...

w.fox21online.com/smalltowns By Nicolette Helling & photojournalist Jeff Ernewein, FOX 21 News INTERNATIONAL FALLS - It's an art form that all but disappeared in the 1950's and `60's. But in International Falls, they're bringing back radio theatre. On a cool summer evening near the U.S.-Canada border, Northlanders gather at a park to hear something rare. "I have never seen these before and it sounded good in the paper. So, I thought I better come and see it!" said Bernadine Reierson of International Falls. It's radio drama and it's happening in International Falls. "This is such a unique town... And people know about the falls," said Jeff Adams. Adams moved to International Falls with his family five years ago. Ever since, his focus has been the Icebox Radio Theatre. "Bringing the Northland's stories to the world!" said Adams. Adam's original and award winning stories are inspired by his unique surroundings. "Within three weeks we did a comedy about ice fishing and we did a horror story about ice fishing," said Adams. Adams says he wants his stories to resonate with his International Falls audience. But what broadcasts there, doesn't just stay there. "I like the fact that we can be here, in International Falls, we can create our art and we can still present it to a global audience," said Adams. The Icebox Radio Theatre broadcasts live during performances and about 2,000 people download their podcasts every month. In the age of rapidly advancing technology, it seems there are still plenty of people who love radio. "I grew up with radio," said Dave Erwin of Fort Frances, Ontario. "Living up here in hinterland there wasn't much TV anyway." Erwin travels across the border to perform with the Icebox Radio Theatre. "I'm the director of sound effects for the theatre. I've been doing that for a couple years. And I look after all this stuff on the table and make sure that things happen when they should," said Erwin. The words are the same, but for everyone watching and listening to the show live, Adams' stories are taking on a life of their own. That's the magic of radio. "I love it. I've been to a few of them before so, I enjoy it," said Tricia Brennard of International Falls. It's a little different than sitting on the couch in front of the TV. But for this International Falls audience, spending the night listening to stories written about their small town might be better than a night at home. Information on live shows, broadcasts and downloadable podcasts are available at www.iceboxradio.org.