It was a time before television, CDs, DVDs, and surround sound. Commercials were live, as were most of the shows on the East Coast. Sixteen-inch transcriptions were used to record shows. It was the time of live radio, the time of The 1940's Radio Hour.
Playwright Walton Jones captures the style of the period (ironically, the date is December 21, 1942, when we were at war); director Jayscott Crosley's direction gets the feel and temperament of the characters. Broadcasts were performed in front of audiences; and a variety show included music, songs, dance, comedy, and commercials. Like live theatre, there were no edits. The large cast and a musician (14 in all) of Radio Hour give quite a show. The mix of music includes favorites of the time, as well as holiday music and patriotic songs. Pam Stompoly's (also co-producer with Gladys Rongey) and John-Bryan Davis' costumes accurately depict the era. Wiley Ellis' set includes the studio office, the broadcast studio and apron and the sound effects booth in fine detail. Sound designer Michael Shapiro and sound effects designer Bob Eisele add much to the authentic period sound. Credit the outstanding lighting to Paul Ericson and Juli Stewart (who plays Ann Collier in the production). All these fine designers combine to provide an excellent environment.
Director Jayscott Crosley is ably assisted by musical director John R. Tarbox, show music coordinator Chris Stompoly, and choreographer Jeremiah LaFleur. The production includes a bit of dance from the period, as well as a tap number. There's continuing interaction "backstage" while talent was at the "microphones" doing their numbers—a very nice touch. Another nice touch is Carlene Faucher's program design, which includes the radio show program.
The 1940's Radio Hour is an ensemble piece, with a well-paced and very realistic feel, as action often takes place at several locations at once. The only objection is that occasionally, the musical accompaniment overpowers the singers. The production treats the audience as the radio audience with the appropriate “on air” and “applause” signs. For an enjoyable evening of radio, don't miss this one.
