‘River Song’. With a marvellous time-travelling shape changer, containing miniature cross people, who dispense summary justice throughout time - plus the attempted murder of the Doctor, there was plenty to cover. I adored, yet failed, to spot the ‘Mels’ bluff that was hidden in plain sight. I roared with laughter at the temporal grace gag. Superb, stirring stuff and a dramatic, high concept restart to the series. This episode utterly belonged to Alex Kingston.

Jay Kelley, United States
(Twitter: @Doctor_Hue)

In episode 8 of Doctor Who, someone finally asks the Doctor to kill Hitler. That someone is “Mels” - a previously unseen companion to Amy and Rory - who makes her first appearance in the “Lets Kill Hitler” episode. Contrived, but very entertaining. Mels forces her way on to the Tardis. She is shot, revealed to be Amy and Rory’s daughter, regenerates into River Song and both kills and saves the Doctor.

But where is Hitler? Instinctively, recklessly and without equivocation, the Doctor strives to do good. He needs no rhyme or reason to help those in need. He harbors no delusions of master races or ubermensches. Such character will always force evil into hiding.

Andy Weston, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @ColeHawlins)

Hitler! Regeneration! Two Melody Ponds, two Amy Ponds and a Doctor on the verge of death! Steven Moffat throws everything at this episode, leaving the casual viewer slightly bewildered, but providing much needed answers to those long term fans. There’s a wonderful balance of humour (witness much of Rory’s dialogue and the sense of fun Mels/River brings to proceedings when not trying to kill the Doctor) and drama (the dying Doctor in the TARDIS; River explaining just what she is), all tied together in a beautifully directed and acted 50 mins. The highlight? The glorious Alex Kingston – breathtaking and bewitching.

Dale Who, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @FishCustard2010)

Let's Kill Hitler was a breakneck speed retcon of Amelia Pond's history. Done with style and panache, we saw the impossibility of Mels growing up with Amelia, getting shot by Hitler, and her regeneration into River Song. At which point she promptly killed off the Doctor, stole some clothes, turned good and... saved The Doctor - after learning to fly the TARDIS. And that's without mentioning shape shifting robots, crop circles and locking Hitler in the cupboard. And just when you thought it couldn't get cooler... The Doctor turns up in a top hat and tux. It felt epic enough to be a finale; a fun, light, all round delight to watch.

Alix Cavanagh, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlixCavanagh)

We were promised ‘Let’s Kill Hitler’, and we do indeed pay a visit to the Third Reich - vintage Moffat sleight of hand, as we’re also playing where, or rather who, is the lady.

Nina Toussaint-White works sparky sexiness with a helluva entrance as the lady in question, Arthur Darvill’s deadpan delivery continues to be a joy and Alex Kingston clearly has a ball as River Song.

The Sherlock-esque cuts are sometimes intrusive, but it’s a minor gripe. Excitingly, this episode raises as many questions as it answers, with River still managing to keep some of her secrets to herself.

And speaking of questions, what about The Silence and its question? After all, you do get quite a few questions in a wedding ceremony…

Alwyn Ash, United Kingdom
(Twitter: @AlwynAsh)

Confusion. Not the best word to describe any Doctor Who episode but there you are. Missed opportunities? Yes, very much so – a chance for a proper Second World War adventure cast aside in favour of a “Mels/River Song” story; Hitler only relevant at the start, “Let’s Kill Hitler!” and then… what? He’s in a cupboard. So, a regeneration and River Song is born. She “kills” the Doctor only to repent.

And then we’re in Fantastic Voyage territory as "Justice Vehicle 6019", a shape-shifting robot piloted by a miniaturised Humanoid crew, seeks out war criminals.

A potential classic? Doubtful.

Past Times Special: Demon Quest

2011-09-01T13:29:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Ian McArdell

“I’m an almost perpetual traveller; I wander through the vast starfields of the universe, across the bridges between dimensions. I traipse the towpaths of time. The galaxies are mine to range across forever and a day. Sometimes, though not often, I like to get away from it all. Or at least try to.

There is a house in deepest, darkest Sussex. It’s name? Nest Cottage. It has a housekeeper who tends the place when I’m travelling. Her name is Wibbsey. She can be a bit of a handful, the poor dear. Mrs Wibbsey doesn’t really belong to the twenty-first century, but her duties are very light and she’s settled well into village life.

