The production is 90 minutes of zany fun and classic songs from The Great American Songbook.
The Elon University Department of Performing Arts is presenting “The 1940s Radio Hour” May 2 through 6 in Roberts Studio Theatre, located in Scott Studios at Arts West.
A different time is evoked in this live radio broadcast of The Mutual Manhattan Variety Cavalcade from the Hotel Astor’s Algonquin Room on Dec. 21, 1942. Tunes such as “Black Magic,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Our Love is Here to Stay,” “Blues in the Night” and a host of others are featured.
The spirit of that bygone era when the world was at war is accurately captured as the station’s harassed producer copes with members of his team: a drunk lead singer; “Pops”, the backstage bookmaking doorman; a delivery boy who wants a chance in front of the mic; and the second banana who dreams of singing a ballad.
A shortened radio version of “A Christmas Carol” is even presented accomplishing sound effects the old-fashioned way.
The book is by Walton Jones, based on an idea by Walton Jones and Carol Lees. The music is by various composers and the production is directed by Linda Sabo, associate professor of performing arts.
On May 2, 3 and 6, the performance begins at 7:30 p.m. On May 4, performances will begin at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and there will be a 2 p.m. matinee performance on May 5.
Admission: $15 or Elon ID. Reservations are highly recommended and will be offered beginning April 25 by calling (336) 278-5650 or visiting elonperformingarts.com