BBC radio has a unique heritage when it comes to Shakespeare. Since 1923 when the newly formed company broadcast its first full-length play. generations of actors and producers have honed and perfected the craft of making Shakespeare to be heard.

This radio version of Coriolanus captures the dramatic battles and speeches as the valiant but elitist soldier Coriolanus fights to win glory for Rome and keep power away from the city's masses. Susannah York plays his strong-willed mother, whose warrior feelings have found fruition in the mighty Coriolanus and who, in the end is the only one who can save Rome from her son's vengeance.

The play is introduced by Richard Eyre, former Director of the Royal National Theatre.

Revitalised, original and comprehensive, this is Shakespeare for the new millennium.