We hope to gauge the level of interest in starting our own local radio theater troupe from the turnout at this intriguing event. If you have interest but can’t make this particular event, be sure to let us know.
The Icebox Radio Theater, an International Falls group entering it’s 10th year of producing new, original drama about life in the Northland, would like to tour area libraries this summer.
We propose a 30-40 minute theatrical presentation which will be funny, entertaining and inspiring. Our aim is to teach the audience about the history, and potential future, of audio-based storytelling.
Beginning with radio drama’s golden age in the 1930’s and 40’s, the light-hearted presentation will tell the story of how artists learned to create theatre with only their voices, music and a few sound effects.
Actors in period clothing will frantically work to get their show ‘On the Air’ while overcoming many of the same problems (misfiring sound effects, for example) that live broadcasters faced decades ago.
After taking the audience through a history of radio drama, and of Minnesota broadcast history, the presentation shifts to a 15-minute, Old Time Radio style serial titled “Sergeant Luxo & his fateful husky, Prince.” Adventure is the order of the day as Luxo of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police pursues the dastardly bandit Red Jones, apprehending him with the help of his faithful lead dog.
After the serial, the cast shifts gears to tell the audience a little bit about the opportunities awaiting them in the new world of internet-based audio. This will conclude with a participation segment where kids from the audience come forward and perform a short scene from the Sergeant Luxo serial.
After the show goes ‘off air’, the cast and crew will linger as long as scheduling allows to answer questions, allow kids to play with the sound effects equipment and try out the microphones.
OTHER NOTES: The Icebox Radio Theater will bring a selection of licensed merchandise including recordings of past shows for sale. The IBRT will also provide information about how to access free recording and editing software, sites for podcast hosting, and more information about producing and distributing your own stories.