Next Christmas, I was returning to that quiet corner of the world after a year’s absence. Snow clouds were gathering in the sky and I was quite unaware of the heavy weather Mrs Wibbsey and I would soon have to face. Knowing her as I did by then, I’d have been foolish to expect a warm welcome…”

The Doctor,
‘The Relics of Time’ by Paul Magrs

While Past Times will ordinarily tackle a story from Doctor Who’s original twenty-six year television run, we will occasionally present a side step into the world of the audio play. These tales utilise original cast members to create memorable stories set within, but not constrained by, that original television run. Hot on the heels of my recent look at Hornets’ Nest, I have just enjoyed a re-listen to the further adventures of the Fourth Doctor, again reunited with his housekeeper Mrs Wibbsey and former UNIT Captain Mike Yates in 2010’s Demon Quest series, written by Paul Magrs and published by AudioGO.

As before, this is a series of five tales bound by an overarching plot which comprises the titular quest. Seemingly emboldened by the previous run, Magrs takes us on a fantastical journey through time encompassing Roman Britain, Paris in La Belle Époque, a snow bound pass in the 1840’s and 1970’s New York before finally ending up inside a spooky house in deep space. All the stories are again presented in the hybrid style that mixes a dramatic reading with elements of a full cast drama.

1. The Relics of Time

It is the prelude to another Nest Cottage Christmas and the Doctor has returned intent on treating the TARDIS to an overhaul. Clearing out some of the cottage ‘junk’, Mrs Wibbsey takes a table at the village bring and buy. There she inadvertently makes a disastrous trade with a stranger, giving away the time machine’s vital spatial geometer in exchange for a bag of ‘anomalous artefacts’. On closer inspection, this dubious clutch items all appear to bear some visual link to the Time Lord himself.

With the TARDIS’ wings clipped, only able to travel in time and not space, the Doctor resolves to take the bait and follow up one of the clues. This sparks a perilous journey, Wibbsey in tow, back to Roman Britain to investigate the riddle of a mosaic which depicts the Time Lord’s face and a historical reference to the goddess Wibbsentia. Soon they become involved in violent tribal politics and encounter a rather unexpected wizard, as well as his pet monster…

2. The Demon of Paris

Forward in time to the late nineteenth century, Mrs Wibbsey takes up the tale as she and the Doctor travel by boat and train to Paris. Their clue is an apparent work by the infamous painter Tolouse-Lautrec which appears to bear the Doctor’s image, hat, scarf and all. When they locate the artist, amid the absinthe soaked debauchery of the Moulin Rouge, they find him apparently linked to a series of murders. As the Doctor investigates, he finds himself pressed into singing at that famous club, while the redoubtable Mrs Wibbsey appears to be cast into the dangerous role of Lautrec’s new muse…

3. A Shard of Ice

Travelling by royal appointment, storyteller Albert Tiernann spins his dark tale of an encounter on the icy wastes of the Murgin Pass. He tells of how two strange men appeared amid the ice and snow, one bearing a book of Tiernann’s own stories, as yet unwritten. He also tells of the terrible bargain he struck with an angel in order to unlock his creative talents…

4. Starfall

Pretzel seller and aspiring comic book writer Buddy Hudson gives us the skinny on the crazy events surrounding a meteorite crash in New York City. How his girl Alice became New York’s latest super-powered sensation; known to the world as ‘Miss Starfall’. Buddy also tells of the three strangers arrived in the middle of Central Park, and what happened when they were ensnared in a Demon’s trap. And the terrible price it cost…

5. Sepulchre

After the dramatic events in New York, Mike Yates takes up the tale as The Doctor travels to Sepulchre for a final showdown with the Demon. Arriving in a strange house at the edge of the universe, there are shocking revelations when the fearsome Demon’s true motives are exposed, as is a threat to the whole of Time itself!

