Performance of Heroes on the Air in support of the RCAF’s 100th anniversary set for this Sunday at Hugh’s Room on Broadview Avenue

By JESSICA SHACKLETON

East Toronto community members are invited to Heroes on the Air, a play commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) that takes audiences into the world of 1940s radio.

In a world before television and the internet, families would gather by the radio to hear news and weekly stories.

“What we’re doing is showing what’s happening behind that glowing light,” said Sara Moyle, who wrote the production.

The play features five actors portraying more than 30 RCAF heroes with live sound effects and music. It is hosted by two-time JUNO Award nominee and Canadian Radio Music Award (CRMA) winner Jason Wilson.

“As a playwright, telling the true stories of heroes in the RCAF, I wanted to create a time capsule experience for the audience, bringing them back to the golden age of radio,” said Moyle in a statement to Beach Metro Community News.

“You are no longer reading about someone; instead, their story is animated in your ear. It’s live with sound. You’re in the moment, you’re experiencing it, you’re feeling it. It brings a different sensitivity to the listener and humanizes the experience of the heroes.”

The RCAF Foundation is a charitable organization that supports the RCAF. They are not directly associated with the RCAF, but their goals are to promote remembrance and aerospace history and foster the future of Canadian aviation.

Jeremy Diamond, CEO of the RCAF Foundation, explained why people should attend Heroes on the Air.

“I am always looking for new and interesting ways to tell Canadian stories and engage new audiences of all ages. Heroes on the Air is a new and old way of storytelling, and we know the audience will learn something new, while being entertained by our amazing cast,” said Diamond in a statement.

The performance takes place at Hugh’s Room at 296 Broadview Ave. on Sunday, Jan. 25 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and proceeds go towards the RCAF Foundation.

For more information about Heroes on the Air, please visit https://rcaffoundation.ca/heroes-on-the-air-a-live-radio-experience