A Lifeline Theatre of the Mind in 2021

News reports of the COVID-19 pandemic hurting the performing arts have become commonplace. While some have adapted to audio, it’s not by choice for so many in the theatre industry. Lifeline Theatre is combining the best of both the art and the business of live theatre in audio form.

Background and Awards of Lifeline Theatre

Located in Chicago, Lifeline Theatre found its current home in 1985 when 5 Northwestern University Graduates decided to take a Commonwealth Edison Substation and turn it into a venue in Rogers Park. 3 years earlier and Lifeline Theatre was founded.

The companies first three shows — “Split,” “The Rimers of Eldritch” and “Loved” ran from 1983 to 1984. Since then the company has won awards such as the Non-Equity Joseph Jefferson award every year except for their 1990-91 season. Their award-winning run started in 1986 and continued receiving the award off and on until 2006. The record of awards ends there, but the theatre continued to captivate audiences with such productions as literary classics like “A Tale of Two Cities” and “Pride and Prejudice.” They even did a “Lord of the Rings” adaptation, split into 3 shows, in the late 90s and early 2000s. Their rendition of “The Return of the King” made its debut the same year “The Fellowship of the Ring” movie released in theaters.

Lifeline Theatre Now

From March 12-April 16, Lifeline Theatre will stream an audio drama version of their 2016 stage production of a gender-swapped Sherlock Holmes. Titled “Miss Holmes”, the 6-episode audio experience will release weekly on the theatre company’s website on Friday. A two-week grace period for those who like to binge listen will be available until April 30. Those who are already or become Lifeline members at the 60 dollar level can access the show beyond that deadline.

New Audible Fiction; Visual Illusion Coming Soon?

That’s a fact, not a question. I’m currently putting the finishing touches on the next episode of Audible Fiction; Visual Illusion (AF; VI) and will plan on releasing it on March 14 or March 21. For those who aren’t aware, AF; VI is a show where I moderate a discussion of guests from both the realm of audio drama and podcast fiction, and visual storytelling like movies and television. I’m amazed how topical the episode on Black Panther and Bronzeville still is, despite releasing almost 2 years ago. Theatre lovers are gonna love this next episode. Don’t delope your shot or forget, new AF; VI episodes are dropping on Audio Drama News and Interviews.