A young city at a historical crossroads, a brilliant detective in his first American case, thrilling suspense, and delightful comedy.

Kansas City Actors Theatre is excited to announce a new project:

Featuring top Kansas City actors in episodes that include the all-new historical dramas based in Kansas City, classic whodunnits from Agatha Christie, Suspense Radio Series classics, radio comedy classics like The Bickersons, talk shows, game shows, and more!

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre aired new episodes weekly on KKFI 90.1 FM, with all episodes available on your favorite podcast platforms.

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre was sponsored by the Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts, the Estelle S. and Robert A. Long Ellis Foundation, the Miller Nichols Foundation, ArtsKC, the Missouri Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, Theater League, and the Breidenthal-Snyder Foundation.

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For a catalog of all available episodes visit our Spotify page!

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Info & News

March 25th

Return to Dust (from Suspense)

Airing this Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM is the FINAL weekly episode of Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre. From the Suspense Radio series comes “Return to Dust” by George Bamber, inspired by Richard Matheson’s novel “The Shrinking Man.”

James Howard has made an incredible scientific discovery. While attempting to create a bio-chemical agent that shrinks cancer cells, an inadvertent lab accident has caused James to shrink to only 1-foot tall, and he’s still shrinking! He is desperate to contact Dr. Bader, the only competent scientist who could reverse the process. Will Dr. Bader receive his message before James Howard returns to dust?

Featuring Walter Coppage, Kendra Keller, and Keenan Ramos. Directed by Gary Heisserer, sound design by Gianna Agostina, sound supervision by Mary Robinson, and hosted by John Rensenhouse.

As we return to a full season of five incredible productions (www.kcactors.org/season-18/) KCART will no longer be airing weekly on KKFI 90.1 FM. KCART will return with special episodes throughout Season 18, and you can listen to this week’s episode as well as almost 60 more episodes on all major podcast platforms.

March 18th

KCART Amplify: LGBTQ+ by Anna Hampton, Charlie Parsons, and Landon Hudson

Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM, Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre is proud to present “This is who I am” by Anna Hampton; “Not a Girl and Not Yours” by Charlie Parsons; and “My Pleasure” by Landon Hudson. These three short radio plays are presented as part of the “KCART Amplify: LGBTQ+” series where young writers are given the opportunity to present their work about the LGBTQ+ experience and community, and the experience of having their work produced from start to finish.

“This is who I am” by Anna Hampton is a spoken word piece performed by Erdin Schultz-Bever about coming out to their parent as pansexual and gender fluid, and the difficulties that come with it.

“Not a Girl and Not Yours” by Charlie Parsons is a short scene performed by Ahafia Jurkiewicz-Miles, Hollis Wilhoit, Bee Givens, and Phil Fiorini. Jessie struggles with telling his boyfriend that they don’t identify as a girl, and finding the right partner who will love them as they are.

“My Pleasure” by Landon Hudson is spoken word piece performed by Darrington Clark about when the place you work doesn’t align with who you are as a person, and your beliefs.

Directed and hosted by Phil Fiorini, featuring Erdin Schultz-Bever, Ahafia Jurkiewicz-Miles, R.H. Wilhoit, Phil Fiorini, Bee Givens, and Darrington Clark. Sound design by Mary Robinson.

 

March 11th

Written Off by Victor Wishna

This Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM don’t miss this week’s episode of Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre featuring “Written Off” by local favorite playwright Victor Wishna!

Frank, an aging soap opera star has blurred the line between his character and himself over the years. When he finds out his character is being ‘written off’ the show, he struggles to come to terms with the fact that his character is dying in this radio comedy farce.

Featuring Phil Fiorini, Nedra Dixon, and Matt Schwader. Directed by Jan Rogge, sound design and music by Mary Robinson and hosted by John Rensenhouse.

 

March 4th

Three Skeleton Key [Rebroadcast]

(This is a rebraodcast of “Three Skeleton Key,” an original adaptation by Jerry Mañan, which aired on KCART on December 10th, 2021.]

This week on Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre premieres a new adaptation of George G. Toudouze’s “Three Skeleton Key,” airing this Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM.

In a brand new radio adaptation of the short story “Three Skeleton Key” three men tend to a lighthouse on a remote island off the coast of French Guiana. When an abandoned ship full of ferocious and hungry rats makes landfall, the Jean, Auguste, and Louis must fend for their lives against the angry horde.

Featuring Khalif J. Gillett, R.H. Wilhoit, and Scott Cordes. Directed, adapted, and hosted by Jerry Mañan. Sound design by Mary Robinson.

February 25th

Personal Call (by Agatha Christie)

This Friday at noon, Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre returns to the weird and wonderful world of Agatha Christie in “Personal Call,” on KKFI 90.1 FM.

From May of 1954, James and Pamela Brent are hosting a dinner party when James is pulled away to answer a call. James is shocked when the woman on the other end claims to be his departed wife Fay, who is waiting at the exact spot of her untimely demise. Pamela insists they go and meet her as requested, and in the process discover a disturbing truth.

Featuring Christina Schafer, Cody Proctor, Karla Fennick, Jan Rogge, Logan Black, Weiyi Zhang, and Jerry Mañan. Directed by Darren Sextro, with sound design by Mary Robinson. Hosted by Teisha Bankston.

Produced by arrangement with Concord Theatricals and Agatha Christie Ltd.

February 18th

The Voice From the Other Side (A KCART Original) [Rebroadcast]

[This is a rebroadcast of “The Voice From the Other Side” originally airing on KCART on February 12th, 2021.]

The struggling writer of a 1940’s family radio show is mystified when his episodes start featuring strange dialog he didn’t write. Desperate for answers, he searches for the source of the mysterious interjections. This exciting original story by Jerry Mañan and Kitty Corum is in the spirit of the classic “Suspense” Series and is part Orson Welles, part Twilight Zone!

Featuring Jerry Mañan, Kitty Corum, Coleman Crenshaw, Walter Coppage, Victor Raider-Wexler, Drew Squire, and Emma Andrews. Written by Kitty Corum and Jerry Mañan. Directed by John Rensenhouse. Sound Design by Thomas Newby. Sound Supervision by Mary Robinson.

February 11th

Summer Night (from Suspense)

This week Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre returns to the Suspense Radio Series with “Summer Night” airing this Friday on KKFI 90.1 FM.

Aired July 15th, 1948 “Summer Night” tells about a small town with The Lipstick Killer on the loose. Anna reaches out to her old friend Helen who she hasn’t spoken to in four years. Anna wants Helen to come over because she doesn’t feel safe in her own home, the Lipstick Killer has struck twice already, and she’s worried she could be next.

