If someone were to ask, “What do bamboo stalks, a bucket of water and an old carpet have in common?” the answer could be provided by Sean Ayala and Noah Whittington, the on-stage Foley artists for The Lancaster Players production, “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.”
“Each of those items is used to create a specific sound effect during the play,” said Ayala. “During radio’s golden age, sound effects were performed live by skilled technicians who assembled an amazing collection of everyday objects to recreate the sounds of the world around them.”
The art of creating and synchronizing sound effects with live action is known as Foley, named for pioneering sound artist Jack Foley. His innovative techniques helped lay the foundation for modern sound design in radio, film, and television.
In “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play,” sound effects play a vital role in establishing setting, creating atmosphere and immersing audiences in the story. From footsteps and slamming doors to weather effects and bustling streets, each sound helps transport listeners to the world of Bedford Falls….
