Tomorrow I will be traveling to the UK for second time. The main reason for this trip is the honor and privilege of watching the fabulous, haunting and openly honest movie 'Morticia' with our friend (and film creator, writer, director, and co-star) Nabil Shaban, along with the rest of the cast, on the first night of the 2010 Edinburgh People's Festival. On the way to this long overdue world premiere, I get another special treat.
A trip within a trip.
When I first listened to the Big Finish Production audio recording of Philip Martin's 'Doctor Who' story 'Mission to Magnus', I was thrilled to discover this production is the theatre-of-the-mind equivalent of the TARDIS and the WAYBAC machine all rolled into one. An effect certain for anyone who watched 'Doctor Who' during the Colin Baker/Nicola Bryant years.
For those not acquainted with 'Doctor Who' history, 'Mission to Magnus' was one of several episodes shelved when the series was on its way to an abrupt halt culminated in the unceremonious firing of Colin Baker in the mid 1980's. This episode was doubly special and significant as it was meant to be the original return of the most beloved villain/monster in 'Doctor Who' history - Sil, the galactic slug, portrayed by Nabil Shaban. When Sil was brought back in 'Trial of a Time Lord', Nabil was left with a watered down version of the character he had so brilliantly crafted. From that time to this, no one else in the 'Doctor Who' dynasty has possessed the imagination, intelligence, or cojones to bring Sil back in the newest series. Or, better still, cast the series' original #1 fan in the role of The Doctor.
Fast forward 23 years later when the folks at Big Finish Productions approach Philip Martin to turn these lost episodes he so lovingly saved into audio productions. As the included interview extras will tell you, it took a lot of hard work and courage for Martin and the original cast to recreate these roles in audio format. But it is certainly easy to hear and feel the love and belief these people have for their creations. Colin Baker's performance is a timeless gem. Cheers to Nicola Bryant for taking this chance to dress Peri in the costume she wanted to wear rather than the very uncomfortable costume she was forced to wear on camera. It is wonderful to hear that American-with-a-touch-of-British accent again. A touch that gives Peri a unique quality amongst Doctor companions. For Nabil, it was a chance to discover that it was he who brought Sil to life rather than the costume. That wonderful snake laugh, which co-star Maggie Steed can imitate quite well (I'm sure both Colin Baker and my dad are incredibly jealous of her for it), is there in all its brilliance. This time there is no mistaking the emotions Nabil infuses into each laugh. A laugh that sparks a bevy of emotions in this listener - but, I promise you, fear and loathing are not among them.
I certainly look forward to taking a this trip again at many thousand feet above the Atlantic tomorrow. A trip within a trip I hope you find the opportunity to take very soon.
Big Finish Productions: www.bigfinish.com
WAYBAC Machine: The time machine created and used by Professor Peabody, and his pet boy Sherman, to travel throughout history. Part of 'The Rocky and Bullwinkle' cartoons.
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