South Bank Show to include Nicholas Hytner and UK Grime scene
The South Bank Show is to profile the boss of the National Theatre, Nicholas Hytner, as well as the UK grime music scene upon the programme’s return to television on Sky’s Arts channel.
To the shock of many, including Melvyn Bragg, the show’s long-running host, the arts series was axed in 2009 by its original broadcaster ITV. Prince Charles joined the chorus of discontent when he branded the end of the show a “sad loss”.
Much to the excitement of viewers, Bragg is to return to host Sky Arts’ new series. He commented that it is great for him and the show to both be back in business. The first episode is to be broadcast on 27 May and will feature the first ever South Bank Show profile of Hytner – the boss of the National Theatre since 2003.
When he was a director, Hytner worked on History Boys by Alan Bennett as well as an adaptation of the Phillip Pullman trilogy – His Dark Materials. Two years ago, the leading figure was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for services to drama. In forthcoming episodes, violinist Nicola Benedetti and novelist Pat Barker are also to be profiled.
Dizzee Rascal, previously a Mercury prize-winner, and Tinchy Stryder are just some of the artists that have lent their thoughts to the already-filmed special episode that explores the origins of the UK’s grime music scene, as well as how UK hip-hop has impacted on east London.