RHRT S2 E2: Savior Shrink

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Psychiatrist Dr. Horatio meets a new patient, Chris, who surprises him with his abilities of perception.

Directed by Jack Baumgardner

Sound Engineering by Dave Robison

Major Arcana Writing Team: Laura Arbury, Jack Baumgardner, Jill Garroway, Kate Hawthorne, Brian Hughes, Dave Robison, Teri Robison, Morgan Taylor, Roy Thompson, Carol Van Natta, Bob Weber

Cast

Naomi Benell as Carla

Nathaniel Cron as Chris

Tym Lynch as John

Jon Wilkinson as Zach

Judith Allen as The Narrator

Major Arcana is a collection of original short stories inspired by the archetypal themes and concepts of the mystical Tarot. Each of the 12 full-cast audio dramas gathered in this collection is a unique tale woven from the joys and challenges we all face on our journey of life. Drawing together the brightest and darkest threads of our awareness, the stories of Major Arcana create a rich and engaging audio experience.

Major Arcana is presented by Rabbit Hole Radio Theatre, a co-production of Loudspeaker and OpenStage Theatre & Company. Hear past seasons and learn more at https://rabbitholeradio.org.

Loudspeaker™ is an LGBTQIA-led, non-profit listener-supported public radio service and production studio devoted to amplifying the voices, stories, and artistic expressions of underserved communities. Loudspeaker's mission is to make the world a better place by ensuring that everyone can be heard. Learn more at https://www.loudspeaker.org.

RHRT S2 E1: The Chords of Creation

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Struggling musician Irvin Masters receives a package from his aunt Thalia that may change his reality as he knows it.

Directed by Toni Alexander

Sound Engineering by Emarit Ranu

Major Arcana Writing Team: Laura Arbury, Jack Baumgardner, Jill Garroway, Kate Hawthorne, Brian Hughes, Dave Robison, Teri Robison, Morgan Taylor, Roy Thompson, Carol Van Natta, Bob Weber

Cast

Linda Adam-Hall as Abby Roades

Ailie Holland as Kelly and Amy

Heath Howes as Irvin

Matthew Korda as Michaels

Sam Piccone as Gabe Vine

Becky Weaver as Thalia

Gena as Zerlan

Judith Allen as The Narrator

Major Arcana is a collection of original short stories inspired by the archetypal themes and concepts of the mystical Tarot. Each of the 12 full-cast audio dramas gathered in this collection is a unique tale woven from the joys and challenges we all face on our journey of life. Drawing together the brightest and darkest threads of our awareness, the stories of Major Arcana create a rich and engaging audio experience.

Major Arcana is presented by Rabbit Hole Radio Theatre, a co-production of Loudspeaker and OpenStage Theatre & Company. Hear past seasons and learn more at https://rabbitholeradio.org.

Loudspeaker™ is an LGBTQIA-led, non-profit listener-supported public radio service and production studio devoted to amplifying the voices, stories, and artistic expressions of underserved communities. Loudspeaker's mission is to make the world a better place by ensuring that everyone can be heard. Learn more at https://www.loudspeaker.org.

Portals Chapter 12: Endgame (Season Finale)

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:12:00 -0600

In the thrilling finale of "Portals," Allison, Orlando, and their companions face the ultimate showdown with Solomon Keys, who seeks to unleash the destructive power of the negation matrix upon all realities. With the guidance of Ambrose Royce, Allison learns that the key to stopping the matrix lies in destroying the portals that connect the worlds. Despite the risks, Allison bravely ventures into the rift to close off the portals, ultimately separating the realities and containing the matrix within a single realm.

As the portals are destroyed, Allison confronts the heartbreaking choice between saving all realities and rescuing Orlando, who is at risk of being consumed by the matrix's power. In a moment of self-realization and acceptance of her role as the draconis, Allison closes the portals, sealing the matrix but also potentially sacrificing Orlando in the process.

In the aftermath, reality is saved, but Orlando is lost, leaving Allison and her companions to grapple with the consequences of their actions. Meanwhile, Ambrose Royce reveals his true intentions to regain control over the portals and establish his dominion over all creation. With the stage set for a new order to rise, Allison and her allies must face the challenges ahead, knowing that the battle for the fate of the multiverse is far from over.

Portals Chapter 11: Revelations

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:11:00 -0600

Allison confronts Solomon Keys, who reveals his grand plan to use her to unleash a negation matrix that would destroy all realities. Kees believes he is on a divine mission to create a new Eden by wiping out the corruption of the universe. He recounts his centuries-long journey, including his encounter with a divine source of creation. However, Allison refuses to cooperate, realizing the destructive consequences of Keys' plan.

