Season 3 Episode 6

"Les Misérables" is a renowned novel written by French author Victor Hugo. Published in 1862, it is considered one of the greatest literary works of the 19th century. The story is set in early 19th-century France and follows the lives of several characters as they navigate themes of justice, redemption, love, and revolution.

The plot revolves around the life of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict who is relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert. Valjean, having served a lengthy prison sentence for stealing a loaf of bread, strives to escape his criminal past and live a righteous life. Along the way, he encounters various individuals, including the destitute Fantine and her daughter Cosette, who becomes a central figure in Valjean's life.

As the narrative unfolds, "Les Misérables" delves into the social and political turmoil of the time, including the June Rebellion of 1832. The novel explores the stark divide between the rich and the poor, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices made by those on the margins of society. Victor Hugo's work paints a vivid picture of the human condition and serves as a powerful critique of social injustice and the impact of poverty.

The radio presentation of "Les Misérables" through the "Lux Theater" took place on February 22, 1943. The adaptation of Victor Hugo's epic novel was written by Orson Welles and starred him in the role of Jean Valjean. The radio play condensed the extensive storyline of the novel, capturing the essence of the characters and their journeys. The "Lux Theater" production brought the emotional depth and social commentary of "Les Misérables" to the radio audience, showcasing the enduring power of Hugo's masterpiece."Les Misérables" is a renowned novel written by French author Victor Hugo. Published in 1862, it is considered one of the greatest literary works of the 19th century. The story is set in early 19th-century France and follows the lives of several characters as they navigate themes of justice, redemption, love, and revolution.

The plot revolves around the life of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict who is relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert. Valjean, having served a lengthy prison sentence for stealing a loaf of bread, strives to escape his criminal past and live a righteous life. Along the way, he encounters various individuals, including the destitute Fantine and her daughter Cosette, who becomes a central figure in Valjean's life.

As the narrative unfolds, "Les Misérables" delves into the social and political turmoil of the time, including the June Rebellion of 1832. The novel explores the stark divide between the rich and the poor, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices made by those on the margins of society. Victor Hugo's work paints a vivid picture of the human condition and serves as a powerful critique of social injustice and the impact of poverty.

The radio presentation of "Les Misérables" through the "Lux Theater" took place on February 22, 1943. The adaptation of Victor Hugo's epic novel was written by Orson Welles and starred him in the role of Jean Valjean. The radio play condensed the extensive storyline of the novel, capturing the essence of the characters and their journeys. The "Lux Theater" production brought the emotional depth and social commentary of "Les Misérables" to the radio audience, showcasing the enduring power of Hugo's masterpiece.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 5

"Julius Caesar" is a historical tragedy written by renowned playwright William Shakespeare. Believed to have been written in 1599, the play dramatizes the events surrounding the assassination of the Roman dictator Julius Caesar and the subsequent power struggles in Rome. The story explores themes of ambition, betrayal, loyalty, and the consequences of political unrest.

The plot centers around the conspiracy to assassinate Julius Caesar, led by a group of senators who fear his growing power and influence. Despite warnings from the soothsayer and his wife Calpurnia's ominous dreams, Caesar proceeds to the Senate, where he is brutally stabbed to death by the conspirators, including his trusted friend Brutus. This act sparks a series of conflicts and civil war in Rome as the conspirators, led by Brutus and Cassius, face off against Caesar's loyal supporters, led by Mark Antony.

The play delves into the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, particularly Brutus, who is torn between his loyalty to Rome and his friendship with Caesar. Mark Antony, a skilled orator, delivers a famous funeral speech that ignites public sentiment against the conspirators. The play culminates in a climactic battle at Philippi, where the forces of Brutus and Cassius clash with those of Octavius Caesar and Mark Antony.

The radio presentation of "Julius Caesar" through the "Mercury Theater" occurred on September 11, 1938. This adaptation, directed by Orson Welles, featured a modernized setting with a contemporary political context to draw parallels between ancient Rome and the rise of Fascism in Europe at the time. Welles himself played the role of Brutus, and the production employed innovative sound effects and dynamic performances to bring Shakespeare's tragedy to the radio audience. The "Mercury Theater" production of "Julius Caesar" is remembered for its creative interpretation and powerful storytelling, solidifying its place as one of the notable radio adaptations of the play.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 4

"Dracula" is a classic gothic horror novel written by Irish author Bram Stoker. Published in 1897, it tells the chilling story of Count Dracula, a centuries-old vampire from Transylvania who moves to England in search of fresh blood and new victims. The novel is presented through a series of diary entries, letters, and newspaper clippings that chronicle the harrowing encounters of the protagonists with the malevolent Count.