Demon Quest is another rollercoaster run as Doctor and his friends range across time in an effort to reclaim the missing components of his TARDIS. It is a more fantastical ride than Hornets’ Nest with diversity in the presentation as Magrs is not afraid to stretch the format he’s established. To this end, two of the tales use a third party narrator, allowing us a fresh perspective on the actions of the TARDIS travellers. This is an astute move and, coupled with the principals narrating one tale a piece, makes for some good variation as we enjoy a heady mix of Wibbsey’s disapproval and Yates's measured concern contrasting with the Doctors boundless enthusiasm. The Relics of Time is a fairly slow beginning, rebuilding the setup and re-establishing Mrs Wibbsey and the Doctor’s relationship. It does this well, and though a sequel series, knowledge of the events of Hornets’ Nest is not necessary to enjoy the story. Going forward, the quest theme builds well through the stories teasing forthcoming elements and building toward a pivotal moment at the end of Starfall and leading into the finale. With its comic-book wonderful style and some superb performances, I would personally choose Starfall as my standout episode amongst the five.

The Demon itself is a worthy foe who seems to enjoy the chase as much as the kill. A shape-shifting master of disguise, he revels in setting in complex traps that have taken years to engineer and plays on the Doctor’s curiosity to lure him in. To say more would be to spoil though, as the traps are rigged with a good amount of surprise and misdirection and there is fun to be had in trying to guess before the heroes do.

The Time Lord himself is on buoyant form throughout the adventures, as Tom Baker again brings his trademark boundless energy to the role. He enjoys some great moments including a wonderful confrontation with the Ice Queen and some lovely, tricksy dialogue with Mimsy Loyne when he engages her in a subtle battle of wits. Baker shows vulnerability here too and at times makes some fabulous comic asides, almost as if he is confiding in you, the listener.

Richard Franklin returns as the reliable Mike Yates, again a great foil to the Doctor, featuring fully from A Shard of Ice onwards. Though enthusiastic, he is tempered by the awareness that he is not the man of action he once was. Sometimes unable to comprehend the complexities of their adventures, and the implications of time travel, he remains a loyal lieutenant who is ever practical and always keeps one eye on the door.

For me, as with Hornets’ Nest, it’s Mrs Wibbsey who really shines. Though again a reluctant participant, she soon discovers a spirit of adventure. Bolder here than before, she makes her own choices and stands up for herself when the occasion arises. As a disapproving abstainer, she comes across vividly in the narration of The Demon of Paris, bringing the La Belle Époque to life with an air of disdain. Remaining grounded though, she keeps the Doctor in touch with the practicalities of life, reminding him when they have not eaten for a day and coping with his uneven temperament. Susan Jameson again presents a multi-faceted character, capable of great empathy and amusingly grumbling through it all while enduring unimaginable hardship. Mrs Wibbsey is becoming more aware of the implications of time travel but her life is still tinged with grief. In moments, she forlornly contemplates her situation, wondering if the Doctor might allow her to return to her own time, even to the point of contemplating a visit to her parents as she passes through a London railway station in the 1890s. In Sepulchre, when dominated by the Demon, Wibbsey is truly broken and her utter helplessness is heartbreaking.

It is not just the writing that is more ambitious here, but the casting and the production values too. Demon Quest feels as though it has benefited from a bigger budget, with an expanded guest cast. One highlight is Samuel West as Albert Tiernann, the Germanic storyteller who has sold his soul, gladly laying to rest the ghost of his only former Who credit as the Rani’s companion Cyrian in 1993’s Dimensions in Time. Another is Finty Williams playing ‘La Charlotte’, giving a beautifully mannered performance as the flawed and vulnerable muse to Lautrec. Jan Francis chills as a dominating Ice Queen and Lorelei King oozes a sharp dry wit as the monstrous faded Hollywood starlet Mimsy Loyne, who certainly gets all the best lines. There is great humour drawn from the character of Mimsy and she’s pitched just the right side of over-the-top. Across the series as a whole, my favourite voice has to be that of Nigel Anthony. His gloriously smooth tones as the Demon act as a surreal counterpoint to the grotesque description of a monstrous winged and horned creature, making it all the more terrifying. There’s some bravery at work here too, with a clutch of strong accents in both The Demon of Paris and Starfall. Thankfully, both nationalities are well cast by producer Kate Thomas and, despite my initial fears, never trip the line into ‘Allo ‘Allo territory.