Helen finds the request strange, but remembers that Anna was always a bit strange. Soon Helen will find out how strange Anna really is.

“Summer Night” is written by Robert L. Richards adapted from a short story by Ray Bradbury. Featuring Jessica Andrews, Hannah Barfoot, Vanessa Davis, and Trevor French. Directed and hosted by John Rensenhouse. Sound Design by Sam Toskin.

February 4th

August Heat (from Suspense) [Rebroadcast]

[This is a rebroadcast of “August Heat” originally airing on KCART on October 22nd, 2021.]

Originally aired May of 1945, “August Heat” tells of the artist Withencroft who, struck by sudden inspiration, draws a picture of a criminal at his trial. Across town, the stonemason Atkinson carves a gravestone for a man who has yet to die. Although the men are unknown to each other, they each get a glimpse into the other’s future… but hopefully that future is not so set in stone.

Featuring John Rensenhouse, Victor Raider-Wexler, and Meredith Wolfe. Directed by Gary Heisserer with sound design and engineering by Mary Robinson.

January 28th

Butter in a Lordly Dish by Agatha Christie

Sir Luke Enderby is a lawyer who became well known for prosecuting the serial killer Henry Garfield in the heavily publicized ‘Blondes on the Beach’ case. Having only just returned from another successful case, Enderby leaves his wife to meet up with his new flame Julia Keene for an isolated night in a cottage in the countryside. As the night progresses Julia Keane reveals more about herself as Enderby realizes it is too late.

Featuring Krista Eyler, Justin Barron, Jan Rogge, Kay Noonan, Teisha Bankston, Weiyi Zhang, and Trevor French. Written by Agatha Christie; directed by Darren Sextro. Sound design by Mary Robinson. Hosted by Walter Coppage

Produced by arrangement with Concord Theatricals and Agatha Christie Ltd.

January 21st

A Murderous Revision (from Suspense) [Rebroadcast]

[This is a rebroadcast of “A Murderous Revision” originally airing on KCART on October 16th, 2020.]

Have you ever just wanted to kill your boss? In this entry from the classic “Suspense” series, a scriptwriter for the fictional radio series, “Murder, Please,” is driven to the edge by a producer who keeps rewriting his scripts in this weeks episode of Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre.

Hosted by Walter Coppage and featuring David Fritts, Matt Williamson, Todd Lanker, Ashlee LaPine, Shawna Peña-Downing, Kris Stoker, and Nedra Dixon and directed by John Rensenhouse. Sound Design by Mary Robinson.

 

January 14th

The Terror of the Seas, by R. Bruce Connelly [Rebroadcast]

[This is a rebroadcast of “The Terror of the Seas,” originally airing on KCART on August 13th, 2021.]

Little did Miss Seidenstricker know when she took her Second Grade to see the Tall Ships at Mystic Seaport that she would be abducted by Pirates. And little did the Pirates know that they might have captured much more than they bargained for.

This story was adapted by the author from a short story that first appeared in the Pirate Volume of “Harvey Duckman Presents.”

Featuring Victor Raider-Wexler (who also directs), Nedra Dixon, Michael Ashcraft, Matt Schwader, and Scott Cordes, with vocals by Justin McCoy. Sound design and editing by Jon Robertson. Written by R. Bruce Connelly.

January 7th

Easy Aces – Jane Gets a Loan for Her Brother

Originally airing circa 1940, “Easy Aces” is a comedic look at real-life couple Jane and Goodman Ace, and the family and friends they deal with every day. In this week’s episode, Jane’s good-for-nothing brother Paul needs money for his ten year wedding anniversary. After Goodman denies Paul the money, Jane and Paul go to the Confidential Loan Company and Jane takes charge of getting her brother a loan, by any means necessary.

Featuring Sidonie Garrett & John Rensenhouse as Jane and Goodman Ace. Featuring Walter Coppage, Jan Rogge, Freddy Acevedo, Phil Fiorini, Trevor French, and Barb Nichols. Directed by Darren Sextro and sound design by Mary Robinson. Hosted by Teisha Bankston.

 

December 31st

Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?! – Founding Fathers (Feat. Damron Russel Armstrong and Ron Megee) [REBROADCAST]

(This week is a rebroadcast of “Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?!” which originally aired on KCART 8/20/21.)

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre returns with another episode of its lively game-and-talk show, “Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?!” this Friday.

Hosted by John Rensenhouse, the theme of this week’s episode is ‘Founding Fathers’ as John is joined by Damron Russel Armstrong (The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City) and Ron Megee (Late Night Theatre) two Kansas City based artists who discuss the challenges and rewards of starting a theatre company from the ground up. Don’t miss out on Miss Tewskbury singing patriotic songs and hearing the contestants test their Presidential knowledge in an episode you won’t want to miss!

Featuring John Rensenhouse, Damron Russel Armstrong, and Ron Megee, with sound engineering by Mary Robinson.

December 24th

The Shop Around the Corner

This week on Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre (KCART), we bring you a romantic holiday classic, “The Shop Around the Corner,” airing this Friday at Noon on KKFI 90.1 FM.

Klara and Martin are two shop clerks battling the Christmas sales season and each other. They don’t get along at all–except in the anonymous love letters they’re unknowingly exchanging!

The 1940 MGM movie and abridged radio version originally starred Jimmy Stewart and Margaret Sullavan. “The Shop Around the Corner” is adapted from “Parfumerie” by Miklos Lazlos, and also inspired the musicals “In the Good Old Summertime” and “She Loves Me” and of course the 1998 Tom Hanks & Meg Ryan classic “You’ve Got Mail!”

KCART’s rendition of “The Shop Around the Corner” features Bri Woods, Sam Cordes, Khalif J. Gillett, and John Rensenhouse. Directed by Hillary Clemens, sound design by Halley Sylvester, and sound supervision by Mary Robinson. Hosted by Matt Schwader.

Happy Holidays!

December 17th

Climate Change Theatre Action

This week on Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre we are proud to present four short plays as part of Climate Change Theatre Action.

“The Oysters” by Miranda Rose Hall brings attention to the plight of the oysters in the Chesapeake Bay. Filtering the water and building reefs, the Eastern Oyster is plagued by overharvesting and the pollution of the bay. http://www.mirandarosehall.com/

“all of us were born in the crisis” by Australian playwright David Finnigan is a poetic look at the super volcano that erupted 75,000 years ago, and how humanity bands together to persevere. https://davidfinig.com/

“The Penguin” by Canadian playwright Nicolas Billon is a comedic short play about cognitive dissonance and the mental gymnastics climate deniers put themselves through. https://nicolasbillon.com/

“What We Give Back” by Madeline Sayet is a critique of how saving the planet has become incentivized, rather than something we all must do to truly heal our planet. https://www.madelinesayet.com/

Featuring Karla Fennick, Ellen Kirk, Freddy Acevedo, Teisha Bankston, Merle Moores, Bri Woods, and Weiyi Zhang. Directed by Jan Rogge, John Rensenhouse, Jerry Mañan, and Gary Heisserer. Hosted by John Rensenhouse. Sound engineering by Gianna Agostina with sound supervision by Mary Robinson.

