...AND THE BEST RADIO

SUNDAY RICKY WILSON’S ROCK AND ROLL CLASSICS RADIO 2, 9PM

As a fan of 1950s and 1960s rock and roll, Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson has a dream gig here. In this first of three shows he focuses on three classics from Chuck Berry and, later on, Little Richard (right), Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis and Duane Eddy.

MONDAY THE ADVENTURES OF MISS BARBARA PYM RADIO 4, 9.45AM, MON-FRI

Barbara Pym was a kind of modern-day Jane Austen, with gentle social comedies such as Excellent Women in the 1950s. Her low-key style fell out of favour, but her career was boosted by poet Philip Larkin in 1977 and she was nominated for the Booker Prize. Hattie Morahan reads from this biography by Paula Byrne.

FRESH AIR FIEND RADIO 4 EXTRA, 2PM, MON-FRI

The great travel writer and novelist Paul Theroux (dad of Louis) turned 80 this week. Stuart Milligan reads from his best-selling collection of essays, 2000’s Fresh Air Fiend.

TUESDAY BRIDGET CHRISTIE: MORTAL RADIO 4, 6.30PM

First of four shows in which the comedian tackles big issues: birth, life, death and the afterlife. Recorded at home, these weighty matters are interrupted by more mundane demands: cats, children, plumbers, etc.

THURSDAY PETER BROOK RADIO 4, 11.30AM

Brook is regarded by many as the greatest living theatre and opera director, with such productions as the groundbreaking A Midsummer Night’s Dream in 1970. Now 96, he talks about his life and work to another theatrical titan, Glenda Jackson.

JO WHILEY RADIO 2, 7PM

The Modfather himself, Paul Weller, talks to Whiley about his 16th solo album, Fat Pop (Volume 1), which grew out of lockdown and having his tour cancelled. He originally recorded the songs on his own, then got fellow band members involved as restrictions were lifted. Released on May 14, it promises a diverse selection of songs and styles.

FRIDAY SOUNDS OF THE 80S WITH GARY DAVIES: REMEMBERING PRINCE RADIO 2, 8PM

It was five years ago next week that Prince died – not long after David Bowie. From an eclectic career, Gary Davies focuses on the singer’s most acclaimed work: the albums – 1999, Purple Rain and Sign O’ The Times – and singles Little Red Corvette and When Doves Cry.