Module Outline Introduction Relationship between Formats and Programs Features Discussions News Bulletins Drama Talks Review: Formats News Programs Magazine Programs Talk Shows Review: Radio Programs Summary Evaluation   Course Outline

Module 3: Radio Programs and Formats
Drama

Dramas are fictional stories, but they are based on real-life events or situations. Drama is an effective tool to help listeners connect with issues on an emotional level. Radio dramas are widely used in Africa, Asia and Latin America, especially to present information about social issues.

Dramas can be long - 30 minutes or more - or short - 30 seconds to 5 minutes. The length depends on the topic and how the drama is being used within a radio program. Short dramas are commonly referred to as mini-dramas.

Dramas are effective catalysts for opening up discussion on sensitive topics, such as HIV/AIDS, domestic violence or teenage sex.  The drama scenario sets up a situation where guests or callers do not have to talk directly about themselves or their own situations.  Instead, they can comment on the issues raised in the mini-drama and respond to the situations or ideas of the characters.

The descriptions and information below deal with making mini-dramas.  Many of the same guidelines apply to making longer dramas.

Structure of a Mini-Drama

Making a mini-drama isn't difficult or time consuming. In fact, the process should be creative and fun. There's no need to record in a studio; it will sound much better if it is recorded in the field or on location with realistic sounds. Rehearsing beforehand will reduce the amount of time needed for editing.

Consider these components when making a mini-drama:

• Message.  Decide on one clear, simple message or problem, such as teenage sex.  It isn't always necessary to provide solutions, especially if a drama is being used to set up a discussion or debate. Sometimes it's better to leave the drama open-ended and invite listeners to phone in with suggestions and solutions.
• Characters. Keep the number of characters to a minimum.  Listeners won't be able to focus on the message if they have to keep track of multiple characters.
• Actors.  Ensure that the actors have a good sense of who their character is, even if this information isn't directly conveyed in the drama itself.
• Setting or scene.  Mini-dramas are simpler to produce if they have only one location and one point in time. If you need to include more scenes, make clear transition points or bridges so the listener doesn't get confused.
• Sound effects.  Include simple sound effects to help listeners imagine the scene. Kitchen noises, doors shutting, and cars honking, for example, are easy sound effects to make on the spot.  Find out how to make simple sound effects.

Don't be afraid to use humor. Laughter is often the best way to make points about a serious issue. Fictional environments and humor allow listeners to explore issues that they might otherwise shy away from.

Find out more about how to make a mini-drama.  Or listen to an example of a radio drama from UNICEF Somalia.  (You will need an audio player to listen to this file.) Or read about producing radio dramas for conflict prevention at Radio for Peacebuilding Africa (you will need to register on the website to access this file.)

Programs that use Mini-dramas

Mini-dramas can be used in:

• Magazine programs to introduce an interview or program guest
• Talk shows to lead off a discussion or invite calls