Musician and novelist Malachy Tallack talks about his new novel That Beautiful Atlantic Waltz, and performs live from the accompanying album. To mark 20 years since Edinburgh became the world's first Unesco City of Literature, we hear about the growth of this international network which celebrates reading, writers and storytelling. Plus a visit to a new exhibition of magnificent textile art drawn from National Trust of Scotland properties, which showcases this intricate artform and represents the impact of King George III and international trade on interior fashions.And film critic Hannah McGill discusses the career of filmmaker Mike Leigh's long-time collaborator, the celebrated cinematographer Dick Pope, who died this week. Presenter: Kirsty Wark Producer: Mark Crossan

William Kentridge is one of the major figures in the contemporary art world with an award-winning body of work that includes drawings, films, theatre and opera productions. His latest creation -Self Portrait As A Coffee Pot - is a nine part televisual work of art which, filed with images, music, dancers, and actors, explores the joy and power of making art.Robert Laycock, CEO of Marlow Film Studios and Isabel Davis, Executive Director of Screen Scotland discuss the challenges of expanding the studio capacity in the UK for the British film industry.Jacob Fortune-Lloyd on playing Brian Epstein in new film, Midas Man, which looks at the life and career of the man who turned The Beatles from a scruffy band in Liverpool into international superstarsPresenter: Nick Ahad Producer: Ekene Akalawu

The acclaimed Spanish auteur Pedro Almodovor talks about this new film The Room Next Door, which won the top prize at the Venice Film Festival the Golden Lion and stars Tilda Swinton as a woman dying of cancer who enlists her friend Julianne Moore to help her end her life at a time of her choosing.The Bloomsbury Group of writers and thinkers that included the likes of Virginia Woolf, Clive Bell and John Maynard Keynes has enduring appeal, so as a new exhibition at the MK Gallery in Milton Keynes opens to explore the life and legacy of Vanessa Bell, Virginia's sister, her granddaughter the writer Virginia Nicholson and the show's curator Anthony Spira talk about what made this circle of lovers and friends so unique.Playwright Richard Bean had a smash in the West End with his smash hit farce One Man, Two Guvnors, starring James Corden. Now he talks about his new play Reykjavik which is now on at the Hampstead Theatre and explores the British fishing trawler industry, which like coal, was once a mass employer of men and had a terrible safety record. Presenter: Samira Ahmed Producer: Ruth Watts

Mel Giedroyc and Sarah Crompton join Samira to review The Franchise, the new comedy series from Armando Iannucci offering a behind the scenes look at the filming of a superhero film franchise.They also review Tim Winton’s epic new novel Juice, set in the future of a climate change ravaged Australia. And Francois Ozon's new comedy film The Crime is Mine, which sees an actress charged with murder finding the courtroom the perfect place to launch her career starring Isabelle Huppert. Presenter: Samira Ahmed Producer: Corinna Jones

Rupert Everett, a celebrated actor and author, discusses his new short story collection, sharing insights on the challenges of navigating Hollywood's complexities. Carla J. Easton, musician and co-director of a documentary on Scotland's girl bands, highlights the empowering dynamics these bands bring to an often male-dominated industry. Everlyn Nicodemus, an acclaimed artist, articulates her belief that 'art is resurrection,' reflecting on her impactful retrospective at the National Galleries of Scotland.

Jodie Whittaker, known for her role as the Doctor in Doctor Who, discusses returning to the stage in a fresh take on The Duchess of Malfi, highlighting themes of power and autonomy. Curator Simon Wright and food expert Akemi Yokoyama delve into the artistry of Japan's hyper-realistic food replicas, showcasing their cultural significance. Baroness Ludford shares insights into the challenges of booking single theatre tickets. Canadian author Anne Michaels reflects on her Booker Prize-nominated novel, Held, weaving tales of love, grief, and the supernatural across generations.

Percival Everett, a Booker-shortlisted novelist, discusses his retelling of 'Huckleberry Finn' from Jim's perspective, shedding light on overlooked narratives. Laurie Belgrave and Matt Cain reminisce about Bronski Beat's 'Age of Consent,' exploring its legacy in LGBTQ+ culture and the upcoming concert celebrating this iconic album. Jessica Andrews and Matthew Dunster delve into the artistry of horror on stage, revealing the challenges of adapting 'Saint Maud' and the evolution of audience experiences in post-pandemic theater. A rich tapestry of stories and insights awaits!

In this engaging discussion, journalist Stephen Bush reviews the layered thriller 'Disclaimer' starring Cate Blanchett, exploring its moral dilemmas and emotional complexities. Theatre critic Kate Maltby dives into Alexander Zeldin's modern retelling of 'Antigone' with 'The Other Place,' reflecting on grief and family ties. Writer Max Porter celebrates Han Kang's Nobel Prize win, delving into her poignant prose and the themes of violence and understanding in human relationships. The blend of humor and critical insight makes for a compelling cultural commentary.

Booker Prize-shortlisted author Charlotte Wood discusses her novel, 'Stone Yard Devotional', which delves into themes of grief and resilience in a religious community. Esteemed art historian Alice Mann and artist Gavin Turk share insights on the profound influence of Surrealism over the past century, bridging historical trauma with contemporary art. Playwright Tim Price reveals his creative process behind 'Odyssey '84', linking the 1984 Miners' Strike with Homer's timeless narrative, highlighting community struggle and cultural resilience in Wales.

Rick Astley, the iconic singer-songwriter behind "Never Gonna Give You Up," shares insights from his memoir, reflecting on his unexpected rise to fame. Barbara Walker, a Turner Prize-nominated artist, discusses her powerful exhibition "Being Here," capturing the Black British experience. TV critic Scott Bryan and columnist Sonia Sodha examine the 25th anniversary of "The West Wing," exploring its lasting impact on political culture and discourse. Tune in for personal stories, artistic journeys, and cultural reflections!