Meanwhile, Mikayla, manipulated by Keys, attempts to kill Allison but ultimately chooses to spare her. Despite Mikayla's apology, Allison decides to end their friendship, recognizing that Mikayla's actions have been harmful. The Tenek' Soor and Shadow Guards clash, resulting in casualties on both sides. Uncle Max reappears, revealing the imminent danger posed by Keys' plan.

With time running out, the group realizes they need Ambrose Royce's expertise in navigating realities to stop Kees. Despite the risks, they plan to seek out Royce for help in thwarting Keys' destructive scheme. As tensions rise and the stakes grow higher, Allison and her allies must act quickly to prevent the catastrophic consequences of Keys' actions.

Portals Chapter 10: Where All Roads Lead

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:10:00 -0600

As Elizabeth mourns her late husband Abraham, Orlando Waters comforts her while also grappling with his own concerns about Allyson's whereabouts. Meanwhile, Mikayla reveals her allegiance to the Tenexor, sparking a confrontation with Allyson over their conflicting ideologies. Ambrose Royce and Father Keyes discuss their interests in Allyson, hinting at larger cosmic forces at play.

As the episode unfolds, Allyson finds herself in a mysterious place, confronted by a spectral figure known as "the Lady." Their conversation delves into philosophical questions about identity and destiny, challenging Allyson to confront her true self and make a choice about her path forward. Meanwhile, Orlando's unique abilities come into play as he grapples with a chaotic force threatening to consume reality, ultimately finding strength through his love for Allyson.

The episode concludes with Allyson facing a series of tests, each revealing deeper truths about herself and her journey. Through these trials, she begins to uncover layers of deception and manipulation, ultimately confronting Father Keyes about his true intentions. As the pieces of the puzzle start to come together, Allyson's path forward becomes clearer, setting the stage for future revelations and challenges in the ongoing battle between cosmic forces.

Portals Chapter 9: Parting Ways

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:09:00 -0600

The community gathers for the funeral of Abraham Crow, where Elizabeth Crow mourns her late husband. Orlando Waters, a friend of the family, offers condolences but is aware of the strained relationship between Abraham and his daughter, Allyson. Elizabeth confides in Orlando about Allyson's true parentage, revealing that Max, not Abraham, is Allyson's biological father.

Allyson arrives at the funeral and shares a tender moment with her father's grave, only to witness his sudden death from a stab wound. In his final moments, Abraham confesses to Allyson that he made a deal with Ambrose Royce, exchanging Max's death for Allyson's Riftwalking abilities. Shocked and heartbroken, Allyson grapples with her father's betrayal and struggles to find forgiveness.

Meanwhile, Mikayla, Allyson's friend, reveals to Roon, a mystical figure, her allegiance to the Tenexor, a group opposed to Riftwalkers. Mikayla's beliefs clash with Allyson's, leading to a heated confrontation where Mikayla defends her choices, claiming to have found purpose with the Tenexor. The rift between them deepens as they face each other's conflicting ideologies.

Portals Chapter 8: Soul Music

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:08:00 -0600

Tensions simmer as Allison contends with her father's unexpected appearance. Abraham Crow, seeking reconciliation, attempts to mend their fractured relationship, but Allison rebuffs his efforts, unwilling to forgive the pain he's caused her and her mother. Meanwhile, Orlando grapples with nerves before his performance, finding solace in the unexpected support of Father Keyes, who offers words of encouragement amid the bustling theater.

As the concert commences, the atmosphere is electrifying, with Orlando's music captivating the audience. However, amidst the jubilation, a sinister force emerges in the form of a negation matrix, threatening to unravel reality itself. Orlando, unknowingly drawing upon his mysterious abilities, neutralizes the danger with his music, saving those around him from destruction. Yet, the incident leaves everyone shaken, grappling with the implications of what occurred and the newfound awareness of Orlando's extraordinary capabilities.

In the aftermath, Abraham confronts the enigmatic Caliban, seeking answers about the information concerning Allison. Their tense exchange ends in violence, with Abraham fatally wounded. As Allison arrives, she witnesses her father's last moments, setting the stage for further turmoil and revelations in the ongoing battle against the forces manipulating their lives. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, bonds are tested, and the true extent of each character's strength and resilience is brought to light, foreshadowing the challenges yet to come in their intertwined destinies.

Portals Chapter 7: Love and War

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:07:00 -0600

The narrative delves into the complexities of familial relationships and the consequences of past actions. Allie's turmoil is at the forefront as she grapples with the revelation about her true paternity, sparking a confrontation with her father and reshaping her understanding of her identity. Meanwhile, Colin and Orlando navigate their plans for a concert, providing a contrast to the intense personal drama unfolding within Allie's family.

