The Charles Dickens Show

Created for BBC Learning, and broadcast on BBC2, here is a cluster of short clips animated in cut-out and featuring re-created period artwork.

'The Charles Dickens Show' is a spoof daytime show in which the celebrated author interviews A-list guests like reformers Lord Shaftsbury and Dr Thomas Barnardo, introduces a gritty video diary made by a youngster whose home is the workhouse, and vents his spleen on the issue of child labour. Meanwhile, in the kitchen Mrs Beeton is on hand to rustle up the finest Victorian cuisine, and even Her Majesty Queen Victoria and her Consort Prince Albert take their places on Charles' sofa of historical chat to discuss Christmas. Live from the nineteenth century and packed with insight into Victorian life that is either hilarious or poignant, The Charles Dickens Show will leave young viewers speechless. Apart from the words, "I want some more."

Our animation is sprinkled throughout the four shows, so we present here a brief montage.