Radio 4 adds arts programming

Radio 4 is launching three new arts programmes and extending its regular cultural coverage.

John Wilson will host This Cultural Life, a new programme featuring in-depth interviews with arts practitioners.

Radio 4 Controller Mohit Bakaya said This Cultural Life "will do for the arts what the Life Scientific has done for science – giving us deep insights into what makes our leading creative minds tick".

A new music show, Add To Playlist, will begin in October and November, and a film show, Screenshot, will replace The Film Programme. They will broadcast alternate weeks at the 7.15pm Friday slot.

Arts and cultural magazine programme Front Row will become 15 minutes longer.

Bakaya commented:"The arts matter. At all times, but especially during periods of uncertainty and change, culture provides an important lens that helps deepen our understanding of the world around us.

"However, the way we are consuming and experiencing the arts and culture is evolving. I’d like our arts programming to be even more ambitious, and intellectually curious."