Michael Williams, Annette Dix, Marc Kay and Stephen Comey
As the lights dim, the actors take their places and a mix of voices fills the air. Words, tone and imagination take over transporting the audience to a world steeped in nostalgia of classic radio-style plays.
This is the world of Radio Active Live (RAL) works, a volunteer-run theatre company that has been delighting audiences with their live radio-style plays for more than fourteen years at The Hills Lodge in Castle Hill.
Each year, RAL presents a mix of classic mysteries, comedies and original works. This November, the lineup includes ‘Butter in a Lordly Dish by Agatha Christie’, ‘The Train at Platform 4’ along with a selection of short sketches and live letters – promising audiences a rare treat for the senses.
RAL was born from a passion for storytelling — stories that come alive through sound and imagination. RAL’s troupe consists of passionate community performers, each bringing professional and personal flair to their craft. Together, they share one goal – to recreate the golden age of radio with warmth, precision and humour.
“Our shows are all about voice, sound and atmosphere,” says RAL’S current president Mary Dennison. “Audiences are often amazed by how vividly they can picture each scene — even though there’s no set, no props, just sound and storytelling,” she explains.
Each RAL show offers an afternoon of fun and entertainment. Audiences enjoy two hours of entertainment, complete with a delicious high tea served during the break – it has become a favourite event for many theatre lovers, seniors’ groups and social clubs across the Hills to Hawkesbury region.
What makes Radio Active Live special is the strong sense of community that surrounds every show. The performances are more than theatre — they’re social gatherings and perfect setting for conversation and connection. In essence, RAL, in partnership with The Hills Lodge – combines theatre with the warmth of community.
Each performance is carefully put together – the shows use live sound effects, old-style music and group voice acting to capture the spirit of vintage radio with a modern touch.
Interestingly, RAL also takes its shows on the road, performing at retirement villages and community venues when invited. These visits bring joy to the audience, who might not otherwise experience live theatre.
Teamwork and passion have helped RAL thrive. Every member here volunteers their time and it’s their shared love of performing that keeps the group alive.
Radio Active Live performs quarterly at The Hills Lodge Boutique Hotel, Castle Hill. Tickets are $35 per person, which includes both the show and a full high tea. Performances run from 3 pm to 5 pm, and group bookings are welcome.
For upcoming performance details, cast biographies and past show archives, visit radioactive-live.com
For bookings, please email [email protected]