From the peasant sounds of Roman Britain, amid warring natives and a trumpeting elephant, to the heady atmosphere of the Parisian streets, there are some sumptuous and well-judged moments of sound design on display, courtesy of Neil Gardner. The dramatic icy wastes of the Murgin Pass are illustrated with howling winds that belie a creeping menace, whereas we come to the 70’s New York amid busy city sounds. Finally, Sepulchre is eerily desolate, in line with its tomb-like name. Despite the sometimes verbose narration, that is now the trademark style, the pace never drops and a 70 minute play often passes by far too quickly. Composer Simon Hunt sets the tone with evocative musical cues, whether it is melodic Parisian tunes or breezy jazz piano on the streets of New York.

It would be remiss not to mention the cover art for these episodes, the first four of which illustrate the relevant clue that inspires each adventure. Particularly impressive are Vince McIndoe’s painting, in the style of Tolouse-Lautrec, for The Demon of Paris and June Hudson’s fairy tale illustration of the Doctor facing off against the Ice Queen for A Shard of Ice.

The Demon Quest series are available on CD and MP3 download from AudioGO and I heartily recommend them. With the final beat of the series being a knock on the door and a horrified scream from Mrs Wibbsey, I am pleased to see that a further series of adventures have been announced. With the now standard autumnal release pattern, Serpent Crest will be available monthly from September 2011.

You can hear a teaser for the first instalment Tsar Wars here:

Please do look out for Nebula One’s interview with writer Paul Magrs, where he tells us a little more about the creation of these tales, and his other Doctor Who work, as well as offering a few hints about what we can look forward to in the new run.

Colin Baker: "I confess to a fondness for gadgets"

2011-08-31T00:47:00.008+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Colin Baker, a legend in the world of Doctor Who, has been writing his own column for Bucks Free Press, a weekly newspaper that covers the area surrounding High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England.

His regular contribution has become so popular that a collection of his columns have been published in two books entitled "Look Who's Talking" and "Second Thoughts", printed and released by Hirst Publishing. Success aside, Colin continues to update his columns.

"I confess to a fondness for gadgets"

We all have a passion for new technology. Colin says: "Show me the latest state of the art mobile phone with the processing power of [a] dwarf star and I covet it uncontrollably..." (Thursday 25th August 2011)

Source: Bucks Free Press

Billie Piper to star in new high-octane comedy pilot Tom and Jenny

2011-08-29T19:46:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

First time I saw the title my mind got a little carried away: Is she the cat or mouse?

But as it happens ex-Doctor Who star Billie Piper, also known for her role as escort Belle de Jour, will be having a go at humour in brand new pilot comedy Tom and Jenny, the tale of a “feuding couple who, despite splitting up, refuse to leave the house they’ve bought together”. It was first announced at the Edinburgh International Television Festival last week by BBC3 controller Zai Bennett, who has been at his post for the past five months.

It has also been revealed that Lee Hupfield has written the pilot while Ben Palmer, recently involved with The Inbetweeners Movie, is director.

Billie's co-star for Tom and Jenny is yet to be confirmed.

Source: The Stage

“The Shadow Over Innsmouth” to broadcast on BBC Radio 4 Extra

2011-08-29T18:46:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Prepare for a piece of HP Lovecraft as his 1936 novella is brought to life in a new audio series read by actor Richard Coyle.

“The Shadow Over Innsmouth” tells the first-person story of a young historian, Robert Olmstead, who, while investigating his family genealogy in New England, is intrigued to learn about a hated and mysterious fishing-town called Innsmouth. When he visits he finds the place to be run-down and near-deserted, with a cult-like religion and a strange, degenerate population. His investigation soon turns in to a race to escape the town and the the evil creatures he sees emerging from the sea.

“The Shadow Over Innsmouth” was written by HP Lovecraft in 1931 and is the only one of his works of fiction not to have initially been published as part of a periodical. It continues HPL's Cthulhu Mythos, featuring townspeople worshipping the elder sea god Dagon and mentioning the mysterious Shoggoth creature of his other works.

Richard Coyle and "co-star" read “The Shadow
Over Innsmouth”

Abridged for radio by Paul Kent with music by Jon Nicholls (accompanied by a full sound design to enhance the experience), five-part story The Shadow Over Innsmouth will air on BBC Radio 4 Extra from 3rd-7th October 2011 at 6:30pm.

