Radio Re-Imagined: storytelling with sound

“A Radio Christmas Carol,” a WSU Vancouver community holiday tradition, returns this Christmas Eve via radio rather than an in-person public performance.

“We want to spark listeners’ imaginations with this sound-based performance, not to mention bring a program of joy and hope,” said John Barber, faculty member in the Creative Media and Digital Culture program and creator of Radio Re-Imagined. This marks the eighth year for Re‑Imagined Radio’s performance of the popular holiday classic.

“We’re pleased to share it with everyone despite the need to stay socially distanced from one another,” said Barber.

The radio drama is based on Charles Dickens’ novella “A Christmas Carol,” first published on Dec. 19, 1843, and never out of print since. The plot is well-known: Ebenezer Scrooge, an old miser, cold of heart and spirit, is transformed by three visits from Ghosts of Christmas into a kind, generous and compassionate man. The story brings joy and festivities to the seasonal holidays.

Re‑Imagined Radio is partnering with Metropolitan Performing Arts for vocal performance and KXRW, Vancouver’s independent community radio station, for broadcasting. In addition to the story, the performance will include music and caroling.

Listen to “A Radio Christmas Carol” from 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 24 for free on KXRW (99.9 FM), KXRY (107.1/91.1 FM) or AM 1310. Online streaming is available through XRAY.FM and KXRW.FM.

Adapted from WSU Vancouver