The plot revolves around a group of characters who become entangled in the web of Count Dracula's supernatural influence. The main protagonist is Jonathan Harker, a young solicitor who travels to Transylvania to provide legal assistance to the Count. As the story unfolds, Harker discovers the true nature of his host and the horrors that await him.

Back in England, Dracula's sinister presence starts to spread, leading to a thrilling battle between the forces of good and evil. The group of individuals determined to stop the vampire includes Professor Abraham Van Helsing, a renowned expert in the supernatural, and Mina Murray, Harker's fiancée. They embark on a perilous quest to save Mina from the clutches of Dracula and protect their society from his nocturnal reign of terror.

The radio presentation of "Dracula" through the "Mercury Theater" took place on July 11, 1938. This adaptation was written by Howard E. Koch and directed by Orson Welles, who also played the role of Count Dracula. The radio play utilized innovative sound effects and atmospheric storytelling to create a captivating audio experience for the listeners. The "Mercury Theater" production of "Dracula" is particularly notable for its realistic and compelling portrayal of the vampire, adding to the enduring popularity of the story.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 3

"Don Quixote" is a renowned novel written by Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. First published in two parts in 1605 and 1615, it is considered one of the greatest works of literature in the Spanish language and a landmark in world literature. The story follows the adventures of a nobleman named Alonso Quixano, who loses his sanity after reading too many chivalry novels. He renames himself Don Quixote and sets off on a quest to revive chivalry, right wrongs, and protect the innocent. Accompanied by his loyal and practical-minded squire, Sancho Panza, Don Quixote embarks on a series of misadventures that blur the line between reality and his delusional imagination.

The radio presentation of "Don Quixote" through the "NBC University Theater" took place on April 15, 1950. This radio series was known for its adaptations of classic literary works, bringing them to life through dramatic performances. The episode featured an adaptation of the iconic novel, allowing listeners to experience the tale of Don Quixote's imaginative and often humorous escapades. While radio presentations cannot capture the visual aspects of the story, they relied on powerful performances and sound effects to transport audiences into the world of Don Quixote. The radio adaptation aimed to capture the spirit and essence of the novel, bringing Cervantes' enduring characters and their timeless adventures to a wider audience.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 2

"It's a Wonderful Life" is a beloved American film released in 1946 and directed by Frank Capra. The screenplay for the film was written by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, and Frank Capra, based on the short story "The Greatest Gift" by Philip Van Doren Stern. While "It's a Wonderful Life" originated as a film, I can provide information on its plot and the radio presentation through the "Lux Radio Theater."

The story revolves around George Bailey, played by James Stewart, a kind-hearted and selfless man who has always put the needs of others before his own dreams. As he faces a crisis on Christmas Eve, George contemplates suicide, believing that the world would be better off without him. However, an angel named Clarence intervenes and shows George what life would have been like if he had never existed. Through this eye-opening experience, George gains a renewed sense of purpose and realizes the true value of his life and the impact he has had on others.

The Lux Radio Theater presented a radio adaptation of "It's a Wonderful Life" on March 10, 1947. The radio play featured James Stewart reprising his role as George Bailey and Donna Reed reprising her role as Mary Hatch. The radio adaptation aimed to bring the heartwarming and inspiring story to a wider audience through the power of audio storytelling. The Lux Radio Theater was known for its high-quality adaptations of popular films, and the radio presentation of "It's a Wonderful Life" allowed listeners to experience the timeless message of the film in a different format.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 1

Casablanca it is a classic film released in 1942. The screenplay for the film was written by Julius J. Epstein, Philip G. Epstein, and Howard Koch, based on the unproduced stage play "Everybody Comes to Rick's" by Murray Burnett and Joan Alison.

"Casablanca" is set during World War II and takes place in the city of Casablanca, Morocco, which is under the control of Vichy France. The story follows Rick Blaine, a cynical American expatriate and owner of a nightclub called "Rick's Café Américain." Rick's life takes a turn when his former lover, Ilsa Lund, walks into his club with her husband, resistance leader Victor Laszlo. Rick and Ilsa's complicated past is revealed, and the film explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the moral dilemmas faced during wartime.