Climate Change Theatre Action is a worldwide series of play readings and performances of short climate change plays presented in support of the United Nations COP meetings. Don’t miss this special KCART production! http://www.climatechangetheatreaction.com/

December 10th

Three Skeleton Key

This week on Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre premieres a new adaptation of George G. Toudouze’s “Three Skeleton Key,” airing this Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM.

In a brand new radio adaptation of the short story “Three Skeleton Key” three men tend to a lighthouse on a remote island off the coast of French Guiana. When an abandoned ship full of ferocious and hungry rats makes landfall, the Jean, Auguste, and Louis must fend for their lives against the angry horde.

Featuring Khalif J. Gillett, R.H. Wilhoit, and Scott Cordes. Directed, adapted, and hosted by Jerry Mañan. Sound design by Mary Robinson.

December 3rd

Easy Aces: Baby Food [Rebroadcast]

(This week is a rebroadcast of “Easy Aces: Baby Food which originally aired on KCART 6/4/21.)

Goodman Ace finds himself juggling his work and home life when a surprise from Jane, his wife, intersects with a potential business client in this episode of the classic Kansas City-born radio comedy, “Easy Aces.”

Featuring Sidonie Garrett, John Rensenhouse, Walter Coppage, Teisha Bankston, Jan Rogge, Patrick Beasley, and Phil Fiorini with direction by Darren Sextro and sound design by Mary Robinson. Hosted by Walter Coppage.

November 26th

Easy Aces – Jane Takes Up Astrology [Rebroadcast]

(This Friday, 11/26, at noon is a rebroadcast of “Easy Aces – Jane Takes Up Astrology” which originally aired on KCART 1/8/21.)

When Astrology keeps Goodman Ace from getting ahead at his job, his wife, Jane, decides to see what all the fuss is about. See what’s in the stars for Jane and Goodman in this new presentation of a comedy radio classic, “Easy Aces.”

Featuring Sidonie Garrett, John Rensenhouse, Kathleen Warfel, Phil Fiorini, Damron Russell Armstrong, Jerry Mañan, and Carolyn Russell with Host Walter Coppage under the direction of Darren Sextro. Sound Design by Thomas Newby and Engineering by Mary Robinson.

November 19th

The Case of the Careless Victim  (from Agatha Christie’s Poirot Series) [Rebroadcast]

(This is a rebroadcast of Agatha Christie’s “The Case of the Careless Victim” which originally aired on KCART on 11/20/20.)

A man is found dead, alone and barricaded in his room in the first American adventure of Agatha Christie’s famous detective, Hercule Poirot. Follow along with the twists and turns of a classic Agatha Christie murder mystery with Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre!

Hosted by John Rensenhouse. Featuring Kathleen Warfel, Robert Gibby Brand, Carolyn Russell, Jerry Mañan, Shon Ruffin, Carla Noack, Greg Butell, and Weiyi Zhang. Directed by Darren Sextro. Sound Design by Mary Robinson.

November 12th

Sorry, Wrong Number (from Suspense) [Rebroadcast]

(This is a rebroadcast of Suspense radio series “Sorry, Wrong Number” which originally aired on KCART on 3/5/21.)

A bedridden woman listens in on a crossed-wire call, only to get drawn into a mystery deeper than she could have possibly expected. “Sorry, Wrong Number,” is a fun, twist-filled yarn that Orson Welles once referred to as ‘the greatest radio script ever written.’

Featuring Hillary Clemens, Matt Rapport, Jerry Mañan, Peggy Friesen, Damron Russel Armstrong, Teisha Bankston, an Jan Rogge. Directed by Darren Sextro with Sound Supervision by Mary Robinson and Sound Design by Sam Toskin.

November 5th

The Judge’s House (Episode 2)

This week Kansas City Actors Theatre premieres the second and final part of Bram Stoker’s “The Judge’s House,” this Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM.

KCART returns to “The Judge’s House,” written by master of horror Bram Stoker. Malcolm Malcolmson is trying to study for his upcoming exams, but his evenings are plagued by the rats who occupy the judge’s house. After receiving some helpful advice from a doctor Malcolm sets out on trying to end his ongoing nightmare. Soon, Malcolm Malcolmson will find out for whom the judge’s bell tolls.

Featuring Matt Schwader, Hillary Clemens, Cinnamon Schultz, Shawna Peña-Downing, Brian Paulette, and Victor Raider-Wexler. Directed by Matt Schwader, sound design and engineering by Thomas Newby, and hosted by Walter Coppage.

October 29th

The Judge’s House (Episode 1)

This week Kansas City Actors Theatre premieres its two-part production of Bram Stoker’s “The Judge’s House,” this Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM.

From 1914, “The Judge’s House,” written by master of horror Bram Stoker, tells of a Malcolm Malcolmson, a student searching for a quiet place to study for his upcoming exams. Ignoring the local superstitions, Malcolm moves into an old mansion once belonging to an infamous ‘hanging sudge’. As things around the house begin to grow uneasy, Malcolm soon learns to beware the superstitions.

Featuring Matt Schwader, Hillary Clemens, Jerry Mañan, Cinnamon Schultz and Shawna Peña-Downing. Directed by Matt Schwader, sound design and engineering by Thomas Newby, and hosted by Walter Coppage.

October 22nd

August Heat (from Suspense)

A brand new episode of the classic “Suspense” radio series returns to Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre with “August Heat” by W.F. Harvey, this FRIDAY at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM.

Originally aired May of 1945, “August Heat” tells of the artist Withencroft who, struck by sudden inspiration, draws a picture of a criminal at his trial. Across town, the stonemason Atkinson carves a gravestone for a man who has yet to die. Although the men are unknown to each other, they each get a glimpse into the other’s future… but hopefully that future is not so set in stone.

Featuring John Rensenhouse, Victor Raider-Wexler, and Meredith Wolfe. Directed by Gary Heisserer with sound design and engineering by Mary Robinson.

October 15th

The Medicine Man (KCART Amplify: BIPOC Edition) [Rebroadcast]

KCART is proud to rebroadcast the first radio play of its new “Amplify” series, where young playwrights have the chance to experience the process of producing their radio play from start to finish.

