Colette: Gigi, Cheri and more

Listen for the first time to this stunning collection of five of Colette’s most celebrated works, compiled and created by BBC Radio. French author and woman of letters, Colette is best known for her 1944 novella Gigi, which became the stage musical launching the career of Audrey Hepburn. Known for her frank, direct and honest way of writing about women and female friendships, Colette’s stories champion the female perspective and all feature strong women protagonists. Considered immoral and shocking at the time, her works are now cherished as a fresh insight into the female experience of the era and she is celebrated for the sheer quality of her writing. This exclusive collection includes, , , , and and features performances from Lindsay Duncan (Sherlock, Starter for 10, Doctor Who), Paul Ritter (Friday Night Dinner), Frances Barber, Brigit Forsyth and Dame Peggy Ashcroft. Also included is a bonus edition of , hosted by Melvyn Bragg as he and guests discuss Colette, her life, her works and her significant cultural impact.
In the classic , we follow the story of a young woman in Paris, who is being groomed by her grandmother for the life of a courtesan. is a semi-autobiographical story following an enduring love affair between a courtesan and a man half her age. is heavy with erotic over tones, and this full cast dramatisation explores the life of the enchanting Claudine as she navigates her journey to womanhood. tells the story of a divorcée dancer in a Paris music hall, she is pursued by a wealthy admirer. Will she allow herself to fall in love a second time?
Finally, Dame Peggy Ashcroft narrates based on Colette’s memories of her own mother.
Text copyright © Colette 1900 (Claudine at School), 1910 (Vagabond), 1920 (Cheri), 1929 (Sido), 1944 (Gigi)

Translated from the French and adapted by Barbara Bray
Produced by Raymond Raikes
Cast: , , , , ,

Directed by Pauline Harris
Cast: , , , , ,

Adapted by Yvonne Mitchell
Produced and directed by Liane Aukin
Cast: , , , , , , , , , ,


Dramatised by Charlotte Cory
Directed by Mary Peate
Cast:

Abridged by B. J. Salmon
Read by Dame Peggy Ashcroft

Presented by Melvyn Bragg.
Text copyright © Colette 1900 (Claudine at School), 1910 (Vagabond), 1920 (Cheri), 1929 (Sido), 1944 (Gigi)
©2025 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2025 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd