Big Finish Productions is set to release a new box set of Doctor Who audio dramas, bringing back beloved characters and monstrous foes from the classic era of Doctor Who. Fans of Doctor Who classic series will be thrilled to dive into these new adventures featuring the Seventh and Eighth Doctors alongside companions and adversaries both familiar and new.
The Krillitane Menace Reimagined
Writer John Dorney delves into the intriguing Krillitane, monsters first introduced in the revived series but with roots that feel distinctly classic Doctor Who. Dorney emphasizes the challenge of reinventing these shape-shifting villains, stating, “The Krillitane are a really fascinating monster…but that also means they’re really challenging to bring back, because by definition they have to be doing something new every time.” This ensures that even devoted fans of Doctor Who The Classic series will find fresh and exciting encounters with this adaptable enemy. His stories promise a “traditional Troughton base-under-siege” feel, blending classic series tropes with innovative Krillitane threats.
Sylvester McCoy, the Seventh Doctor actor, highlights the complexity of the stories, particularly “The Krillitane Feint,” noting, “The Krillitane are a nasty piece of work – you’re never quite sure what they are or what they’ve become.” This ambiguity adds a layer of classic Doctor Who mystery to the audio dramas.
Expanding the Universe: Lupari Lore and Monk Rom-Com
Tim Foley provides contrasting tales within the box set. He explores the Lupari, companions of Yaz from the TV series, in a story that takes listeners to their medieval homeland. Foley describes it as “a medieval epic, with a fun role for K9 and new lore that got the approval of Chris Chibnall.” This expansion of Lupari lore offers a rich, historical backdrop reminiscent of classic Doctor Who historical adventures.
In stark contrast, Foley also pens “a gay romcom with the Eighth Doctor” featuring the enigmatic Monks. He playfully invites listeners to “the wedding,” suggesting a light-hearted, comedic approach to these usually sinister figures, a tonal variety often found within the classic Doctor Who era.
Star-Studded Cast Reunions and New Pairings
The audio dramas boast a stellar cast, including returning classic Doctor Who actors and exciting new collaborations. Miriam Margolyes expresses her delight in working with Tom Baker, sharing a charming anecdote: “I love Tom. He is an exceptional person and a wonderful actor…He wanted me to be in Doctor Who on TV – he asked for me to be one of his sidekicks!” This highlights the enduring appeal of Doctor Who and the enthusiasm of its actors, both past and present.
Sylvester McCoy also celebrates a new working relationship with Wendy Padbury, a classic series companion, stating, “Wendy (Padbury) and I have become great friends in conventions over the years. But this is the very first time we’ve worked together. And it was just great – a lovely feeling, great chemistry.” These fresh pairings and reunions are a treat for fans of Doctor Who classic series, bringing together beloved figures in exciting new contexts.
Paul McGann hints at a romantic storyline for the Eighth Doctor, adding a unique dimension to his adventures. He describes “a romantic element in this story (Five Hundred Ways to Leave Your Lover), which also has a touch of The Truman Show,” suggesting a blend of genres and themes that exemplify the creative scope of Doctor Who the classic era and its modern audio adaptations. This new box set promises to be a must-listen for anyone who loves Doctor Who classic stories and is eager for fresh adventures with familiar faces.
