Main content

The Tattooist of Auschwitz, Billboard art and US politics, Emma Rice and Wise Children

Heather Morris on her novel The Tattooist of Auschwitz; billboard art and US politics; Emma Rice's production of Angela Carter's novel Wise Children reviewed

The Tattooist of Auschwitz: the author Heather Morris talks about her novel, based on the true story of Lale Sokolov, who tattooed numbers on prisoners’ wrists at Auschwitz/Birkenau and tattooed and fell in love with a young Jewish woman who survived and became his wife.

Billboard art and politics: in the US more than 100 artists have designed billboards to encourage political participation, to be erected in each of the 50 states ahead of the midterm congressional elections in November. Political action group For Freedoms is behind the ‘50 State Initiative’. The group’s co-founder - artist Hank Willis Thomas - and Cassils - one of the artists involved in the project - explain how they hope it will inspire people to participate in civic life and change political discourse.

Emma Rice left the role of Artistic Director at Shakespeare's Globe earlier this year amidst controversy after her use of lighting and sound technology displeased the board of directors. Her first new production since is Wise Children, an adaptation of the Angela Carter novel at the Old Vic, and her first show made by her new theatre company, also called Wise Children. Lyn Gardner reviews the show and considers what it tells us about Emma’s intentions for the future.

Presenter: John Wilson
Producer: Emma Wallace

Available now

29 minutes

The Tattooist of Auschwitz

The Tattooist of Auschwitz
Heather Morris

The book, The Tattooist of Auschwitz is available and currently being made into a TV mini series

Wise Children

Wise Children
Paul Hunter, Melissa James and Omari Douglas
Photo credit: Steve Tanner

Wise Children is at the until 10 Nov

Hank Willis Thomas

Hank Willis Thomas
New York Syracuse by
Hank Willis Thomas
Credit: Hank Willis Thomas

The  will show the work of 300 American artists on huge roadside billboards across America

Broadcast

  • Fri 19 Oct 2018 19:15

´óÏó´«Ã½ Arts Digital

The best of British culture live and on demand.

Inspire

Inspire

A season discovering where artists find inspiration and helping listeners get creative.

Podcast