Suffolk radio history preserved through new play by visually impaired actors

The big picture: Suffolk-based performing arts company Cohere Arts has developed the play through its visually impaired drama company High Spirits, following research conducted with Suffolk Archives.

The details: Living On Air draws audiences into the world of Radio Bardwell, a fictitious local radio station serving the Suffolk community, described as "an absurd romp through local radio and the sexual politics of the 1970s".

Behind the scenes: Last year, the cast collected oral histories through community story-collecting events at Ipswich venues, capturing recollections from former listeners, presenters and employees of Radio Orwell 257.

What they're saying: Emma Bernard, writer and director of Living On Air, reflected: "The 1970s was an exciting era for local radio, and it has been so wonderful to be able to draw on people's experiences of Ipswich's beloved Radio Orwell when making this play. However, any similarities with our Radio Bardwell are purely coincidental!"

For your diary: Performances will be held at the Sir John Mills Theatre in Ipswich from Saturday, 12 April to Sunday, 13 April.

Accessibility focus: All performances will be fully accessible, with BSL interpretation and integrated audio description.

The background: The play was developed with funding from Arts Council England and The National Heritage Lottery Fund, with support from New Wolsey Theatre and Eastern Angles.

The bottom line: "Living On Air" offers a unique opportunity to experience local history through inclusive theatre, with tickets available at easternangles.co.uk/event/living-on-air.