Main content
This programme will be available shortly after broadcast

5. A Mysterious Visitor

The arrival of the castle’s owner charms everyone but Scrap. Then another visitor threatens disharmony. Stars Pippa Nixon.

The arrival of Mr Briggs, the owner of the castle, charms everyone but Scrap. Then another visitor threatens to bring disharmony too. Can the enchantment of San Salvatore win through?

An advertisement in The Times, addressed to 'Those who Appreciate Wisteria and Sunshine' is the impetus for a revelatory month for four very different women. High above the bay on the Italian Riviera stands San Salvatore, a mediaeval castle. Beckoned to this haven are Lotty, Rose, Mrs Fisher and Lady Caroline Dester, each craving escape. Lulled by the Mediterranean spirit, they gradually shed their skins and discover a harmony each of them has longed for.

Elizabeth von Arnim’s novel is dramatised by Vivienne Allen.

Lotty Wilkins …. Pippa Nixon
Rose Arbuthnot …. Lyndsey Marshall
Lady Caroline ‘Scrap’…. Rhiannon Neads
Mrs Fisher …. Joanna Monro
Mellersh …. Stephen Critchley
Frederick …. Chris Pavlo
Briggs … Neet Mohan
Francesca .... Jessica Turner
Narrator …. Jenny Funnell

Director: Tracey Neale

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2015.

15 minutes

On radio

Next Friday08:45

Credits

RoleContributor
NarratorJenny Funnell
LottyPippa Nixon
RoseLyndsey Marshal
Mrs FisherJoanna Monro
Caroline (Scrap)Rhiannon Neads
BriggsNeet Mohan
DirectorTracey Neale
ProducerTracey Neale
AuthorElizabeth von Arnim
AdaptorVivienne Allen

Broadcasts

  • Fri 1 May 201510:41
  • Fri 1 May 201519:45
  • Fri 4 May 201814:30
  • Sat 5 May 201802:30
  • Next Friday08:45
  • Next Friday13:45
  • Next Friday19:45
  • Next Saturday03:45