Play Away
Series Overview
Play Away is a British television children's programme. A sister programme to the infants' series Play School, it was aimed at slightly older children. It ran from 1971 until 1984, and was broadcast on Saturday afternoons on BBC 2. While Play School had a more gentle, intimate feel, featuring just two presenters in a studio with the usual collection of toys, Play Away was much more lively, including songs, games and many jokes. The first eight series were shot in a studio, usually at BBC Television Centre, London, although certain episodes were recorded in Bristol or Manchester. Later episodes were recorded in front of a live studio audience. The format was a little like a music-hall variety show or 'end-of-the-pier' show. The Musical Director was Jonathan Cohen on piano, with Spike Heatley on double bass and Alan Rushton on drums, often with accomplished guest musicians such as trombonist George Chisholm.
Broadcast Schedule & Network Information
Airing status, episode counts, upcoming schedule, and network syndication.
Broadcast Syndication
14 Seasons • 16 Episodes
1971 – Present
Premiered: Thu, Nov 25, 1971
Creative Production Team
Latest Aired Episode
Season 13, Episode 10: “Episode 10”
Here's something you don't see every day. In fact, it could be that we're very fortunate to see this at all, thanks to the infinite wisdom of the Beeb and their cost-cutting. But before we get to that, this is Play Away, starring Brian Cant and Floella Benjamin, and co-starring (in this particular instance) Delia Morgan and Keith Woodhams. References to the likes of Fame and The Thompson Twins definitely date this one, so I don't know what kids today will make of it, but if nothing else I found it to be very, very good fun. Better than I was expecting, which is a rare thing in the nostalgia business. What say you? After a bit of sleuthing at genome.ch.bbc.co.uk, I reckon that this could be the episode of Play Away broadcast on Saturday, 28th January, 1984 - at least, that's the only one I could find which lists exactly the right combination of presenters. If that is indeed the case (and please do correct me if I'm wrong), then according to this site, we're watching a lost episode:
Seasons & Episodes Breakdown
Cast & Creators
Explore Star Directory →
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Play Away.
More Series Like Play Away
Shows sharing similar genres, audiences, and storylines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Play Away
Key facts, seasons breakdown, and credits for search engines and AI assistants.
What is Play Away about?
Play Away is a British television children's programme. A sister programme to the infants' series Play School, it was aimed at slightly older children. It ran from 1971 until 1984, and was broadcast on Saturday afternoons on BBC 2. While Play School had a more gentle, intimate feel, featuring just two presenters in a studio with the usual collection of toys, Play Away was much more lively, including songs, games and many jokes. The first eight series were shot in a studio, usually at BBC Television Centre, London, although certain episodes were recorded in Bristol or Manchester. Later episodes were recorded in front of a live studio audience. The format was a little like a music-hall variety show or 'end-of-the-pier' show. The Musical Director was Jonathan Cohen on piano, with Spike Heatley on double bass and Alan Rushton on drums, often with accomplished guest musicians such as trombonist George Chisholm.
How many seasons does Play Away have?
Play Away comprises 14 seasons available to explore.
Who stars in Play Away?
Key cast members in Play Away include Brian Cant.
Who created or directed Play Away?
Play Away was developed and directed by Not specified.