Acclaimed as ‘the greatest of all American urban novels’, Theodore Dreiser’s tale of a naive small-town girl determined to make it in the big city sparked considerable controversy on its first publication in 1900. Censured at the time for its perceived immorality, it is now considered a modern classic and one of the most significant works of American naturalism.

Adapted for radio by award-winning dramatist Steve Chambers, it follows 18-year-old Carrie as she travels to Chicago to start a new life, only to find her idealistic dreams crushed by grim reality. Destiny takes over when her fresh prettiness attracts the attention of smooth-talking salesman Charlie Drouet. Carrie’s desire for the good life overcomes her misgivings about living in sin, and she allows herself to be seduced by him.

But then she meets George Hurstwood, a wealthy older man who becomes obsessed by her. Enthralled by his sophistication, she embarks on an affair with him, unaware that he is already married. The stage is set for disaster – but it is not Carrie who will be ruined...

Starring Eve Best as Carrie, with John Guerrasio as Drouet, Liam Cunningham as Hurstwood and Russell Dixon as Theodore Dreiser, this compelling drama paints a fascinating portrait of the glamour and grittiness of 1890s America, and the dark side of the American dream.

Cast and credits

Written by Theodore Dreiser

Dramatised by Steve Chambers

Directed by Polly Thomas

Dreiser – Russell Dixon

Carrie – Eve Best

Charlie Drouet/Ames/Policeman – John Guerrasio

Minnie/Julia/Mrs Vance/Mrs Oeslagge – Kate Harper

Hurstwood – Liam Cunningham

Beth/Jessica/Pearl/Maid/Lola – Alison Darling

Other parts played by members of the company

First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 6-24 Mar 2000