Oh what could have been. This audio, half audiobook and half audioplay is performed by Ian and Susan actors Carole Ann Ford and William Russell along with John Dorney as Alexander. It was based upon a script written in 1964 that wasn’t produced for various reasons.
The TARDIS lands in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon but Susan hears music so thinks it’s heaven for some reason. The Doctor points out he doesn’t know the way. They then meet Alexander the Great (who, of course, Barbara is an expert on)and are invited along with him and won’t let them leave. However some of Alexander’s party are plotting to murder him along with his heirs. For time travellers they have the worst timing. Ian manages to argue with pretty much everyone in the story, they just love him in ancient times. First up to die is Alexander’s father Cleitus by being speared(non Ming the Merciless). After he dies Alexander points his spear at his own chest... melodramatic much? He goes from happy to angry and back again just like Homer Simpson. In Cleitus’ honour Alexander orders there to be Olympic style games, yup no way Ian will be taking part in these. Next up to die is Calanus by poison, although the Doctor almost saves him Calanus opts to end his life anyway. What is with these people? Susan is so upset at his death she cries, burying her face into Barbara’s shoulder. Barbara’s probably thinking, “Well,there goes another sweater”. When Hephaeston is killed initially blames the travellers ordering Ian to be put to death (Yay!) but then relents. The Doctor is to walk on fire and Ian is to take part in the games (shock) to become a champion. Of course the Doctor succeeds. Ian chooses to take part in wrestling... in ancient Greece. Huh huh. Of course Alexander is next to die but interestingly the Doctor attempts to save him until Barbara mentions this is the date that he is destined to die on. They then leave in the TARDIS at that point. So four deaths later, a successful trip by all.
During the story the travellers aren’t exactly secretive about travelling in time unless they’re blatantly asked then it’s a secret because that never fails. They may as well wear giant neon badges. Plus Barbara gives away a plastic bracelet during the story, can’t wait until the archaeological dig on that one.
John Dorney was actually a really good Alexander the Great in this. Also I’ve mentioned before that I quite like the purely historical stories and this one would’ve been a good one if this audio is anything to go by.
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