“The Medicine Man:” in Vietnam in 1946, the 4th generation medicine man of the Le family receives a visit from the spirit of his father, the previous medicine man, who warns of the danger and the endless war to come. The spirit insists that the medicine man find a successor soon, but with only a daughter left in the family, who could he possibly teach to be the next “medicine man?”

Featuring Vi Tran, Paul Kim, Erika Crane Ricketts, and Ai Vy Bui with direction from Shawna Peña-Downing and sound design by Thomas Newby. Written by Bui Ngoc Hieu, a Vietnamese-American actor, filmmaker, playwright, and student who is currently pursuing a BA in Theatre at UMKC.

October 8th

Mama Knows the Game (KCART Amplify: BIPOC Edition) [Rebroadcast]

KCART is proud to rebroadcast the first radio play of its new “Amplify” series, where young playwrights have the chance to experience the process of producing their radio play from start to finish.

In “Mama Knows the Game,” it’s a normal Friday afternoon when middle-school student Taveon abruptly runs into the wall of racism prevalent in the online gaming community. With the guidance and motivation of his parents, he learns important lessons about how a Black kid must navigate the treacherous world of white supremacy.

Featuring Teisha Bankston, Robert Coppage III, Terraye Rugga Watson, and Jerry Mañan with direction from Shawna Peña-Downing and sound design by Mary Robinson. Written by SaVaughn McClaine, a comedy writer and actor from Kansas City, Kansas, and a rising sophomore at The Theatre School at DePaul in Chicago.

October 1st

Love, Honor, or Murder (from Suspense) [REBROADCAST]
(This week is a rebroadcast of Suspense radio series “Love, Honor, or Murder” which originally aired 2/26/21.)

Opportunity knocks when a cabbie’s fare leaves something behind in his cab, but how far will he go to answer the call?

This episode features Cathy Barnett, David Fritts, Marc Liby, Darrington Clark, Joshua Gleeson, and Austin Taylor Smith. “Love, Honor, or Murder” was directed by Gary Heisserer with Sound Supervision by Mary Robinson and Sound Design by Caleb Stoller.

September 24th

Irish Joe and the Dutchman, by Bill Rogers

This Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM we are proud to present “Irish Joe and The Dutchman” a brand-new radio play by Bill Rogers.

Irish Joe Nolan (Victor Raider-Wexler), a former boxer turned private investigator is awoken on a dreary Monday morning with the news that someone has shot his Uncle and former business partner. Irish Joe’s investigation into his Uncle’s murder leads him all over the city, eventually getting himself wrapped up with Kansas City’s most lethal and infamous mobster, The Dutchman.

Featuring Victor Raider-Wexler, R.H. Wilhoit, Matt Schwader, Gary Neal Johnson, Nedra Dixon, Alisa Lynn, Manon Halliburton, David Fritts, and Scott Cordes. Directed by Victor Raider-Wexler, Hosted by Brian Paulette, Sound Design and Engineering by Jon Robertson

September 17th

There’s Always Room at the Top (from Suspense) [REBROADCAST]

(This is a rebroadcast of Suspense radio series “There’s Always Room at the Top” which originally aired 1/1/21.)

When a job interview doesn’t go as expected for a young go-getter, she’s given the opportunity to jump on an unforeseen second chance. But what’s really going on behind closed doors? From the classic radio series, Suspense, “There’s Always Room at the Top,” will keep you guessing right through its shocking conclusion!

Featuring Cinnamon Schultz, Nedra Dixon, Walter Coppage, Christina Schafer, Karla Fennick, Keenan Ramos, Kendra Keller, and Shea Ketchum with Host John Rensenhouse under the direction of Gary Heisserer. Sound Design and Engineering by Mary Robinson.

September 10th

Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?! – Married Bliss (Feat. Scott Cordes and Jen Mays)

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre returns with another episode of its lively game-and-talk show, “Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?!” this Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM.

The theme of this week’s episode is “Married Bliss” as host John Rensenhouse is joined by real-life couple Scott Cordes and Jen Mays. The married Kansas City actors talk about how they met, their history, and are quizzed on their knowledge of celebrity couples. And of course Miss Tewskbury returns to serenade the audience with songs about love.

Featuring John Rensenhouse, Scott Cordes and Jen Mays. With Sound Engineering by Thomas Newby.

 

September 3rd

The Bickersons Need a Vacation

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre returns with another episode of Philip Rapp’s classic comedic couple in “The Bickersons Need a Vacation” this Friday at noon on KKFI 90.1 FM.

Originally aired August 14th, 1951, this week Blanche and John do what they do best: bicker. John goes to the doctor for his ‘sluggishness’ and Blanche visits the laundromat. Blanche forces John to take a vacation and the happily married couple head off to Yellowstone.

Featuring real-life married couple Matt Schwader and Hillary Clemens with Marisa Tejeda as Clara and Keenan Ramos as The Doctor. Hosted by John Rensenhouse, directed by Gary Heisserer, with sound design by Mary Robinson.

August 27th

The House in Cypress Canyon (from Suspense) [REBROADCAST]

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre is taking a week off, and are rebroadcasting “The House in Cypress Canyon” which originally aired on January 15th, 2021.

A terrifying mystery unfolds when a chilling manuscript is found in an uncompleted house in the classic Suspense story, “The House in Cypress Canyon,” this week on Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre. Though it only aired once, it is frequently cited as one of the most terrifying stories produced during radio’s Golden Age. This tale – newly produced with Kansas City actors – is one you won’t soon forget!

Featuring Joe Carr, Val Fagan, Todd Lanker, Ashlee LaPine, Chris Roady, Bradley Thomas, and Hannah Barfoot with Host Walter Coppage. Directed by John Rensenhouse with Sound Design and Engineering by Mary Robinson.

August 20th

Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?! – Founding Fathers (Feat. Damron Russel Armstrong and Ron Megee)

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre returns with another episode of its lively game-and-talk show, “Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?!” this Friday.

Hosted by John Rensenhouse, the theme of this week’s episode is ‘Founding Fathers’ as John is joined by Damron Russel Armstrong (The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City) and Ron Megee (Late Night Theatre) two Kansas City based artists who discuss the challenges and rewards of starting a theatre company from the ground up. Don’t miss out on Miss Tewskbury singing patriotic songs and hearing the contestants test their Presidential knowledge in an episode you won’t want to miss!

Featuring John Rensenhouse, Damron Russel Armstrong, and Ron Megee, with sound engineering by Mary Robinson.

August 13th

The Terror of the Seas, by R. Bruce Connelly

Little did Miss Seidenstricker know when she took her Second Grade to see the Tall Ships at Mystic Seaport that she would be abducted by Pirates. And little did the Pirates know that they might have captured much more than they bargained for.

