Hollywood, a billion dollar or more industry that satisfies everyone's need for theatrical entertainment. Audio theater, as I have written about before, is a new form of theater based entirely of sound. The orriginal intention behind audio theater was to serve as a tribute to old time radio shows back in the 40's and 50's. I have been listening to audio theater on www.darkerprojects.com, where you can find a variety of sci-fi related offerings and some orriginal works. They also include recorded fan fiction on some of the most popular of series such as Star Treck and Doctor Who.
The orriginal idea for the web site took blind and visually impaired individuals in to consideration, and the site is fully accessible. However, the admin of the site has stated that they intend these productions to entertain everyone, even sighted people also. I listen to there productions online and you can also download them as well. I can surely tell you that I appreciate the time and effort that is placed in to these works, and I will continue to test out the various offerings for audio theater in other genres. With life essentially dictating that tv must contain repeats for most of the year in most cases, why not check out something different.
The minds that come up with audio theater like this should really be praised for what they have been accomplishing. Since even movies and regualar tv need good quality audio and music, I can imagine any number of production team members working on audio theater to be offered positions with major companies, if only mainstream media was aware of them. Thankfully Darker Projects is completely free, although donate options do exist if you wish to support the site. Most of the outlets for audio theater are actually run and maintained by people volunteering there time free of charge, and from the feedback I have come across through my inquirys, everyone agrees that these talented folks, especially the ones at Darker Projects, would be able to command a high salary somewhere should they wish. I am amazed at how technology is making media more accessible in every sence of the word, and I will continue to investigate greater forms of theater and audio.
Good radio programs can become just as addicting as a good tv show. Some of the old radio shows had whole families sitting around the radio waiting for their favorite program. With todays technology the sound effects should also be much better helping the listner visulize the content.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy your description of the past. Radio used to be the event that everyone got together as a family, as a main event for the evening. I can only imagine listening to Gun Smoke around a fireplace. I should accomplish that someday, thank you for the idea.
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