Nuremberg Players plan night of radio-esque entertainment
SUBMITTED PHOTO - Kathy Rhoads, Kaylee Chyko, Lisa Yurcho, John Zions, Kenny Wysoski, Michelle Wysoski, Ben Altmiller, Kris Birshell, and Mike Hoover.
NUREMBERG – The familiar glow of an “On Air” sign and the crackle of vintage-style microphones will once again light the stage as The Nuremberg Community Players present an evening of live radio drama at The Emerson Theater, located at 283 Hazle St., Nuremberg.
The production features two original plays: The Last Visit and The Great 1950s Grocery Caper. Performed in the style of classic mid-century broadcasts, the show invites audiences to experience stories the way families once did — gathered around the radio — while watching actors and Foley artists bring every moment to life in real time.
The evening begins with suspense before transitioning into high-energy comedy, offering a full range of storytelling in a single performance.
The Last Visit opens the program with a gripping, slow-building sense of unease. This suspense-driven radio play relies on carefully paced dialogue, layered performances, and atmospheric sound design to draw the audience in. Subtle elements — quiet footsteps, a distant knock, and conversations filled with tension — create an experience where what is left unsaid can be just as powerful as what is spoken.
After intermission, the mood shifts dramatically with The Great 1950s Grocery Caper, a fast-paced comedy bursting with chaos and classic radio-style humor. What begins as a simple trip to the store quickly spirals into runaway carts, flying groceries, and over-the-top family antics.
The exaggerated 1950s dynamics and rapid-fire misunderstandings keep the laughs coming from start to finish. A highlight of the production is the live Foley work performed on stage. Every sound — from sizzling bacon to crashing grocery bags — is created in full view of the audience using everyday objects.
This behind-the-scenes craftsmanship offers a rare and entertaining look at a nearly forgotten theatrical art form. The contrast between the two pieces is intentional. “We wanted to showcase the full range of what radio theater can do,” said director Shawn Anderson. “Suspense pulls the audience in and keeps them on edge, while comedy lets them release that tension and laugh together. Both rely entirely on voice, timing, and sound.”
Unlike traditional stage productions with elaborate sets and costumes, live radio theater focuses on performance and imagination. Actors perform at classic microphones with scripts in hand while sound effects are created live beside them, resulting in an intimate and engaging experience that blends nostalgia with live theatrical energy.
Performances will take place April 10 at 7 p.m., April 11 at 7 p.m., and April 12 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15. For reservations, call 1-877-718-7894 or reserve seats online at
https://nurembergcommunityplayers.seatyourself.biz/
There are no additional fees when selecting seats and booking online.
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