Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (Model); The Radio Play

Period 7: Let's listen to the first episode of the radio play The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams. Please note that this script is written in a publishing format--not the approved or standard radio script format. See handout.

RADIO SCRIPT PROJECT

• We will be writing our own radio play scripts. Here are a few rules/guidelines:
• You may work alone or with a partner. 
• If you work with a partner, please use google docs (and share privileges with your partner) so that both authors can work on the script at the same time.
• Your script episode should be between 6-10 pages, formatted in proper radio script format. 
• Your script should include a title page and cast list (these pages do not count as part of your required 6-10 page length!) You may put your cast list on the same page as your title.
• Your script idea can be taken from an already published source (or from your own story drafts, adapted for a radio show). You may, of course, make up a new original story.
• You may write in any genre. Popular genres include drama, comedy, science fiction/fantasy, romance, or children's programming (which is usually fantasy). 
• Rely on SX (sound effects). Consider your scenes to include ambient noise or sound cues that signal to the listener as to where the scene takes place (setting), or what action is happening during the dialogue of your characters (plot). 
• Consult the handout scripts I gave you and that we have heard in class for ideas, formatting ("Stardust" for example), or select one of the play scripts from the BBC as further models/examples. See link here. You can change the genre/format at the drop down box on the webpage.
• Brainstorm some ideas first. You may find it helpful to outline or sketch your idea first. Write a 1-sentence premise (what is the play or episode going to be about?) My radio play/episode is about...

Please look at the handout concerning Radio Script format. You will be expected to format your script in this manner. It is similar to the play script format we will use next year for the Playwriting course.

Use the remaining time in the lab to brainstorm an idea, and begin writing your radio plays. This project is not due yet (it will be completed during MP3).

I will print out progress reports for you to check your grades for MP2. The marking period ends this Friday for this class.

HOMEWORK: Please read Jess O'Callaghan's article: "Podcast Nerds Rejoice: Radio Plays Are Making a Comeback"
Please read this linked article. Then answer the 3 questions (turn these in next class).

1. Why does how we listen to radio/podcasts matter according to O'Callaghan?
2. What kinds of podcasts are "out there"?
3. How are new wave radio plays distinguishing themselves from the old ones? (Abbott & Costello or Lucille Fletcher's Hitchhiker, for example.)

Finally, please turn in any missing work by Friday as well. This is the last day to turn in missing or late work for the marking period.