R.U.R (BBC 1938, Harvey Braban, Cherry Cottrell)

Posted by By Alastair James November 15, 2016 TV UK TV

R.U.R. was the very first science fiction play to be shown on British Television (and anywhere else on TV for that matter) and detailing the adventures of a Robot.

The title stood for Rossum’s Universal Robots which was the name of a company manufacturing the Robots designed to ease the strain on humankind’s work load but the Robots end up taking over the world.

One of the first appearances of the word Robot in a science fiction vein, the word is Czech and means toil and drudgery. This production was only a brief section of the play, very few productions were broadcast in full at this time, being live and from TV’s infancy the show is no longer available for viewing of course.

production details
UK / BBC / 1×25 minute episode / Broadcast 11 February 1938 black and white

Writer: Karel Capek / Adapted by Nigel Playfair / Costume: Mary Allan / Producer: Jan Bussell

cast
HARVEY BRABAN
CHERRY COTTRELL
ANNIE ESMOND
LARRY SILVERSTONE
DEREK BOND

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Alastair James is the editor-in-chief of Memorable TV, leading the charge in covering today's must-see television. A lifelong television enthusiast, his passion began with a deep dive into the world of classic sci-fi, culminating in his role as editor of "Beyond the Static," a publication devoted to celebrating iconic sci-fi series. While his love for classic television remains, Alastair's focus at Memorable TV is firmly on the present, analyzing the latest trends in the television landscape, from gripping crime dramas to the ever-evolving strategies of Survivor. His insights have been featured in numerous publications. At Memorable TV, Alastair's goal is to provide readers with sharp commentary, engaging reviews, and in-depth analysis of the shows dominating the current conversation.