All of these projects were a real treat, in their own way. All were very different, which in itself was a wonderful platform for Damien's vast talent and range.
The story and language of Tis Pity was a theatrical, incredible experience - a standout example of the form. Also very special because we missed his stage version but were able to apply a visual to this production - although the production did a really good job of painting an image itself.
The clever, surprising and moving themes, story and performances in The Effect make it a very special entry into Damien's radio project library. A full, thought provoking, emotive experience. Stunning and affecting.
Judas was a lovely daily treat leading up to Easter, and with it largely starring only Damien in the titular role.
Home Front was a gentle, charming and beautiful drama, Damien's arrival as Hardy Walsh gave me a feeling of pride - this may seem odd, but hearing him in this production was a really special thing. We were rather left wanting more of Hardy Walsh, but this is never a bad thing, if you think about it.
Had to vote Home Front as it was the only one that I heard.
Would have loved a definate ending for Hardy Walsh, but I can imagine one..a very happy one.
I hope that I will eventually hear all his radio roles.
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"It’s not dissatisfaction, it’s a feeling more akin to having been born in captivity..the seeping realisation that your dreams and ambitions are just too big, too rich for this domestic world”
Thanks for voting Ann!
Things were absolutely pointing towards a happy ending for Hardy and maybe it's because things were left open ended like that we can imagine anyway!
I'm hoping that 'Tis Pity and The Effect are re-released at some point, or as podcasts again - both were available to download at the time.
For me it is Judas. It made me think a lot and somehow grabbed me. Unfortunately I did not hear The Effect. I had downloaded it but somehow deleted it.
Thank you for voting Sana and for sharing your thoughts about Judas, it truly was a remarkable drama. Oh no about deleting The Effect! I am truly hoping it becomes available again some day, too good to disappear forever.
Poll results so far: We have a tie between The Effect, Judas and Home Front!
Judas got my vote!
Difficult, as I love them all, but I really enjoyed the way Judas was presented on a daily basis, I would love to see the full show played every Easter.
The Effect was original and enjoyable and was just popped to the post by Judas. I found the character quite complex, more so every time I listen. He reminds me of my uncle, who was also an unreliable charmer (it's the Irish side).
You know I was a Home Front addict, and it was lovely to have Damien in that. His character really developed and it would have been lovely to have learned more of his story. Fortunately I have an imagination so have him happily married and running the estate!
Tis Pity was an excellent drama and it was lovely to hear him play a part i missed him in on stage.
I think it's one winning and the rest in a very close second place, for me.
I still like Bottleman, too.
I've got them all recorded on my Sky Q box, my inability to move them to disc or any other recordable media is the only reason I'm still with Sky!
This is true Ellie! But, he was in consecutive episodes and we did meet a new character of Damien's, played by no other! Hardy Walsh, quality not quantity!
Having said that, I have voted for The Effect, in the end, although I am still feeling pulled in 4 directions!
The Effect was just so.. intensely incredible and indelible, and for me the performance of the year from Damien
As I still haven't listened to Home Front, it seems unfair to vote while it's still available. So, although I think I know what I would vote for atm, I need to make it my mission to listen to that first so that I can do it properly!!
Ooh, better get on that fifi - Home Front is still available in episode and omnibus form to listen to and download - but who knows how long for! A perfect treat for the Christmas break!
I have now listened to Home Front and feel I can make a fully informed decision!
And my vote goes to......The Effect! - which is where I thought it would end up all along.
'Tis Pity was a close second - it was a real treat to hear Damien playing Giovanni...I would so love to have seen him play that part on stage! But maybe my familiarity with it was what let The Effect just nudge it into second place as a radio experience. The Effect took me on a proper journey of emotions - I really didn't have any idea where it was going to end up. It was brilliant writing and Damien's performance was truly gripping!