Each episode is thirty minutes in length.

“The Shadow Over Innsmouth” is produced & directed by Neil Gardner for Ladbroke Productions.

Richard Coyle

Richard is one of the UK’s best-known and most celebrated young actors. He has appeared on television, most recently as Moist von Lipwig in Terry Pratchett’s “Going Postal” on Sky One, as well as for several years in the BBC sitcom “Coupling”. He has starred in films including “Franklyn”, “Human Traffic”, “The Libertine” and most recently alongside Jake Gyllenhaal in “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time” and will shortly be seen in Madonna's much-talked-about movie “W.E.”. His stage work has been critically acclaimed, including works such as “Don Carlos”, “Proof”, “After Miss Julie” and most recently in “Polar Bears”. He read “At The Mountains of Madness” by HP Lovecraft for the network in 2010.

Source: Neil Gardner, with thanks!

For more reading: The H.P. Lovecraft Archive

Arthur Darvill reads “The Tales of Max Carrados” for BBC Radio 4 Extra

2011-08-28T18:58:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Ernest Bramah's blind detective Max Carrados, first introduced to the world in 1914, will be brought to life in a new audio series read by Doctor Who actor Arthur Darvill.

Carrados featured alongside Sherlock Holmes in the "Strand" magazine in which they both had top billing. The character often boasted how being blind meant his other senses were heightened. The author Ernest Bramah excelled in his detailed writing and uncovering of clues.

The beneficiary of a large inheritance from an American relative, Carrados is foremost a gentleman who undertakes sleuthing only as an avocation. Though equipped with a keen observer in the perfect manservant Parkinson, the blind Carrados does not merely sit around deducing: he makes his own observations with ears, nose and fingertips. Carrados makes a point of noticing what others don't, in his case precisely because, as he says, "I have no blundering, self-confident eyes to be hoodwinked." Instead he uses careful deduction, his four other senses, and the well-trained eye of his manservant.

Carrados' friend Carlyle, a private investigator, serves as his Watson - he is just dense enough to require an explanation of how Carrados has solved each crime. Ellery Queen calls this first volume of his adventures, "One of the ten best volumes of detective shorts ever written!"

Author Ernest Bramah (1868-1942)

Abridged for radio by Paul Kent with music by Jon Nicholls (accompanied by a full sound design to enhance the experience), The Tales of Max Carrados will air on BBC Radio 4 Extra from 7th-11th November 2011 at 6:30am, 1:30pm and 8:30pm.

The five episodes (each thirty minutes in length) are: The Coin of Dionysius, The Knight's Cross Signal Problem, The Tragedy At Brookbend Cottage, The Last Exploit of Harry the Actor, and The Game Played In The Dark.

The Tales of Max Carrados is produced & directed by Neil Gardner for Ladbroke Productions.

About Arthur Darvill

Arthur is best-known for his on-going role as Rory Williams, one of the three leads in BBC One's “Doctor Who”. This is his first time on BBC Radio 4 Extra. He has also starred in TV series including “He Kills Coppers” and “Little Dorritt”. In theatre he is currently starring in “Doctor Faustus” at the Globe, and has been seen in plays such as “Swimming With Sharks” (alongside Matt Smith), “Marine Parade” and “Terre Haute”. He is also a musician and composer, and has composed and been Director of Music for several major plays.

Source: Neil Gardner, with thanks!

TwitterWho #23

2011-08-28T17:15:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Tweets. Twitter. Twittering tweets. Many of us simply adore sharing our thoughts about films, life and other people. And celebrities are no different. Here are just a few of the recent posts from Twitterland...

NicholasPegg Inadvertently saw Mad Max 2 last night. For a tale predicated on petrol being man's rarest commodity, they didn't half use up a lot of it.

thenicolabryant Just saw someone walking their pet rabbit, on a lead. Love it! Eccentricity rules. :))

jamesmoran Saw a guy last night with a polo shirt tucked into white chinos, turnups & no socks. Just saw another guy with same look. They're breeding.

murraygold ...we should learn from insects to CO-OPERATE and build TOGETHER and also to eat our enemies in a type of spit broth...

