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Learn how a radio show is put together by using the example of how today’s show was put together.
The writers discuss ideas at home. Topics include the order of the spots, possible talent to feature, which letters should be used, and what show to salute.
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What about casting? Should a substitute be used, or an impersonator? How about scheduling of the cast, musical arrangements, engineering of the mike levels?
A dress rehearsal determines running time of the show. Also working out lines to be cut, or re-worded.
The orchestra rehearses just hours before the show. Yet another rehearsal is done to tweak the engineering.
Letters from the Listeners. Usually fairly serious, but today some humorous ones are shared. Have I, or anyone pretending to be me ever been on the radio? What’s the meaning of a song? Who was that cello player I met 18 years ago? Can you name that tune I heard on the radio? Who is that senator who is so contentious with Eddie Cantor on the radio?
Sound Effect of the week. Learn how the simple sound affect of thunder in the distance is made. Sheet metal? Guess again. What about a sharp clap of thundr?
Salute to a program you love. The Royal Vagabonds are featured, and part of their old 15 minute show is presented. Music, jokes, light hearted sketches, black face humor, and general vaudevillian fun.
Letters from Listeners. David Gregory, iof Stage Magazine answers some serious questions including: Are radio stars exempt from the draft? What has become of a few of my favorite stars?
A story of courage of a radio singer. Carlotta had been returning from a gig, and in her tired condition managed to be thrown from her car. Months in the hospital, multiple reconstructive surgeries, and the day came to unveil her as she sings from her hospital bed. Technical glitches ruin her triumph. Is it an omen? Was she through? Struggling through physical strain, Carlotta Dale is still on the road back to health as she sings, May I Never See the Sun Go Down.
Note: There isn’t much written on the Internet about Carlotta Dale. The good neews is that she went on to regain her career, and later retired from music in the 1940’s. She later passed away on Dec 1, 1988.