This story was adapted by the author from a short story that first appeared in the Pirate Volume of “Harvey Duckman Presents.”

Featuring Victor Raider-Wexler (who also directs), Nedra Dixon, Michael Ashcraft, Matt Schwader, and Scott Cordes, with vocals by Justin McCoy. Sound design and editing by Jon Robertson. Written by R. Bruce Connelly.

August 6th

The Medicine Man (KCART Amplify: BIPOC Edition)

KCART is proud to present the second radio play of its new “Amplify” series, where young playwrights have the chance to experience the process of producing their radio play from start to finish.

In Vietnam in 1946, the 4th generation medicine man of the Le family receives a visit from the spirit of his father, the previous medicine man, who warns of the danger and the endless war to come. The spirit insists that the medicine man find a successor soon, but with only a daughter left in the family, who could he possibly teach to be the next “medicine man?”

Featuring Vi Tran, Paul Kim, Erika Crane Ricketts, and Ai Vy Bui with direction from Shawna Peña-Downing and sound design by Thomas Newby. Written by Bui Ngoc Hieu, a Vietnamese-American actor, filmmaker, playwright, and student who is currently pursuing a BA in Theatre at UMKC

 

July 30th

Mama Knows the Game (KCART Amplify: BIPOC Edition)

KCART is proud to present the first radio play of its new “Amplify” series, where young playwrights have the chance to experience the process of producing their radio play from start to finish.

In “Mama Knows the Game,” it’s a normal Friday afternoon when middle-schooler Taveon abruptly runs into the wall of racism prevalent in the online gaming community. With the guidance and motivation of his parents, he learns important lessons about how a Black kid must navigate the treacherous world of white supremacy.

Featuring Teisha Bankston, Robert Coppage III, Terraye Rugga Watson, and Jerry Mañan with direction from Shawna Peña-Downing and sound design by Mary Robinson. Written by SaVaughn McClaine, a comedy writer and actor from Kansas City, Kansas, and a rising sophomore at The Theatre School at DePaul in Chicago.

July 23rd

Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?! – Christmas in July (feat. Sidonie Garrett and Walter Coppage)

This week KCAT presents a new episode of the talk-and-game show, “Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?!” with host John Rensenhouse and special guests Sidonie Garrett and Walter Coppage. It’s Christmas in July, so listen as Sidonie and Walter talk about their experiences performing “A Christmas Carol” — and other Christmas-related fun to help you cool off!

Sidonie Garrett has been a presence in the Kansas City theatre scene for many years as an actress, director, and producer. Currently she is the Executive Artistic Director of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival and directs their summer offerings in Southmoreland Park. As an actress, she has
worked at the Coterie, the Kansas City Rep and Kansas City Actors Theatre.

Walter Coppage was one of the original founders of Kansas City Actors Theatre and has been a mainstay of the theatre community here. He has worked at most every theatre in town and is always featured in the annual production of A Christmas Carol at the Kansas City Rep. He also works at theatres around the country and most recently filmed episodes of Showtime’s original series The Chi in Chicago.

July 16th

Ca$h 4 Carnage, Episode 5 – The Monster You Know

A reckoning arrives and the bodies in the donated cadaver program are warmer than usual in the shocking conclusion of “Ca$h 4 Carnage.”

Featuring Walter Coppage, Ai By Bui, Vanessa Severo, Nedra Dixon, Criston Starks, and Justin McCoy with direction from Brianna Woods and sound design by La’ron Cooper. Written by Khalif J. Gillett.

July 9th

Ca$h 4 Carnage, Episode 4 – Arms Race

The pressure rises as witnesses step forward and The Law draws closer. Desperate people risk rash decisions as they race to escape the collapsing web of body-related crime threatening to bury them. 

Featuring Donovan Woods, Walter Coppage, Ai Vy Bui, Vanessa Severo, Nedra Dixon, Criston Starks, and Bety Le Shackelford under the direction of Brianna Woods with sound design by La’ron Cooper. Written by Khalif J. Gillett. 

 

July 2nd

Ca$h 4 Carnage, Episode 3 – Friends and Ethics

History repeats itself as new developments lead Detective Nguyên to resurrect an old case. Meanwhile, the stakes are raised as dreams start to sour and conspirators search for honor among thieves.

Featuring Donovan Woods, Walter Coppage, Ai Vy Bui, Vanessa Severo, Nedra Dixon, Just McCoy, and Bety Le Shackelford with direction by Brianna Woods and sound design by La’ron Cooper. Written by Khalif J. Gillett.

June 25th

Ca$h 4 Carnage, Episode 2 – Catching Mice

New mysteries are revealed as Detective Nguyên gets her hands dirty dissecting the backgrounds of the mysterious figures of her mentor’s cold case of disappearing bodies.

Featuring Donovan Woods, Nedra Dixon, Walter Coppage, Vanessa Severo, Criston Starks, Justin McCoy and Ai Vy Bui under the direction of Brianna Woods with sound design by La’ron Cooper. Written by Khalif J. Gillett.

June 18th

Ca$h 4 Carnage, Episode 1 – Second Chances

As bodies start to turn up missing from a university medical lab, a headstrong youth takes a job from the ego-driven professor who runs the donated cadaver program in the opening episode of this five-part ’90s-era noir by KC-raised writer Khalif J. Gillett.

Featuring Donovan Woods, Nedra Dixon, Walter Coppage, Vanessa Severo, Criston Starks, Justin McCoy, and Ai Vy Bui with direction from Brianna Woods and sound design by La’ron Cooper.

June 11th

Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?!, Episode 2 – LIVE on KKFI (feat. Cathy Barnett and Phil Fiorini)

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre’s game-and-talk show “Oh My God, Did You Just Say That?!” returns with a LIVE episode and as part of a pledge week drive for our partner station, KKFI!

Host John Rensenhouse welcomes back guests Cathy Barnett and Phil Fiorini for our first-ever LIVE show, including a lively and witty conversation with more fun games to get John to declare, “Oh my God, did you just say that?!”

Cathy Barnett appears frequently at The New Theatre and has performed at the Unicorn, Kansas City Rep, Starlight and, of course, Kansas City Actors Theatre. Phil Fiorini played Pumbaa in the national tour of The Lion King and has worked locally at The New Theatre, the Unicorn, the Coterie, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Kansas City Rep and, of course, Kansas City Actors Theatre.

This episode was recorded live in-studio at KKFI 90.1 FM Kansas City as part of the station’s pledge week.

June 4th

Easy Aces: Baby Food

Goodman Ace finds himself juggling his work and home life when a surprise from Jane, his wife, intersects with a potential business client in this episode of the classic Kansas City-born radio comedy, “Easy Aces.”