The Lux Radio Theater adapted "Casablanca" into a radio play on March 21, 1943. The episode starred Humphrey Bogart reprising his role as Rick Blaine and Ingrid Bergman reprising her role as Ilsa Lund. The radio adaptation aimed to bring the beloved film to radio audiences, capturing the romance and drama of the original story. The Lux Radio Theater was known for its high-quality adaptations of popular films, and the radio presentation of "Casablanca" allowed listeners to experience the iconic dialogue and performances in an audio format.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 2 Episode 26

An alcoholic burlesque performer, Skid Brown, cannot handle success. His girlfriend, Bonny, struggles with him leaving and being alone.

Al Jolson sings three songs in this presentation: "Toot, Toot, Tootsie," "Is It True What They Say About Dixie?" and "A Pretty Girl Is Like a Melody."

The "Lux Radio Theater" was a popular radio program that aired from 1934 to 1955, presenting adaptations of various films and plays. It featured notable actors and actresses performing in radio versions of well-known works.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 2 Episode 25

"A Star is Born" is a novel written by American author William A. Wellman and Robert Carson. First published in 1937, it tells the story of a young woman's rise to fame in Hollywood and the struggles she faces as her career blossoms while her husband's career begins to decline.

The plot revolves around Esther Blodgett, a talented but unknown singer with dreams of making it big in the entertainment industry. She meets the famous and troubled actor Norman Maine, who becomes infatuated with her talent and helps her launch her career. As Esther gains recognition and achieves success under the stage name Vicki Lester, Norman's career takes a downward spiral due to his alcoholism and personal demons.

The novel explores the themes of love, ambition, and the price of fame. It delves into the challenges faced by artists in the competitive world of show business, as well as the sacrifices and compromises required to achieve success. Esther's journey is a poignant portrayal of the highs and lows of stardom, while Norman's struggles highlight the dark side of celebrity and the toll it can take on one's personal life.

The radio presentation of "A Star is Born" through the "Academy Award Theater" occurred on November 30, 1946. It was adapted into a radio play and featured renowned actors and actresses of the time, such as Janet Gaynor and Fredric March, reprising their roles from the 1937 film adaptation. The radio presentation aimed to bring the story to a wider audience through the medium of radio, allowing listeners to experience the drama and emotions of the original story.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 2 Episode 24

"Peter Pan" is a beloved children's novel written by Scottish author J.M. Barrie. First published as a play in 1904, it was later adapted into a novel titled "Peter and Wendy" in 1911. The story follows the adventures of Peter Pan, a mischievous boy who never grows up, and his encounters with the Darling children - Wendy, John, and Michael.

The novel begins in the Darling household, where Peter Pan enters the children's lives by flying through their bedroom window in search of his lost shadow. Impressed by Peter's tales of Neverland, a magical island filled with pirates, mermaids, and fairies, the Darling children eagerly join him on a journey to this enchanted realm.

In Neverland, they encounter numerous adventures, including battles with Captain Hook, the leader of a band of pirates, and his loyal sidekick, Mr. Smee. Peter Pan's arch-nemesis, Captain Hook, is determined to seek revenge on Peter for cutting off his hand and feeding it to a crocodile, who now constantly pursues him in hopes of devouring the rest of him.

The story explores themes of imagination, the loss of childhood innocence, and the desire for eternal youth. It highlights the importance of dreams, friendship, and the power of belief. Ultimately, the Darling children must decide whether to return home to their family or remain in Neverland with Peter Pan.

The "Lux Radio Theater," the program was a popular radio series that aired from 1934 to 1955. It featured adaptations of famous films and literary works.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 2 Episode 23

"The Phantom of the Opera" is a Gothic novel written by French author Gaston Leroux. First published in 1910, the story has captivated readers worldwide with its blend of romance, mystery, and suspense. It tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the Paris Opera House.

The novel centers around Christine Daaé, a young and talented singer who becomes the object of the Phantom's obsession. As Christine rises to fame, she attracts the attention of both the handsome Viscount Raoul de Chagny and the enigmatic Phantom. Torn between the two men, Christine finds herself drawn to the Phantom's musical talents and mysterious allure.

As the Phantom's actions grow more desperate and dangerous, the story delves into themes of love, passion, and the destructive power of obsession. The catacombs beneath the Opera House become the setting for a dramatic confrontation, where secrets are revealed, and lives hang in the balance.

"The Phantom of the Opera" has been widely adapted in various forms, including stage musicals, films, and radio productions.

The "Lux Radio Theater" was a popular radio series that aired from 1934 to 1955. It featured adaptations of famous films and literary works.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com