A ghostly adventure befalls Fountains residents in latest radio production

A ghostly adventure befalls Fountains residents in latest radio production

The Fountains Radio Workshop performed their new radio play, “Strange Encounter,” for an enthusiastic audience of residents and visitors on Friday, May 2.

Photo by Leila Hawken

MILLBROOK — Building on the success of their first performance in August 2024, The Fountains Radio Workshop rolled out another mystery to capture the imagination and provide a few laughs at their latest production on Friday, May 2.

“Imagine the setting,” playwright, project director and Fountains resident Marge Wardrop told the over-capacity audience, introducing the radio play titled “Strange Encounter.” The performance was interrupted periodically by authentic old-time radio commercials, sparking nods of recognition throughout the audience.

This workshop performance added improvements such as live piano interludes by Lucy Bonaquist, computer sound work by Janet Robinson, and three people on live sound effects, Shelia Attlesey, Judy Buttinger and Pat Carr.

The six scenes of plot involve about 12 Fountains residents returning in a Fountains bus from an Albany conference on aging when a surprise snowstorm and mechanical failure interrupt their trip. The onset of chill in the bus and the spotting of a distant isolated farmhouse inspires them to hike through the snow to be taken in by an accommodating, although spooky, old Dutch farmer who offers shelter in his equally spooky farmhouse. They encounter the ghostly presence of an ancestor bemoaning the past loss of a piece of family jewelry that happens to be hanging around the neck of one of the Fountains visitors, a fancier of antique jewelry.

Undaunted by the spookiness of their situation, the Fountains residents accept the farmer’s offer of cider drinks and promptly doze off. Refreshed by their naps, they welcome the arrival of the State Police who have brought a luxury bus to see them home to The Fountains. Before leaving, the jewelry is generously returned to the ghostly ancestor, clearing the way for the state trooper to let everyone know that there was no house there at all, or any Dutch farmer, or anything.

Judging from the hearty audience approval, cheers and applause, The Fountains Radio Workshop will likely be encouraged to create more radio adventures for residents and visitors.

Latest News

‘Hidden Treasures of the Hudson Valley:’ North East Historical Society Hosts Annual Meeting

Anthony Musso discusses his book “Hidden Treasures of the Hudson Valley” at the North East Historical Society’s annual meeting on Saturday, Nov. 15. The book centers on historical sites across the region with rich backgrounds and low ticket-prices for maximum accessbility.

Photo by Aly Morrissey

MILLERTON — With his signature Brooklyn accent, sense of humor and wealth of knowledge, author and historian Anthony “Tony” Musso brought American Revolution history to life at the NorthEast-Millerton Library Annex in partnership with the North East Historical Society.

The talk marked Musso’s first speaking engagement at the Annex and coincided with the historical society’s annual meeting.

Keep ReadingShow less
Students curate Katro Storm portraits at HVRHS

“Once Upon a Time in America” features ten portraits by artist Katro Storm.

Natalia Zukerman

The Kearcher-Monsell Gallery at Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village is once again host to a wonderful student-curated exhibition. “Once Upon a Time in America,” ten portraits by New Haven artist Katro Storm, opened on Nov. 20 and will run through the end of the year.

“This is our first show of the year,” said senior student Alex Wilbur, the current head intern who oversees the student-run gallery. “I inherited the position last year from Elinor Wolgemuth. It’s been really amazing to take charge and see this through.”

Keep ReadingShow less
Mini horses, big impact: animal learning center opens in Sheffield

Le Petit Ranch offers animal-assisted therapy and learning programs for children and seniors in Sheffield.

Marjorie Borreda

Le Petit Ranch, a nonprofit offering animal-assisted therapy and learning programs, opened in April at 147 Bears Den Road in Sheffield. Founded by Marjorie Borreda, the center provides programs for children, families and seniors using miniature horses, rescued greyhounds, guinea pigs and chickens.

Borreda, who moved to Sheffield with her husband, Mitch Moulton, and their two children to be closer to his family, has transformed her longtime love of animals into her career. She completed certifications in animal-assisted therapy and coaching in 2023, along with coursework in psychiatry, psychology, literacy and veterinary skills.

Keep ReadingShow less