Featuring Sidonie Garrett, John Rensenhouse, Walter Coppage, Teisha Bankston, Jan Rogge, Patrick Beasley, and Phil Fiorini with direction by Darren Sextro and sound design by Mary Robinson. Hosted by Walter Coppage.

May 28th

The Hitchhiker (from Suspense)

A man embarks on a solo cross-country drive to California, only to find more company than he expected on his journey.

Originally written by Lucille Fletcher for Orson Welles’s radio series, this classic script of suspense was performed for radio four different times and was also adapted for TV in the first season of “The Twilight Zone.”

Featuring Jerry Mañan, Amber McKinnon, Vi Nhan Tran, Martin Buchanan, Brianna Woods, Jazlyn Epps, and Cinnamon Schultz with direction by Matt Schwader and sound design by Thomas Newby. Hosted by Walter Coppage.

May 21st

Oh My God, Did You Just Say That? (with Cathy Barnett and Phil Fiorini)

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre presents the first episode of an all-new, all-different game and talk show with host John Rensenhouse and special guests, Kansas City actors Cathy Barnett and Phil Fiorini! Listen in as Cathy and Phil talk about scandalous bits from their separate and shared pasts and answer outrageous questions.

Cathy Barnett appears frequently at The New Theatre and has performed at the Unicorn, Kansas City Rep, Starlight and, of course, Kansas City Actors Theatre.  Phil Fiorini played Pumbaa in the national tour of The Lion King and has worked locally at The New Theatre, the Unicorn, the Coterie, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Kansas City Rep and, of course, Kansas City Actors Theatre.

May 14th

The Bickersons: The New Apartment

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre returns from a break with The Bickersons! Blanche pines for a new place as John has a potential business partner to entertain. Will they move up from their room without a view?

Featuring Matt Schwader, Olyvia Anothayanontha, Hillary Clemens, Santiago Sosa, Joshua Gleeson, and Walter Coppage. Directed by Gary Heisserer with Sound Design and Supervision by Mary Robinson.

April 2nd

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre’s April Break and Future Preview

Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre is taking a broadcast break in April as we get a head start on a new, exciting batch of content ready for you in our 2021-2022 season of free radio theatre programming! In this update, John Rensenhouse, Kansas City Actors Theatre Artistic Committee Chair, talks about the exciting projects we have coming up for KCART in the next year, from original works like “Ca$h 4 Carnage,” more classic radio theatre, and even a new (hopefully live) game show format with Kansas City artists and actors. Listen in on this short update and we’ll see you back for new episodes starting on May 14th.

March 26th

Kansas City: 1924 – Frigidus in Terra

Revenge is served cold with the closing of “Kansas City: 1924” in the final episode, “Frigidus in Terra.” Fate trades life for life and future for future as a brutal winter descends on the city and its denizens look forward to the world to come.

Featuring Matt Schwader, Scott Cordes, Victor Raider-Wexler (who also Directs), Mike Ott, Mark Robbins, Bri Woods, Jen Mays, Kyle Dyck, Chioma Anyanwu, Brian Paulette, Nedra Dixon, Rusty Sneary, Sam Cordes, Jerry Mañan, Granvile O’Neal, Vanessa Severo, Walter Coppage, Natalie Licardello, and Justin McCoy. Sound Design by Jonathan Robertson. Written by Forrest Attaway.

March 19th

Kansas City: 1924 – The Reckoning

Revelation and retribution arrive in “The Reckoning,” episode 11 of “Kansas City: 1924.” Vincent’s true nature is finally revealed and a tragedy of Shakespearean proportions is set into motion. Don’t miss this stirring preparation for the stunning conclusion of “Kansas City: 1924.”

Featuring Matt Schwader, Jan Rogge, Ellen Kirk, Scott Cordes, Victor Raider-Wexler (who also directs), Manon Halliburton, Mike Ott, Mark Robbins, Bri Woods, Jen Mays, Kyle Dyck, Chioma Anyanwu, Katie Hall, Katie Gilchrist, Brian Paulette, Nedra Dixon, and Gary Neal Johnson. Sound Design by Jonathan Robertson. Written by Forrest Attaway.

March 12th

Kansas City: 1924 – Doppelganger

In “Doppelganger,” the 10th episode of “Kansas City: 1924,” a bold plan is carried out to bring an end to further bloodshed in the cross-town war, but there’s no guarantee – or even faith – that it will work. Meanwhile, shocking revelations come to light and a heartbreaking confrontation is put into motion.

Featuring Rusty Sneary, Matt Schwader, Jan Rogge, Ellen Kirk, Scott Cordes, RH Wilhoit, Alisa Lynn, Victor Raider-Wexler (who also Directs), Manon Halliburton, Mike Ott, Mark Robbins, and Bri Woods with Sound Design and Engineering by Jon Robertson. Written by Forrest Attaway.

March 5th

Sorry, Wrong Number (from “Suspense”)

A bedridden woman listens in on a crossed-wire call, only to get drawn into a mystery deeper than she could have possibly expected. “Sorry, Wrong Number,” is a fun, twist-filled yarn that Orson Welles once referred to as ‘the greatest radio script ever written.’

Featuring Hillary Clemens, Matt Rapport, Jerry Mañan, Peggy Friesen, Damron Russel Armstrong, Teisha Bankston, and Jan Rogge. Directed by Darren Sextro with Sound Supervision by Mary Robinson and Sound Design by Sam Toskin.

February 26th

Love, Honor, or Murder (from “Suspense”)

Opportunity knocks when a cabbie’s fare leaves something behind in his taxi, but how far is he willing to go to answer the call? Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre presents the twists and turns of the classic “Suspense” story “Love, Honor, or Murder.”

Featuring Cathy Barnett, David Fritts, Marc Liby, Darrington Clark, Joshua Gleason, Austin Taylor Smith, and Kathleen Warfel with Host John Rensenhouse. Directed by Gary Heisserer with Sound Supervision by Mary Robinson and Sound Design by Caleb Stoller.

February 19th

Comediennes (A KCART Original)

When two performers start chatting during the intermission break of their improv set, they end up getting a lot more personal about comedy than they expected. Written by KC’s own Tosin Morohunfola, the radio play “Comediennes” draws from some of his back-stage experiences with improvisers from across the country.

Featuring Justin Barron, Katie Karel, and Amber McKinnon. Directed by Shon Ruffin with Sound Supervision by Mary Robinson and Sound Design by Matt Barnes.

