Episode 3

Synopsis

Bill Kenwright presents the third and final part of Colour My World: The Tony Hatch Story.

In 1964 Tony was commissioned to write his first television theme when the goings-on at the Crossroads motel became a daily feature in the lives of many people. He went on to become the composer in demand for TV, writing the themes for Sportsnight, Man Alive, Emmerdale and, of course, Neighbours, among many others. He also earned himself a fearsome reputation as "The Hatchet Man" on the talent show New Faces and he and Jackie moved into musical theatre, providing the music and lyrics for The Card.

In tonight's programme we hear from TV producer Reg Watson who, back in 1964, commissioned Tony to write the music for Crossroads. 20 years later he heard Tony's composition for Neighbours and knew, as soon as he heard it, that the song was absolutely perfect for the show. And Barry Crocker, who provided the vocals on the original version, talks about the day that he recorded it with Tony.

Theatre impresario, Sir Cameron Mackintosh, talks about his work with Tony on stage musicals,The Card and Rock Nativity and we come right up to date with American producer, Victoria Laing, who explains why she included nine of Tony's songs in her current stage show, Shout - The Mod Musical.

Broadcast

1. Fri 10 Jul 2009
   19:00
   BBC Radio 2