Author: Nina Jeffries
Last year, COVID-19 was still at an all-time high. The Lion Players theatre group at Penn State Fayette had to get creative and find new ways to perform in a socially distanced setting. Now after two virtual performances—one using Zoom and the other VR technology—the group is exploring a different route using radio as their platform!
As the most magical time of the year approaches, the Lion Players thought it appropriate to recite the tale of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.
Everyone knows this classic, and with the help of Lion Players advisor Dr. Daniel Krack, the group is able to share their own rendition of the true meaning of Christmas through a non-visual form of acting.
I interviewed Dr. Krack, and asked what we as listeners should look forward to.
Something entirely new
“This is the Lion Players’ third virtual performance,” I began. “What made you decide to do the production as a radio show, instead of on Zoom or virtual reality like we’ve seen in the past?”
“I wanted to try something different!” said Dr. Krack. “This radio show format allows the actors to be together in person, which is so necessary for ensemble work. When we are together, performers can work off each other’s energy—something that is very difficult when working in remote locations. Producing a show via Zoom or in the virtual realm presents so many technical issues, such as unreliable internet connectivity, and limitations of students’ hardware.”
“What are some of the challenges of directing a production with it being just audio?”
“One of the challenges, as is the case with all types of performance, is trying to coordinate schedules. Another challenge is in the post-production; once all of the scenes have been recorded, background music and sound effects must be added and then scenes can be stitched together into once cohesive unit.
Dr. Krack continued on the topic,
“But one of the advantages of a radio show is that the performers must discover ways to use only their voices to portray their characters. In many instances, performers portray multiple roles, so they need to find ways to make each character sound and feel unique.”
“What are your plans for the Lion Players in the spring? Is there a possibility of performing for a live audience soon?”
“Yes! We have big plans for the spring! On April 1st and 2nd of 2022, we are planning Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus’ first Renaissance Faire! The Lion Players are working with Student Affairs and other campus clubs to build this event. We are hoping to provide vendors, games, and of course, live performances.
Additionally, the Lion Players will be presenting the world premiere of the one-act play ‘Black Maria Will Wait,’ written by B.L. Radcliffe. The play is about the final hours in the life of a coal miner from Fayette County. Radcliffe utilized materials from Fayette’s Coal and Heritage Museum to help compose the play.
“Where can listeners find the show?”
“‘A Christmas Carol’ will be available for streaming on-demand all day on December 10th, 2021.”
KEep an eye out!
Mark your calendars, pause your Hallmark movies, and tune in on the Lion Players’ production of A Christmas Carol on December 10th, 2021!
You can email Dr. Krack over at dxk75@psu.edu for the streaming link.
