Easy Aces," a live old-time radio comedy performed on stage at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Crystal Theatre in Crystal Falls.

CRYSTAL FALLS — The historic Crystal Theatre in downtown Crystal Falls is set to echo with the sounds of laughter, live music, and enticing storytelling as the WSUP Static & Stage Radio Troupe presents “Easy Aces,” a live old-time radio comedy performed on stage at 7 p.m. Saturday.

The performance invites audiences into the golden age of radio, recreating the experience of a 1940s broadcast while revealing the magic behind the microphone. From live sound effects to period music and rapid-fire dialogue, “Easy Aces” offers a rare glimpse into how radio entertainment once came to life.

What started as a simple idea — doing an old-fashioned radio show — quickly grew into something much bigger for Jane Adams, Jason Mattson, Sharon Mattson and Linda Hauser, the founders of the WSUP Static & Stage Radio Troupe.

“At first, we talked about doing a radio show on the radio,” Hauser said. “Something old-time, nostalgic and family-friendly.”

But as the group dug deeper into research and history, that idea began to evolve. Rather than limiting the experience to the airwaves, they realized audiences might enjoy seeing how those classic programs were created.

That shift led to the concept of live radio theatre — performing a vintage radio show on stage, complete with actors, live sound effects, and music, just as it would have been done during radio’s golden age. As the concept took shape, the group began working on an identity that would capture both sides of what they were creating: radio and theatre.

“We wanted something that encompassed old radio and the stage,” Hauser said.

The result was WSUP Static & Stage Radio Troupe, a name rooted in both function and place. The call letters WSUP reference radio broadcasting east of the Mississippi River, while also nodding to the Upper Peninsula. “Static” reflects radio’s early soundscape, and “Stage” represents the live theatrical experience.

When the group began planning their first production, they sought a show that was funny, family-friendly, and adaptable to a small cast while remaining true to its historical roots. After reviewing several classic radio programs, the group settled on “Easy Aces,” a long-running comedy from the golden age of radio that focused on everyday domestic life –jobs, friendships, in-laws, and the quirky frustrations faced by a married couple. Two “Easy Aces” episodes were selected and shaped into a two-act live radio performance, with particular emphasis on the show’s famously meddlesome mother-in-law character.

The next step was finding the right venue, leading the group to the historic Crystal Theatre.

“The Crystal Theatre’s charm, nostalgic appeal, and commitment to preserving its historic character while remaining relevant today made it an ideal partner,” Hauser said. “We knew this space would enhance the experience for both performers and audience members.”

Kristin Underhill, manager of the Crystal Theatre, noted that live radio theatre reflects the theatre’s early roots, when vaudeville performers frequently moved between stage and radio before the rise of television. Presenting “Easy Aces” allows modern audiences to experience that evolution in a way that hasn’t been seen at the Crystal Theatre in many years.

The performance will feature an experienced ensemble, each contributing to the authenticity of the live radio format. The cast includes Director Jane Adams as Mrs. Bell, Jason Mattson as Ace, Sharon Mattson as Jane, Linda Hauser as Mother, Jessica Holroyd as Miss Anderson, Tim Novak as George Wilson, Adam Stender as the announcer, Michael Thibodeau providing live sound effects and Kalee Hernandez on piano, performing music live throughout the show.

Together, the performers recreate the feel of a bustling radio studio, complete with character voices, live music, and sound effects created in real time — allowing audiences to watch the art of radio unfold before their eyes.

The production has been supported by local businesses, whose involvement reflects the community-based spirit behind the project.

Tickets for “Easy Aces” are $15 for adults and $5 for children and will be available at the door or online at thecrystaltheatre.org. Audience members are encouraged to arrive early to soak in the atmosphere of the historic venue before the curtain goes up at 7 p.m.