Third Annual "Lend Me An Ear!" a Success!

Atlanta’s AFTRA, SAG and AEA members teamed up once more to present nostalgic recreations of classic programs from the Golden Age of Radio in the 3rd Annual “Lend Me An Ear!” on Monday, November 13, 2006 at the New American Shakespeare Tavern. The Tavern is normally home to productions of the Bard and other classical plays, but for one pre-holiday night the ghosts of radio past appear to entertain and educate contemporary audiences of all ages with a fun-filled show for a worthy cause.




                                                   Cast of the Third Annual Atlanta AFTRA, SAG, AEA "Lend Me An Ear!"


This year's "LMAE!" was again a fundraiser for the Atlanta Community Food Bank and over $1100 was raised in donations. That translated into $7700 when you consider that every $1 they receive is like $7 in buying power for them. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, and Christmas only a month away, it was the perfect time to assist the ACFB. We were another rousing success and our audiences love to let their imaginations soar as we conjure up those Old Time Radio spirits!

This year the theme for the event was mystery, replete with dramatic and comedic intrigue- “An Evening’s Chill." The lineup, complete with live sound effects, included: “Evening Primrose” from the radio show “Escape!”, “Jack Armstrong, the All-American Boy” (with a special appearance by Washington, DC's own Sheldon Smith doing the Wheaties commercials), “My Favorite Husband," an early Lucille Ball vehicle, and the famous tour de force “Sorry, Wrong Number," originally heard on the program “Suspense!” with Agnes Moorehead. The cast and crew included 30 members of the entertainment unions. Many thanks to all the participants, our staff and the behind-the-scene volunteers who made this year's "Lend Me An Ear!" such a success.

We are also grateful to Sheldon Smith for taking time out of his busy schedule to conduct his seminar on "How to Turn a Non-Union Offer Into a Union Job," which was held just prior to "LMAE!" It was extremely informative, proactive and a great boon to our members.

Barry Stoltze
Atlanta AFTRA President
Co-producer of "LMAE!3"