The episode also delves into the larger narrative arc surrounding Mr. Royce and the Temple of New Eden. A missive from an operative within the temple hints at significant developments regarding the Tenek' Soor rift shard and the potential reconstruction of the negation matrix, introducing elements of intrigue and mystery that deepen the overarching plot. Furthermore, Michaela's conversation with Winter sheds light on the devastating consequences of recent events, highlighting the interconnectedness of characters and the far-reaching implications of their actions.

Amidst the turmoil and uncertainty, moments of intimacy and connection emerge between characters. Allie finds solace in Orlando's arms, reaffirming their bond and providing a sense of stability amidst the chaos. These moments of love and support amidst the turmoil underscore the resilience of the characters as they navigate through personal and existential challenges, setting the stage for further exploration of their journeys in future episodes.

Portals Chapter 6: Friends and Enemies

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:06:00 -0600

Tensions rise as Allison Drake (Allie) and her allies face off against the Ten´ek Soor, a hostile group seeking to unleash chaos through the rifts. Captured by the Ten´ek Soor, Mikayla finds herself in a precarious situation, but her resilience and determination shine through as she confronts their leader, Winter, and ultimately negotiates a temporary truce to spare her friends.

Meanwhile, Allie and her companions seek help from Father Keys, a powerful figure in New Eden, to rescue Mikayla. Despite the risks involved, Father Keys agrees to aid them, leading to a tense standoff between the Shadow Guard and the Ten´ek Soor. As the situation escalates, Mikayla's loyalty and bravery are put to the test, culminating in a daring rescue mission that leaves her physically battered but emotionally stronger.

Amidst the action, personal conflicts and uncertainties simmer, particularly between Allie and Mikayla, hinting at deeper rifts within their friendship. As they navigate the complex dynamics of trust and allegiance, the stage is set for further revelations and challenges in the ongoing struggle against the forces threatening the fabric of reality.

Portals Chapter 5: Dopplegangers

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:05:00 -0600

Chaos ensues as multiple realities overlap due to a rift echo, causing various versions of Allison, Orlando, and Mikayla to appear. Confusion reigns as they try to understand the situation, with Barnaby explaining the phenomenon and its potential consequences. Meanwhile, Briggs confronts Caliban about his allegiance to Royce and the chaos caused by the malfunctioning portals. The situation escalates when Ten´ek Soors enter the scene, threatening the safety of everyone involved. As Allison attempts to rectify the situation, Makayla gets trapped in the rift with the Ten´ek Soor, leaving Allison devastated and blaming herself for the outcome.

Despite the efforts of the portal mechanics to fix the portals, Makayla's fate remains uncertain, leaving Allison and her companions in distress.

Portals Chapter 4: Shadows, Ghouls, and Other Guests

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:04:00 -0600

It's time for Allison's big thesis showing of her artwork. After helping Orlando up the stairs with all his music gear, she pitches the idea of sponsoring a a concert featuring Orlando's music. Orlando is hesitant (he's never played anything bigger than a nite club) but Allison is insistent.

Allison's mother, Elizabeth, arrives and Allison is surprised and delighted to see her. She's not surprised her father didn't make it and we learn that Allison recently changed her name from "Crowe" to "Drake", Elizabeth's maiden name. This is a sore point for her father, Abraham, who is very conservative in his thinking. Apparently, her father grew up in a cult of some kind and had to adapt life after the cult disbanded.

Elizabeth admires the location Allie has chosen for her show and learns that Allison fixed it up herself using her inheritance from Uncle Max. The death of Max (Abraham's brother) comes as a devastating shock to Elizabeth and she sends Allie off to mingle while she collects herself.

Barnaby sees Elizabeth and greets her warmly only to receive a slap on the face from the grieving woman. Barnaby is flustered and tries to fumble through an explanation but is distracted by the site of Calaban mingling with the guests. He abruptly excuses himself and confronts the agent of Ambrose Royce.

During their heated exchange, Calaban alludes to a "surprise" that's in store for later, then leaves Barnaby sputtering.

Allison greets her faculty advisor, Mrs. Danforth, and receives a chilly greeting. Danforth admires Allison's technical skill but urges her to "grow up" and paint grown up things.

Solomon Keys rifts in and offers congratulations to Allison. He also reminds her that, as the patriarch of the powerful church of New Eden, he is in a position to assist Allie in her newly discovered abilities. "You are not alone," he informs her, a point of great comfort for the beleaguered young woman.

