Summary: Intimate, documentary-style radio play about the author's experiences as an English teacher in the North of France - never broadcast in the US.
Very creative fusion of fiction and non-fiction. Both narratives blend in seamlessly. Well performed. Part with Jean-Claude when he's left alone and has to answer the phone is hilarious. The piece was able to convey the frustration and solitude of living in a foreign country, let alone teach a foreign language to foreigners. Painful when you live it, amusing when you remember it. Great use of sound...and Jean-Marie.
Present Progressive is a snapshot rather than a story. It would appeal to those who have taught overseas and can identify with the author such as Peace Corp volunteers or teachers.
A very impressive piece, hard to qualify. A nice merge between story telling and story showing. Sly remarks dot the landscape with narration, actors, and what sound like real interviews. This might not fit any specific area that I know of, but it also isn't restricted to any specific area. It is worth a listen and to find a place to air.
Comments for Present Progressive
Produced by Marjorie Van Halteren
Other pieces by Marjorie Van Halteren
Rating Summary
3 comments
Emon Hassan
Posted on May 22, 2005 at 06:14 PM | Permalink
Review of Present Progressive
Very creative fusion of fiction and non-fiction. Both narratives blend in seamlessly. Well performed. Part with Jean-Claude when he's left alone and has to answer the phone is hilarious. The piece was able to convey the frustration and solitude of living in a foreign country, let alone teach a foreign language to foreigners. Painful when you live it, amusing when you remember it. Great use of sound...and Jean-Marie.
W. Schor
Posted on July 17, 2004 at 12:49 PM | Permalink
Review of Present Progressive
Present Progressive is a snapshot rather than a story. It would appeal to those who have taught overseas and can identify with the author such as Peace Corp volunteers or teachers.
Hans Anderson
Posted on January 26, 2004 at 09:13 AM | Permalink
Review of Present Progressive
A very impressive piece, hard to qualify. A nice merge between story telling and story showing. Sly remarks dot the landscape with narration, actors, and what sound like real interviews. This might not fit any specific area that I know of, but it also isn't restricted to any specific area. It is worth a listen and to find a place to air.