Rochester Voice
ROLLINSFORD — The magic of classic radio is coming to life in Rollinsford this December as Garrison Players Arts Center partners with American Playlist Theater to present the Holiday Radio Theater Extravaganza, Dec. 4–13. But this production is about more than bringing stories to the stage. It's also part of an innovative effort to explore how digital media can introduce new audiences to live theater and help community productions reach people well beyond the theater walls.
Before television, families gathered around their living room radios to enjoy captivating stories brought to life through expressive voices, music, narration, and clever live sound effects created right before the microphone. Some of entertainment's most memorable characters and adventures, including The Lone Ranger and Superman, first captured audiences' imaginations through radio.
Today, a new generation has embraced this same style of storytelling through podcasting. While the technology has changed, the magic remains the same: compelling stories brought to life through the power of the human voice, inviting listeners to close their eyes and imagine another world—or open their eyes and discover the behind-the-scenes creativity that makes it all happen.
The Holiday Radio Theater Extravaganza brings that tradition to the Garrison Players Main Stage at Garrison Players Arts Center, 449 Roberts Road, Rollinsford. Written and directed by former broadcasting professional Sean Sullivan, the production features five original holiday pieces performed in the style of an old-time radio broadcast. Actors perform multiple roles, Foley artists create sound effects live, and musicians help establish the atmosphere of each story.
The anthology includes "It's a Wonderful Station," which follows a passionate but struggling community radio DJ confronting doubts about his career and the future of local broadcasting. Humorously mirroring It's a Wonderful Life, the story combines satire about corporate media with heartfelt moments celebrating creativity, community, and the enduring value of local broadcasting.
Other pieces include "A Radio Holiday Carol" and "Yes Virginia, There Is a DJ." Together, the collection celebrates the magic of storytelling and the power of community connection, offering families, theater lovers, and audiences of all ages a unique way to kick off the holiday season.
Performance dates and tickets
The Holiday Radio Theater Extravaganza runs for six performances between December 4–13 at Garrison Players Arts Center, 449 Roberts Road, Rollinsford, New Hampshire.
Performance Schedule:
- Fridays: 7:30 p.m.
- Saturdays: 4:00 p.m.
- Sundays: 2:00 p.m.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: $22
- Seniors: $20
- Students: $18
https://www.garrisonplayers.org/holiday-radio-extravaganza
Community volunteers welcome
Want to enjoy the show for free while helping bring live theater to the community? Garrison Players Arts Center welcomes volunteers to assist as ushers, house managers, and box office staff. Training will be provided, making this a wonderful opportunity to support local theater, meet fellow community members, and experience the production from behind the scenes.
Those interested in volunteering can sign up at:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080C4CA8AD2AA5F58-56381135-voices#/
About Garrison Players Arts Center
Garrison Players Arts Center (GPAC) is a nonprofit, volunteer-based community theater organization dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the region through high-quality theatrical performances geared toward family audiences. Established in 1953, Garrison Players encourages people of all ages to enjoy and participate in the performing arts while supporting the continued vitality of its theater and the surrounding community.
For information about performances, auditions, volunteering, sponsorships, and other activities, visit:
https://www.garrisonplayers.org