NicholasPegg Breaking news: President Borusa denies any knowledge of homing beacon concealed in recall device personally given to the Master. #hackgate

Check out TwitterWho #22 for more fabulous Tweets...

Matt Smith doesn't rate Karen Gillan's looks very highly?

2011-08-27T13:22:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

British newspaper The Sun has reported that Doctor Who actor Matt Smith doesn't find co-star Karen Gillan that appealing physically. Perhaps that is why he wears glasses - his eyesight isn't very good?

If true, Matt gives her 5/10 and says: "Actually seeing she can be sexy is quite weird, frankly, because I just know her as 'Stupid Face Karen'. Men love her, don't they? But she's just so ridiculous."

He would, however, give 10/10 for fashion model Daisy Lowe.

5/10? Karen Gillan is hotter than the Sun!

So what are your thoughts? Karen Vs Daisy?

Source: The Sun

Colin Baker: "CCTV proved its worth during riots"

2011-08-27T12:13:00.006+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Colin Baker, a legend in the world of Doctor Who, has been writing his own column for Bucks Free Press, a weekly newspaper that covers the area surrounding High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England.

His regular contribution has become so popular that a collection of his columns have been published in two books entitled "Look Who's Talking" and "Second Thoughts", printed and released by Hirst Publishing. Success aside, Colin continues to update his columns.

"CCTV proved its worth during riots"

How have we reached this point? Colin says: "We have created a society where the very young learn that they can pretty much do what they like..." (Friday 19th August 2011)

Source: Bucks Free Press

Doctor Who - download No Place Like Home for free from Big Finish

2011-08-25T19:18:00.002+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

We are truly spoilt! Big Finish's latest story podcast is No Place Like Home, starring Peter Davison as the Fifth Doctor and Caroline Morris as Erimem. Mark Donovan co-stars as Shayde. So what does this adventure have in store for us all...?

Whilst showing his latest companion, Erimem, around her new home, the Doctor discovers that the TARDIS seems remarkably keen to be as unhelpful as possible. Almost as if it wants rid of its occupants...

Originally free with Issue #326 of Doctor Who Magazine (5th February 2003 - released in January) this is a must-have ("OMG I cannot exist without it") for ALL Doctor Who fans! It was written by Iain McLaughlin and directed by Gary Russell.

To download the MP3 "podcast" (or "fabcast" as I like to put it - just this minute, it came to me, don't like it? Ahem...) simply visit the news page. Or, alternatively, download postcast here by right-clicking the link and selecting "Save link as..." or "Save target as..."

Do also check out Doctor Who Podcast: Officially Licenced Short Trips in Time and Space for other free audio adventures.

Doctor Who Magazine: Issue 438

2011-08-25T15:13:00.000+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Doctor Who Magazine began life in 1979 - although back then it was known as Doctor Who Weekly. Issue #1 was released in October of that year for the price of 12p!

It wasn't until 1980 that the issues began to be published monthly, hence the change in name to Doctor Who with the tagline A Marvel Monthly. The release of Issue #61, in 1982, meant that the magazine became known as Doctor Who Monthly. Doctor Who Magazine later emerged with issue #107 in December 1985.

FACT: DWM holds the Guinness World Record for "Longest Running Magazine Based on a Television Series."

The cover for DWM 438 (available Thursday 25th August, price £4.50) - a look at both Let's Kill Hitler! and the new series, win: Day of the Daleks on DVD, and more...

The current Editor of Doctor Who Magazine is Tom Spilsbury.

Source: @DWMtweets

You're A Rotten! with The Navy Lark

2011-08-22T17:49:00.004+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Long before he had appeared as that time travelling Doctor with a blue box, actor Jon Pertwee was known for his comedy. The latest volume of The Navy Lark is available on CD...

Loyal fans of this timeless comedy series will now be able to add another set to their collection. Four more original radio episodes featuring the inimitable crew of HMS Troutbridge can now be enjoyed in a digitally remastered format.

