South Carolina Public Radio premieres new audio drama series, Shortwave Kitsch Radio

South Carolina Public Radio (SC Public Radio) is pleased to announce the premiere of Shortwave Kitsch Radio, an original audio drama series that combines history with creative storytelling. The series will broadcast on Oct. 4 at 8 p.m., with new episodes airing in 2026 on Jan. 17, April 4 and June 6.

Two live tapings of Shortwave Kitsch Radio were held at The Citadel’s Capers Hall in Charleston earlier in 2025. Both of those performances will be broadcast on SC Public Radio, giving listeners the chance to experience the energy and artistry of the productions. An additional live taping is planned for Dec. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at The Citadel’s Capers Hall in Charleston, continuing the series’ dynamic connection with live audiences. More information can be found on the SC Public Radio website.

Shortwave Kitsch Radio is a revival of the classic radio play format, reimagined for today’s audiences. Produced entirely in South Carolina, the series is developed with the help of scholars and experts to ensure historical accuracy, while also embracing imagination to bring the past vividly to life. Each episode is locally written and performed, featuring original music, talented voice actors and carefully crafted scripts. Alongside the drama, listeners are also treated to performances from South Carolina musicians, adding a distinctly local sound to the storytelling.

The premiere episode on Oct. 4 will introduce audiences to “Hollywood Hunters,” a fast-paced tale of paranormal talent agents navigating the backlots of 1930s Hollywood, complete with a comedic spin on South Carolina history and tongue-in-cheek breaks.

Other stories that will be the focus of future episodes span a variety of genres, time periods and tones— ranging from high-flying adventures with a globe-trotting physician and a stubborn aeronaut, to tales of small-town resistance where unlikely townsfolk band together to preserve their community against the forces of expansion. Listeners will also journey into the dangerous shadows of World War II espionage, where a double agent may hold the key to confronting an otherworldly threat.

Shortwave Kitsch Radio offers an immersive and thought-provoking storytelling experience designed to connect audiences with both history and imagination. The series is led by a creative team with roots in South Carolina’s arts community. Producers and founders Maddie Casto, Kristen N. Granet, Brandon L. Joyner and Brooke Rash bring together backgrounds in theater, writing, performance and production to shape the stories and performances. Musical direction is provided by pianist and accompanist Joanna Norwood, with sound design and engineering from Charleston-based producer Matt Ciclon. Composer and producer Pedro Toro adds original scoring and arrangements.

The program is presented with support from the ETV Endowment of South Carolina. For more information about the series and broadcast details, visit the SC Public Radio website. Shortwave Kitsch Radio can be heard on-demand on the SC Public Radio website, the SCETV YouTube channel and the SCETV App.

“Shortwave Kitsch Radio exemplifies the kind of creative, educational programming that speaks to the heart of our mission. By combining history, performance and music, this series invites listeners into a rich, immersive experience that celebrates South Carolina’s cultural legacy and sparks deeper conversations about our past and present.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell

“This project is a true collaboration between artists, musicians and our production team. Every detail, from historical research to sound design, has been thoughtfully crafted to create an experience that resonates with today’s audiences. We’re proud to bring a fresh approach to radio drama through a uniquely South Carolinian lens.” –SCETV Senior Director of Audio and Digital Operations Tabitha Safdi

“Shortwave Kitsch Radio doesn’t just recount history; it immerses you in it! The live performances are an mix of original stories, captivating music and hilarious sketches that transport you straight to the 1940s. You’ll feel like part of the action as we celebrate the magic of radio drama together.” –SCETV Director of Radio Sean Birch

FAST FACTS

• Shortwave Kitsch Radio, an original audio drama series that combines history with creative storytelling, premieres on Oct. 4 at 8 p.m.
• Additional episodes will air on Jan. 17, April 4 and June 6, 2026.
• Produced entirely in South Carolina, Shortwave Kitsch Radio is a revival of the classic radio play format, reimagined for today’s audiences.
• Shortwave Kitsch Radio can be heard on-demand on the SC Public Radio website, the SCETV YouTube channel and the SCETV App.

About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state’s public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Downing of a Flag and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.