Jackanory Story Writing Competition 1975 Kenneth Williams David Benson

Extract from BBC4 The Story of Jackanory documentary. I was asked to talk about my winning entry, chosen by Kenneth Williams, to the 1975 Jackanory Story Writing Competition. The extract features audio clips from my home-recording of the original broadcast

[@aaropajari7058]

Absolutely wonderful. Mr William's could not have known what a legend that boy would become...or how the boys own stage play would later pay such immaculately beautiful homage to him.
Superb!

[@DavidBensonActor]

I hadn't thought of it that way but yes, it is uncanny that in choosing my story, he found his future representative. Thank you!

[@aaropajari7058]

@@DavidBensonActor and what a representative! I would be fascinated to know his thoughts about the play...alas impossible. I imagine he would have a legion of emotional responses, but as you say in your play, he would likely have been shocked (but I hope happy) that afterall, he was loved so much and so deeply. I wish he could have understood what he meant to so many...and far more than just a laugh.

[@GrilloTheFlightless]

It’s such a shame the program was wiped. Do you still have the story? I’d love to hear a reading from it. Perhaps as Kenneth or perhaps with the voices you intended it to have.

[@DavidBensonActor]

Yes I do have the audio recording I made in 1975 - the tape still plays! Thanks for reminding me that it is time I put it up here on YT.

[@geraintthomas6842]

@@DavidBensonActor That would be very generous of you

[@bazsuperbi]

Hey David, Mart here.
Did you actually meat Kenneth?
From what I know about him, he was so scared, but also so lovely 😢
Anyhow, I've got his published diaries here.
Kenneth Williams - Back Drops.
I'm going to read it again now, maybe after a barclays, as he might say [being a cockney and all that]
Good day 😉