1995 Sagan om ringen (Sveriges Radio P1)

The Lord of the Rings (Radio Drama)

Release Date: 1995.06.17 – 1995.09.09
Reader: Full Cast
Language: Swedish
Adapted By: Tomas Blom
Organization: Radioteatern
Copyright: © 1995 Sveriges Radio P1
ISBN: 7393571063783
Duration: 11 hours 34 minutes
Unabridged: No
Country: Swedish
Licenced: Yes
Formats: CD, Cassette, Digital

The 1995 Swedish radio production of Sagan om ringen (The Lord of the Rings) was produced by Radioteatern for Sveriges Radio P1. It was a large undertaking and was broadcast in 13 episodes, each approximately 55–60 minutes long. Tomas Blom adapted the script and directed the production. It used the original (and controversial) translation by Åke Ohlmarks.

It featured an original musical score with music composed and performed by the Swedish folk-fusion group Enteli (featuring members like Ale Möller and Lena Willemark). Instead of a traditional orchestra, the music used Nordic folk instruments, flutes, and ethereal vocals. It gave the Shire a pastoral, Scandinavian “fäbod” feel and made the darker moments sound primal and ancient. As with the BBC 1981 Radio 4 drama, the music was so popular that a 14th “bonus” CD consisting only of the soundtrack was included in later box sets.

Released originally 1995 as a 13-CD box set (and cassettes) shortly after the broadcast. In 2001, it was re-issued as a 14-CD “Gold Edition” to coincide with the first movie, featuring the Alan Lee cover art. It is frequently rebroadcast on SR P1 during holiday seasons and is a staple in Swedish libraries. It is also available online.

Episode List: