The first programme was about Mythology, such a huge subject to fit into half an hour, the second about Archaeology in Turkey, an even larger subject. After a few false starts, the first recording went without having to pause for retakes. Noontime standing in front of the Library of Celsus, however, was scorching hot. Charles’ opening debut was a response to Talat Bey’s question about Artemis of Ephesus, whose statue he described as “dripping” with elaborate jewellery and other embellishments. By the end of this session, we ourselves were “dripping” in the heat of the midday sun, unfortunately not with jewels.

We had been told to move around, but Charles’ raised arms when describing Artemis was virtually the only movement made between the two of us. When it was time to relax, we could hardly move, stiff from standing like statues for over half an hour.

After a picnic lunch of köfteli ekmek, sitting in the shade of the theatre, we were ready for the next session, feeling more like veteran TV stars. This was much more comfortable and relaxed, as the weather had cooled down somewhat and we were able to perch on stone blocks and remains of columns that were standing by the side of the street leading up to the theatre. Although immobilized by being seated, we did wave our arms about more during this session. Again, there were no pauses for retakes, apart from when a bunch of stray dogs tried to get in on the act.

In the end, although we decided that we’re probably not cut out for a career in television, it wasn’t such an ordeal and Talat Halman, of course, made the whole experience enjoyable.

                    Jean Greenhalg