Gualala Arts Promoting public interest and participation in the arts since 1961
Gualala Arts Theater announces the production of the musical, “Radio Gals”, based on the book, music and lyrics by Mike Graver and Mark Hardwick. Six performances are set for February 17, 18, and 19, 24, 25, and 26. Friday and Saturday evening performances will begin at 7:00 p.m. Both of the Sunday performances will begin at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 advance, $5 more when purchased the day of the performance.
Brian Holderman, who has directed community theater for over 30 years in Chico, California, and who recently completed directing duties for the Sea Ranch Thespians, will be directing. A casting call was held in August 2022, and the play calls for for 6 women and one or possibly two men. Rehearsals began in October.
The play, as created by Graver and Hardwick, takes place in the 1920s. It was a time when radio ruled the airwaves and small stations thrived. Music teacher Hazel C. Hunt received a transmitter as a retirement gift and station WGAL was born in Cedar Rapids, Arkansas. A wacky quintet of singer/musicians gathered daily in her parlor to set hearts thumping and toes tapping with rib tickling songs, homey chat and plugs for a rejuvenating tonic that owes its kick to the still out back. Hazel’s habit of wave jumping to find a clear channel brings a government inspector to shut her down.
“The magic of RADIO GALS is in its loving re-creation of America’s innocent musical past. Hardwick and Craver have brilliantly recaptured the spirit of smalltown America in the ’20s with a remarkable sense of authenticity. This is a fun, moving tribute to the pure, light hearted innocence that was once America, and may still be lurking somewhere deep in our hearts.” Hoyt Hilsman, VARIETY.
PLEASE NOTE: Masks are required to be worn indoors for all ticketed events until further notice.
Tickets are available at Gualala Arts, the Dolphin Gallery and online at EventBrite.com.
