Olympic Theatre Art Center’s countdown has begun for its (virtual) Radio Play Season opening.

Filming is complete for the first episodes of “Fibber McGee and Molly,” a staple in radio comedy during its heyday, and editing is in progress.

OTA hopes to be inviting the public to tune in soon for the first episode, “Raffle at Wistful Vista.”

These reader’s theatre-style, videotaped episodes will be posted for viewing at www.olympictheatrearts.org as they are finished.

“This is the same type of production as the on stage radio plays OTA has done in the past,” executive director Carol Willis. “Except that the actors are wearing face shields and maintain proper social distancing, and instead of a live audience we will have our patrons ‘tuning in’ whenever they like simply by clicking on our website portal.”

In the interest of following its mission of “entertaining, educating and inspiring community involvement through experiences in the arts,” OTA is presenting these shows free of charge.

Carol and David Willis’ “avatars” enjoy a show. Photo courtesy of Olympic Theatre Art Center

“Our first priority is to engage our creative community and be there for those who miss us,” said Pete Griffin, OTA image manager and character actor Pete Griffin.

“There are a lot of folks out there who might not have money right now to buy tickets, or perhaps not know how to do so online, so we decided to just put our performances out there for free.”

Community support

Helping make this free season possible is Radio Pacific, OTA’s season sponsor. In addition to financial support, Radio Pacific will air ads for OTA and its season on their newest station, KZQM 104.9 FM in Sequim.

The cast of “Fibber McGee and Molly” rehearse on the set on OTA’s Caldwell Main Stage. Photo courtesy of Olympic Theatre Art Center

In addition to donations, OTA is also offering those who would typically buy season tickets the opportunity to place an “avatar” in the auditorium for the show. For $100, patrons can buy a seat for the duration of the season to put their “avatar” in, and as opportunities arise during filming the camera will pan into the audience and viewers at home can see who’s “at the show.”

Patrons interested in “season avatars” or other details of this uncharted endeavor can email OTA at office@olympictheatrearts.org.

“It brings a whole new meaning to ‘See you at the theatre’,” Willis said.