Then, while Allison is in the restroom, three Ten'ek Soor appear and begin to ransack the gallery looking for her. Mikayla steps in but is seriously wounded by the fierce warriors. They find Allison and are about to kill her when Solomon Keys intervenes, rifting in a squad of "Shadow Guard", New Eden's elite soldiers. Out-manned, the Ten'ek Soor depart after a terse exchange with Father Keys. The holy man then mystically heals Mikayla and departs, urging Allison to visit him soon.

Later, at the coffee shop, Barnaby is pressed for information from the group. According to Barnaby, the Ten'ek Soor and the church of New Eden have very different views of the omniverse. The Ten'ek Soor believe the scattered realities are part of a divine plan, while the New Eden faith seeks to somehow mend the breach and unify all the realities and the people that inhabit them.

It is also revealed that Barnaby used to work for Royce and was replaced by Calaban. He is hesitant to discuss the details of his departure, saying only that his "loyalty became compromised". Barnaby cautions everyone that Royce is not to be trusted.

The episode ends with Allison receiving a phone call from Mrs. Danforth who is furious at the "Performance Art" presentation at Allison's showing. There's talk of having her expelled from the program, and Allison and Orlando leave to try and fix things.

***

The fantasy-adventure saga of Portals follows the fortunes of Allison Drake, a young artist who inherits a self-storage garage business and discovers that each unit is a doorway to a different reality. Allison and her friends are quickly drawn into a web of wonders and dangers with the fate of all realities hanging in the balance. Fascinating and strikingly original, Portals offers listeners a lush audio portrait of characters on a heroic journey of intrigue and adventure.

Portals is presented by Rabbit Hole Radio Theatre, a co-production of NoCo FM and OpenStage Theatre & Company. Find out more at

Portals Chapter 3: Into the Rift

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:03:00 -0600

Allison, Orlando, and Mikayla ask for Barnaby´s assistance in returning the body of the Ten´ek Soor "demon" that attacked Allison (episode one) to its people.

Allison is desperate for some answers as to why they attacked her in the first place, but Barnaby is of little help... the Ten´ek Soor live on a "rift shard" that is not on any of the portal maps. Barnaby recalls a "shaman miystic type" named Rune who allegedly lives in the Rift. Allison mentally calls to him and he appears.

Rune agrees to guide the group and, Ten´ek Soor body in tow, the group is treated to their first "riftwalk". During their journey, Rune explains that the rift is the source of all Creation and that conscious thought is the spark that begins the cycle... "Think of this place as a question waiting for an answer... from you." Through Rune´s wisdom, the group finds the Ten´ek Soor Rift Shard and then departs.

The group is discovered by a small party of Ten´ek Soor who refrain from killing Allison as payment for her honoring them by bringing their fallen comrade home. They claim Allison ("Alysina Draconis") is the Un-Maker who´s every breath is a poison and who will one day destroy all that is. Things start getting ungly, but Allison somehow manages to open a rift tear - with the guidance of a mysterious voice that only she can hear - and the group escapes.

That night Allison has a dream and the mysterious voice comforts her, explaining that "Alysina Draconis" is the name her soul left upon Creation when she was born, and that her birthrite is nothing more than the realization and implementation of the gifts she came into the world with. The voice urges Allison to seek out her destiny and then departs, leaving Allison more confused than before.

Later, as she talks to Mikayla about the dream, we learn that Allison has a history of problems with her father, Abraham. He most likely won´t come to Allison´s gallery show but maybe her Mom, Elizabeth, will make it.

The episode ends with Elizabeth and Abraham arguing about the show. Elizabeth implores him to let the past go, but Abraham stubbornly refuses, ranting against Allison for changing her name and forbidding Elizabeth from attending the gallery show. After he storms out, Elizabeth resolves to go away, in spite of Abraham's fury.

***

The fantasy-adventure saga of Portals follows the fortunes of Allison Drake, a young artist who inherits a self-storage garage business and discovers that each unit is a doorway to a different reality. Allison and her friends are quickly drawn into a web of wonders and dangers with the fate of all realities hanging in the balance. Fascinating and strikingly original, Portals offers listeners a lush audio portrait of characters on a heroic journey of intrigue and adventure.

Portals is presented by Rabbit Hole Radio Theatre, a co-production of NoCo FM and OpenStage Theatre & Company. Find out more at https://rabbitholeradio.org.

Portals Chapter 2: The Trans-Dimensional Teacup

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:02:00 -0600

After the fight with the Tenīek Soor (episode 1 - "Inheritance"), Barnaby explains to Allison, Mikayla and Orlando, about the nature of reality... and Allisonīs unique place within it. According to Barnaby, the universe is comprised of infinite realities separated by a mysterious "rift". Allisonīs inherent ability as a "riftwalker" gives her the power to travel between those realities. The group is dubious and Mikayla presses Barnaby for a demonstration.

