Game On
In a season of programmes celebrating the act of play, BBC Four uncovered the hidden history of an activity that gives us a unique perspective on our past, as well as an exciting vision for our future.
Programmes in the season
Dusty Bluebells: A nostalgic look back at games and songs from the streets of Belfast. This award-winning schools programme was made in 1971 by David Hammond and featured the P7 class from St Mary's Primary School, Divis Street.
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Games Britannia: Historian and broadcaster Benjamin Woolley explored the roots of what is now a multi-billion pound global industry and a peculiarly British obsession.
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Hop, Skip and Jump: The Story of Children's Play: Stepped into a secret world of imagination and adventure—the story of children's outdoor play in 20th Century Britain. From Ring-a-Ring O' Roses to rap dancing, the programmes explored Britain's favourite games across a century of childhood.
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James May's Top Toys: A celebration of the toys which have survived across the decades, presented by a man who still plays with them.
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Morning In The Streets: Denis Mitchell's 1959 documentary was full of evocative images of a Liverpool still recovering from the post-war gloom.
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Timeshift – How To Win At Chess: In a film celebrating the colourful and diverse world of chess, British Grandmasters Dan King and Raymond Keene explained how to outwit opponents, as well as revealing key moves and techniques.
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World of a Child: Kamal Hussein: Documentary about an immigrant child at play in Cardiff's Tiger Bay in the 1960s, seen from his point of view.
