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Nicholas Hytner tells the inside story of 12 years at the helm of Britain's greatest theatre.

It’s a tale of lunatic failures and spectacular successes like The History Boys, War Horse and One Man, Two Guvnors. And opening the National Theatre's doors in London to a broader audience than ever before - and changing the public's perception of what theatre is for.

It’s about probing Shakespeare from every angle and reinventing the classics. About fostering new talent and directing some of the most celebrated actors of our times – from Alan Bennett and Maggie Smith to Michael Gambon and Helen Mirren.

Intimate, candid and insightful, Balancing Acts is a passionate exploration of the art and alchemy of making theatre.

In this opening episode, Nicholas Hynter describes his typical day as the theatre's Director.

Producer: Simon Richardson.

First broadcast on ´óÏó´«Ã½ Radio 4 in May 2017.