Meanwhile, Calaban reports to Ambrose Royce, who is revelling his most recent acquisition - a Lemirian executionerīs blade he has waited 800 years to possess. Calaban reveals that Allison was attacked by a Tenīek Soor warrior and that he was able to thwart the attack but not without being seen by everyone at the U-Stor-It. Royce adopts a patient attitude, content (for the moment) to see what unfolds.

Barnaby leads Allison and her friends to a storage garage... apparently the U-Stor-It facility is the location of numerous Portals to other realities. During the portal crossing, Allison hears an echoing voice calling her name just before everyone appears in Sabraya - the Crossroads of Reality. Barnaby describes the nature of portals - realities are attracted to each other and form points where they coexist, allowing informed travels to simply cross from one to the other.

Allison seems to have no problem speaking the local language, an idiosyncracy of riftwalkers... their connection to the all-encompassing rift allows her to hear the meaning behind everything she hears.

As they wander the market of Sabraya, Allison and Barnaby discuss Max. Allison is upset that Max knew she was a riftwalker but didnīt tell her. Barnaby points out that Allisonīs problems with her father made such a startling revelation inappropriate.

Orlandoīs concern for Allieīs emotional well-being are put to rest by Mikayla. Years ago, Mikayla was in therapy after an abusive relationship with an ex-boyfriend and was pulled through by Allisonīs commitment and stability. Mikayla asserts that thereīs a lot more to Allison than meets the eye.

Orlando finds a Fire Harp in the market and is miraculously showered in flower petals while playing the instrument. He is then given the harp by Solomon Keys, high priest of the Order of New Eden, as a gesture of appreciation for Orlandoīs talents. Keys extends the hospitality of the New Eden temple to the amazed friends before taking his leave.

The episode ends with Allison resolving to find the Tenīek Soor and learn why they want her dead.

***

The fantasy-adventure saga of Portals follows the fortunes of Allison Drake, a young artist who inherits a self-storage garage business and discovers that each unit is a doorway to a different reality. Allison and her friends are quickly drawn into a web of wonders and dangers with the fate of all realities hanging in the balance. Fascinating and strikingly original, Portals offers listeners a lush audio portrait of characters on a heroic journey of intrigue and adventure.

Portals is presented by Rabbit Hole Radio Theatre, a co-production of NoCo FM and OpenStage Theatre & Company. Find out more at https://rabbitholeradio.org.

Portals Chapter 1: Inheritance

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:00:00 -0600

Allison Drake, a young artist struggling to find her place in the world, learns her beloved Uncle Max has passed away. Barnaby Briggs - Max's closest friend - delivers the bad news just moments after Allison is served the summons to attend the reading of Max's will (delivered by a sinister messenger named Calaban).

At the reading of Max's will, led by Ambrose Royce – senior partner with Royce and Associates and Calaban's employer - Allison learns she’s inherited two and a half million dollars and the deed to self-storage business, the U-Stor-It. After her friends Orlando and Mikayla lead the distraught Allison from the courtroom, Barnaby warns Royce and Calaban to leave Allison alone. Unmoved by Barnaby’s threats, Royce sends Calaban to watch over Allison.

Orlando and Mikayla console Allison, recounting the magic and wonder that Max brought into Allison´s life. Allison resolves to go see the U-Stor-It to try and find some closure on her feelings about Max and the secrets he kept from her. The group arrives at the U-Stor-It, interrupting Barnaby on the phone with someone relating the events of the will reading. Suspisions about Barnaby´s presence are quickly put aside as a seven-foot demon appears from thin air and attacks Allison.

The creature speaks an alien language that Allison seems to understand. Mikayla and Orlando try to defend their friend but it is Calaban who intervenes, slaying the creature with a sword. Calaban then disappears, leaving Barnaby to make explanations to Allison and her friends. At the episode´s conclusion, Barnaby tells Allison that she is a "Riftwalker" and that her birthright is "nothing less than all of Creation".

***

The fantasy-adventure saga of Portals follows the fortunes of Allison Drake, a young artist who inherits a self-storage garage business and discovers that each unit is a doorway to a different reality. Allison and her friends are quickly drawn into a web of wonders and dangers with the fate of all realities hanging in the balance. Fascinating and strikingly original, Portals offers listeners a lush audio portrait of characters on a heroic journey of intrigue and adventure.

Portals is presented by Rabbit Hole Radio Theatre, a co-production of NoCo FM and OpenStage Theatre & Company. Find out more at https://rabbitholeradio.org.