Before the lights even dimmed at the Barn Theatre, a gentle murmur rippled through the audience: “Do you listen to The Archers?” and, to younger theatregoers, “Do you know what The Archers is?” Judging by the enthusiastic applause that greeted the iconic theme tune, the answer was a resounding yes. But even for those unfamiliar with the long-running BBC Radio 4 drama, Haywire offers a thoroughly entertaining and emotionally rich evening of theatre.
Written by Archers stalwart Tim Stimpson and directed with wit and warmth by Joseph O’Malley, Haywire – A Not So Everyday Story Of How The Archers Was Born is a clever and affectionate tribute to the world’s longest-running “continuing drama” (don’t dare call it a soap opera!). The play is set in a modern-day recording studio, where a devoted fan is producing a radio play titled Inventing Ambridge, dramatising the show’s humble beginnings in 1950s Birmingham. As the actors perform, the studio scenes melt seamlessly into vivid re-enactments of the early days of The Archers, when a group of creatives gathered above a used car showroom to record what would become a national institution.
What makes Haywire so compelling is its layered storytelling. Alongside the historical narrative, we follow the lives of the actors in the radio play, whose personal dramas often mirror those of the original cast. It’s a structure that could easily become convoluted, but Stimpson’s script is so deftly constructed that it flows effortlessly, culminating in a final scene that is nothing short of theatrical magic.
The production is visually stunning. Alfie Heywood’s set design is a marvel of detail, with wood panelling and BBC insignia anchoring us in the present, while clever transformations whisk us back in time. The final scene, in particular, is a mesmerising transition. Amanda Priestley’s sound design deserves special mention, with live spot effects adding authenticity and a delightful theatricality to the radio studio scenes.
The cast is uniformly strong, with Liam Horrigan and Rosanna Miles particularly impressive in their chameleonic portrayals of multiple characters. Their vocal dexterity and comic timing are a joy to watch. Olivia Bernstone, Geebs Marie Williams, Anthony Glennon, Kieran Brown and James Mack round out a talented ensemble who bring both humour and heart to the production.
There’s plenty of laughter, especially in the second act’s delightful descent into farce, but also moments of genuine poignancy. It’s a show that honours its subject matter while remaining accessible and engaging to all.
Whether you’re an avid listener or have never tuned in, Haywire is an utterly charming and brilliantly inventive tribute to British broadcasting history that will leave you smiling, and perhaps reaching for the Radio 4 schedule.
With one West End transfer already lined up, the Barn Theatre proves once again that it is a powerhouse of regional theatre. Haywire could very well be the next to make that leap, and it would be richly deserved.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