February 12th

The Voice From the Other Side (A KCART Original)

The struggling writer of a 1940’s family radio show is mystified when his episodes start featuring strange dialog he didn’t write. Desperate for answers, he searches for the source of the mysterious interjections. This exciting original story by Jerry Mañan and Kitty Corum is in the spirit of the classic “Suspense” Series and is part Orson Welles, part Twilight Zone!

Featuring Jerry Mañan, Kitty Corum, Coleman Crenshaw, Walter Coppage, Victor Raider-Wexler, Drew Squire, and Emma Andrews. Written by Kitty Corum and Jerry Mañan. Directed by John Rensenhouse. Sound Design by Thomas Newby. Sound Supervision by Mary Robinson.

February 5th

Kansas City: 1924 – Best Laid Plans

Brazen and desperate schemes take shape this week in “Best Laid Plans,” episode 9 of our original series, “Kansas City: 1924,” by Forrest Attaway. As dust settles on the latest battle for the streets of Kansas City, the combatants nurse their wounds and look for a way forward, with or without further bloodshed.

This latest episode in the ongoing historical saga “Kansas City: 1924” features Rusty Sneary, Matt Schwader, Katie Hall, Chioma Anyanwu, Kyle Dyck, Katie Gilchrist, Ellen Kirk, Scott Cordes, Gary Neal Johnson, RH Wilhoit, Alisa Lynn, Granvile O’Neal, Nedra Dixon, Walter Coppage, Justin McCoy, and Victor Raider-Wexler. Written by Forrest Attaway. Directed by Victor Raider-Wexler with Sound Design and Engineering by Jonathan Robertson.

January 29th

Kansas City: 1924 – Blood

The dominoes start to fall in “Blood,” episode 8 of the historical radio epic, “Kansas City: 1924.” As the effects of a crackdown are felt throughout the city, reality comes crashing into fantasy and tensions rise as everyone looks for someone to blame… and someone to hurt.

Written by Forrest Attaway and featuring Rusty Sneary, Matt Schwader, Bri Woods, Katie Hall, Chioma Anyanwu, Kyle Dyck, Jerry Mañan, Jan Rogge, Mark Robbins, Mike Ott, Katie Gilchrist, Ellen Kirk, Jen Mays, Sam Cordes, Scott Cordes, Victor Raider-Wexler and host Cinnamon Schultz. Directed by Victor Raider-Wexler with Sound Direction and Design by Jonathan Robertson.

January 22nd

Kansas City: 1924 – The Ides of Summer

Personal vendettas deepen as the bill for blood comes due in Episode 7 of Kansas City: 1924, “The Ides of Summer.” In this episode, Giovanni’s mob plots their next move after months of sabotage at the hands of Livestock Exchange agents and we see the personal toll of the ongoing conflict. Don’t miss Kansas City’s finest actors in the next chapter of this historical epic.

Featuring Ellen Kirk, Cinnamon Schultz, Mark Robbins, Michael Ott, Brian Paulette, Scott Cordes, Rusty Sneary, Nedra Dixon, Justin McCoy, Jan Rogge, Katie Hall, Alisa Lynn, RH Wilhoit, Matt Rapport, Sam Cordes and Victor Raider-Wexler. Written by Forrest Attaway. Directed by Victor Raider-Wexler with Sound Design and Engineering by Jonathan Robertson.

January 15th

The House in Cypress Canyon (from Suspense)

A terrifying mystery unfolds when a chilling manuscript is found in an uncompleted house in the classic Suspense story, “The House in Cypress Canyon,” this week on Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre. Though it only aired once, it is frequently cited as one of the most terrifying stories produced during radio’s Golden Age. This tale – newly produced with Kansas City actors – is one you won’t soon forget!

Featuring Joe Carr, Val Fagan, Todd Lanker, Ashlee LaPine, Chris Roady, Bradley Thomas, and Hannah Barfoot with Host Walter Coppage. Directed by John Rensenhouse with Sound Supervision by Mary Robinson.

January 8th

Easy Aces: Jane Takes Up Astrology

When Astrology keeps Goodman Ace from getting ahead at his job,  his wife, Jane, decides to see what all the fuss is about. See what’s in the stars for Jane and Goodman in this new presentation of a comedy radio classic, “Easy Aces.”

Featuring Sidonie Garrett, John Rensenhouse, Kathleen Warfel, Phil Fiorini, Damron Russell Armstrong, Jerry Mañan, and Carolyn Russell with Host Walter Coppage under the direction of Darren Sextro. Sound Design by Thomas Newby and Engineering by Mary Robinson.

January 1st

There’s Always Room at the Top (from Suspense)

When a job interview doesn’t go as expected for a young go-getter, she’s given the opportunity to jump on an unforeseen second chance. But what’s really going on behind closed doors? From the classic radio series, Suspense, “There’s Always Room at the Top,” will keep you guessing right through its shocking conclusion!

Featuring Cinnamon Schultz, Nedra Dixon, Walter Coppage, Christina Schafer, Karla Fennick, Keenan Ramos, Kendra Keller, and Shea Ketchum with Host John Rensenhouse under the direction of Gary Heisserer. Sound Design and Engineering by Mary Robinson.

December 25th

A Holiday with The Bickersons & A Kansas City Actors Theatre Eggnog Party

Holiday fun is here! This episode of Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre features a holiday installment of the comedy classic, “The Bickersons,” and an Eggnog Tasting Party with new Kansas City Actors Theatre company members Jerry Mañan and Bri Woods along with Host John Rensenhouse! Whip up a batch of homemade eggnog and enjoy.

Find the Joy of Cooking recipe for Uncooked Eggnog here.

Featuring Hillary Clemens, Jerry Mañan, Bri Woods, Matt Schwader, and Host John Rensenhouse. Directed by Gary Heisserer. Sound Design and Engineering on “The Bickersons” by Mary Robinson. Sound Engineering for “A KCAT Eggnog Party” by Matt Sameck. “The Bickersons” was written by Philip Rapp.

December 18th

Kansas City: 1924 – A Measured Response

The conflict comes to blows and vengeance gets personal in episode 6 of Kansas City: 1924, “A Measured Response.” As more and more Kansas Citians are drawn into the war between the bootleggers and the ranchers, a shocking discovery is made about George and his mysterious belle.

Hosted by Cinnamon Schultz and featuring Victor Radier-Wexler (also Director), Ellen Kirk, Jan Rogge, Walter Coppage, Granville O’Neal, Natalie Liccardello, Mark Robbins, Katie Hall, David Fritts, Michael Ott, and Vanessa Severo. Written by Forrest Attaway with Sound Design by Jonathan Robertson.