One of radio's longest running laughter-makers, The Navy Lark kept the nation on the crest of a wave from 1959 to 1977. All at sea in the Senior Service were conniving Chief Petty Officer Jon Pertwee, silly-ass Sub-Lieutenant Leslie Phillips with his cry of 'Left hand down a bit!', and the constantly bemused Stephen Murray as 'Number One'. Tenniel Evans made mischief as Leading Seaman Goldstein, and Ronnie Barker played (barely) Able Seaman Fatso Johnson and Engineer Queeg, a man permanently out of his depth.

Released 8th September 2011, you can pre-order now from amazon.co.uk.

RRP: £13.25
Pre-order price: £9.94
Format: 2 CDs

Other titles are available via audiogo.co.uk.

Wireless Theatre Company - Mary Tamm interview / The Strange Case of Springheel'd Jack

2011-08-22T14:33:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Actress Mary Tamm will always be remembered for her role as Time Lady Romana (Romanadvoratrelundar in full) in sci-fi adventure series Doctor Who. Who can forget Season 16's The Key To Time arc of stories between 1978–79 including The Ribos Operation, The Stones of Blood (sounding far more like a Hammer Horror spectacular than a science fiction tale) and The Armageddon Factor? Of course, having decided that she could no longer continue portraying the role, Mary went on to other projects including now defunct British soap opera Brookside, Paradise Heights, The Assassination Run and its sequel The Treachery Game, and many more...

The Wireless Theatre Company has uploaded an interview with the lady herself, for your immediate pleasure! You can download the MP3 interview by visiting the official TWTC webpage, signing up (for free!) and right-clicking on the link supplied by them (select "Save link as..." or "Save target as..." etc.)

Another good reason why you should visit TWTC is to hear their free production of The Strange Case of Springheel'd Jack, featuring actor Julian Glover (Doctor Who, Blake's 7).

Once again, you can download each episode to listen on your iPods, MP3 players, mobile phones and computer desktop. Follow the links below for each episode and download the file(s) from their webpage(s)...

THE STRANGE CASE OF SPRINGHEEL'D JACK

Episode 1:
The Ghost of Clapham Common

Episode 2:
The Crypt of Evil

Episode 3 is currently in production, I have been told, and there are three further parts on their way. So do keep an eye out for them!

There are plenty of free original radio plays available at The Wireless Theatre Company so do have a good ol' nose around the website and enjoy their many productions available!

Do please be aware of their terms & Conditions...

Thanks to @WirelessTheatre for being so kind as to supply the above information!

FANWNAK: Issue #2

2011-08-21T14:48:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

The new issue of FANWNAK (pronounced FAN-WA-NAKK) - a Doctor Who Fanzine is out now!

Issue 2 features a fantastic 10 page colour comic strip by Paul Hanley and Shawn Van Briesen called "FADE AWAY". It is the first time it has been printed and is a brilliant tribute to the late actor Nicholas Courtney who played Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart in Doctor Who. Further comic strip action can be found in the 4 page comedy "The Further Adventures of Mel and Glitz" which has been written by PING from an idea by Scott Burditt with additional contributions by Grant Foxon and PING who also provides more "At home with the Who's".

There is an EXCLUSIVE FANWNAK SPECIAL OFFER where you can join the newly formed D.C.A.S for a reduced cost, details of which can only be found in issue 2. Fans of Season 6 will be delighted to see the recently leaked story outlines for Part 2 of the season!

This Issue also includes a FREE Poster of the cover illustration featuring the fourth Doctor Tom Baker and the adversaries from his era!

UK shipping: £4.99 (includes p&p) - worldwide: £6.99.

For more information, and to order, visit the official FANWNAK webpage.

If you are interesting in contributing to Issue #3 then do give them a shout.

Read a review of Issue #1.

Colin Baker: "Mercy shown by acid victim is an inspiration to us all"

2011-08-21T14:42:00.001+01:00

Post Author: Alwyn Ash

Colin Baker, a legend in the world of Doctor Who, has been writing his own column for Bucks Free Press, a weekly newspaper that covers the area surrounding High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England.

His regular contribution has become so popular that a collection of his columns have been published in two books entitled "Look Who's Talking" and "Second Thoughts", printed and released by Hirst Publishing. Success aside, Colin continues to update his columns.

"Mercy shown by acid victim is an inspiration to us all"

Compassion from a victim. Colin says: "There was a heartening story from Teheran this week..." (Friday 12th August 2011)

Source: Bucks Free Press