December 11th

Kansas City: 1924 – Baseball Season

After the shocking cliffhanger in the last episode of “Kansas City: 1924,” what seems like a break in the weather may turn out to be just be the eye of the storm. In episode 5, “Baseball Season,” the turf war between Ma Pritchett and Joey Giovanni threatens to spiral out of control as we learn what has become of Rose and George.

Featuring Victor Raider-Wexler (who also directs), Matt Schwader, Scott Cordes, Matt Rapport, R. H. Wilhoit, Ellen Kirk, Jan Rogge, Kyle Dyck, Brianna Woods, Jen Mays, Chioma Anyanwu, Gary Neal Johnson, Brian Paulette, and Sam Cordes. Written by Forrest Attaway and hosted by Cinnamon Schultz. Sound Design by Jonathan Robertson. Written by Forrest Attaway.

December 4th

Kansas City: 1924 – The Levy Breaks

In episode 4 of “Kansas City: 1924,” a storm rolls in as George and his family seek unconventional help for their problem, the next shot in the cross-town war of businesses lands, and some of Vincent’s mysterious background is brought to light.

Featuring Victor Raider-Wexler (who also directs), Walter Coppage, Vanessa Severo, Bri Woods, Justin McCoy, Brian Paulette, Katie Gilchrist, Mike Ott, Jan Rogge, Kyle Dyck, Katie Hall, Chioma Anyanwu, Jen Mays, Scott Cordes, Ellen Kirk, Mark Robbins, Matt Schwader, and Bri Woods. Hosted by Cinnamon Schultz with Sound Design by Jon Robertson. Written by Forrest Attaway.

November 27th

Cabin B-13 (from “Suspense”)

A newlywed couple sets off on a cruise ship with $10,000 for expenses, only to find a very different experience from the romantic honeymoon they expected. First broadcast in 1943, John Dickson Carr’s “Cabin B-13” was hailed among the best of the “Suspense” series, was aired three times, and has served as the inspiration for multiple iterations and re-tellings.

Featuring Christina Schafer, Logan Black, Robert Gibby Brand, Shawna Peña-Downng, Darren Kennedy, and Mark Robbins. Hosted by John Rensenhouse. Directed by Jan Rogge. Sound Design and Sound Engineering by Mary Robinson.

November 20th

The Case of the Careless Victim (from Agatha Christie’s Poirot Series)

A man is found dead, alone and barricaded in his room in the first American adventure of Agatha Christie’s famous detective, Hercule Poirot. Follow along with the twists and turns of a classic Agatha Christie murder mystery with Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre!

Hosted by John Rensenhouse. Featuring Kathleen Warfel, Robert Gibby Brand, Carolyn Russell, Jerry Mañan, Shon Ruffin, Carla Noack, Greg Butell, and Weiyi Zhang. Directed by Darren Sextro. Sound Design by Mary Robinson.

November 13th

Kansas City: 1924 – A Warm Wind

George searches for a way to work through his problem as new bonds are formed and strengthened among shifting alliances. Meanwhile, an unwelcome visiting group meets a Kansas City greeting committee and the conflict between the mob and the cattlemen reaches City Hall.

Featuring Victor Raider-Wexler, Justin McCoy, Walter Coppage, Ellen Kirk, Scott Cordes, R.H. Wilhoit, Kyle Dyck, Chioma Anyanwu, Katie Hall, David Fritts, Mike Ott, Bri Woods, Matt Schwader, Brian Paulette, and Katie Gilchrist. Hosted by John Rensenhouse. Sound Design by Jonathan Robertson. Directed by Victor Raider-Wexler. Written by Forrest Attaway.

November 6th

Kansas City: 1924 – The Way Forward

Tensions continue to rise between mafioso Joey Giovanni and cattle rancher Ma Pritchett as a corrupt city government gets involved. Meanwhile, Vincent’s role starts to become clearer as Rose and the rest of her family discover why her brother, George, is so desperate to skip town.

Featuring Victor Raider-Wexler, Matt Schwader, Scott Cordes, Ellen Kirk, Jen Mays, Walter Copapge, Granville O’Neal, Bri Woods, Justin McCoy, Gary Neal Johnson, Jan Rogge, Chioma Anyanwu, Kyle Dyck, and Mark Robbins. Hosted by Cinnamon Schultz. Directed by Victor Raider-Wexler. Sound Design by Jonathan Robertson. Written by Forrest Attaway.

October 30th

Kansas City: 1924 – The Ties That Bind

In the opening episode of Forrest Attaway’s “Kansas City: 1924,” “The Ties that Bind,” the new and old ways go head-to-head when the Esposito mob tangles with Ma Pritchett’s cattle outfit. Meanwhile, a well-connected and mysterious stranger arrives in town, meeting a jazz singer with conflicting interests. An unmistakable message is sent to the mafia on their home turf as this cold war threatens to heat up.

Featuring Victor Raider-Wexler, Matt Schwader, Scott Cordes, Mark Robbins, Ellen Kirk, Mike Ott, Jan Rogge, Kyle Dyck, Bri Woods, and Justin McCoy. Hosted by Cinnamon Schultz and directed by Victor Raider-Wexler. Sound Design by Jonathan Robertson.

October 23rd

Easy Aces – Jane Goes to a Psychiatrist

Conceived right here in Kansas City, “Easy Aces” follows the cheerfully absurd marital misadventures of Goodman and Jane Ace. Here Jane visits a Psychiatrist to talk about her problems, some of which may actually exist! Featuring John Rensenhouse, Sidonie Garrett, Kathleen Warfel, Cinnamon Schultz, Nedra Dixon, and David Hall. Hosted by Walter Coppage and directed by Darren Sextro. Sound Design by Mary Robinson.

October 16th

A Murderous Revision

Have you ever just wanted to kill your boss? In this entry from the classic “Suspense” series, a scriptwriter for the fictional radio series, “Murder, Please,” is driven to the edge by a producer who keeps rewriting his scripts in this weeks episode of Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre. Hosted by Walter Coppage and featuring David Fritts, Matt Williamson, Todd Lanker, Ashlee LaPine, Shawna Peña-Downing, Kris Stoker, and Nedra Dixon and directed by John Rensenhouse. Sound Design by Mary Robinson.

October 9th

The Bickersons – The Honeymoon Is Over

John and Blanche Bickerson are perfectly suited for each other, just in their own special way. Full of wit and rejoinders in the tradition of classic comedies like “The Honeymooners,” Kansas City Actors Radio Theatre presents Philip Rapp’s classic radio comedy, “The Bickersons.” Featuring Hillary Clemens as Blanche, Matt Schwader as John, Nedra Dixon as Dr. Hershey, and Justin Barron as the Cop and Mr. Guernsey. Directed by Gary Heisserer. Sound Design by Mary Robinson.