Selected Shorts: Too Hot For Radio
Episode: Rachel B. Glaser "Ira and the Whale"
Host: Symphony Space
Release Date: June 2, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Selected Shorts: Too Hot For Radio, Symphony Space presents "Ira and the Whale," a provocative and emotionally charged short story by Rachel B. Glaser. Narrated by the talented actor Jeff Hiller, the episode delves into themes of isolation, identity, and the longing for connection, all set within the surreal confines of a whale's belly.

Reading of "Ira and the Whale" by Jeff Hiller

Timestamp: 04:50 - 22:38

Jeff Hiller brings Rachel B. Glaser's "Ira and the Whale" to life with a compelling and nuanced performance. The story follows Ira, a graphic designer stranded inside the immense stomach of a whale, grappling with despair and the remnants of his past life.

Plot Overview:

Ira finds himself trapped within a seemingly endless and dark whale stomach, struggling to find a way out while confronting his own fears and regrets. As time drags on, he encounters Austin and later Jake, fellow souls within the whale, each bringing their own dynamics to Ira's desperate situation. The narrative weaves through Ira's memories, his thwarted aspirations, and his complex feelings about love and identity.

Key Themes:

• Isolation and Survival: Ira's battle against the physical and psychological confines of the whale symbolizes the human struggle against personal demons and societal pressures.

• Identity and Self-Acceptance: Ira's interactions with Austin and Jake reflect his internal conflict regarding his sexuality and self-worth.

• Connection and Hope: Despite the bleakness of his situation, Ira's relationships with Austin and Jake underscore the innate human need for connection and understanding.

Notable Quotes:

• Ira's Realization of Despair:
  "He is trapped in a whale and will die alone. He'll never make it back to his Airbnb, which looked exactly like the pictures, only half the size."
  (05:15)

• Desire for Connection:
  "Ira wants to touch him, hug him or rub his shoulder, run his hands through the man's thick hair."
  (14:30)

• Existential Reflection:
  "To live is humiliating, but to die is worse."
  (19:45)

• Hope amidst Despair:
  "It's really like a place where I find the most joy is being in front of an audience, being. Being in control, but also using that control to make the audience feel safe."
  (This quote appears in the interview section but encapsulates Ira's lingering hope and resilience.)

Performance Highlights:

Jeff Hiller masterfully navigates Ira's tumultuous emotions, shifting seamlessly from despair to fleeting moments of hope. His portrayal captures the essence of Ira's internal struggle, making listeners empathize deeply with his plight. The vivid descriptions of the whale's interior and Ira's fragmented memories are brought to life through Hiller's expressive narration.

Interview with Jeff Hiller

Timestamp: 27:14 - 36:16

Following the reading, Jeff Hiller shares his insights and experiences related to performing "Ira and the Whale."

First Impressions and Character Connection:

• Identifying with Ira:
  "As I was reading it, I just kept thinking, like, oh, God, this guy's so much like me. I really identify with him and with him, the, you know, wanting more, but also, like, being a little tired to give more."
  (27:32)

  Hiller expresses a personal connection with Ira, relating to the character's desire for more out of life while feeling fatigued by constant striving.

Preparation and Performance:

• Characterizing Through Performance:
  "I want people to know you are fine. Don't you worry."
  (33:42)

  Hiller emphasizes his commitment to immersing himself in the character, ensuring that the audience feels the authenticity and emotional depth of Ira's journey.

Experiences with Fire Island:

• Personal Reflections on Fire Island:
  "The whole island is so special because there's no cars there, and there's these beautiful little boardwalks, and you have this, like, nature."
  (29:05)

  Hiller shares his memories and the profound sense of community he felt during his time on Fire Island, highlighting its significance as a sanctuary for authentic self-expression.

Connection to "Somebody Somewhere":

• Finding a 'Found Family':
  "It was such a gift to have that together."
  (30:24)

  Discussing his role in the HBO series "Somebody Somewhere," Hiller reflects on the familial bonds formed during the show's production, mirroring the connections explored in "Ira and the Whale."

Book Announcement:

• Upcoming Publication:
  "I do have a book coming out on June 10th. It's called 'Actress of a Certain 20 Year Trail to Overnight Success.'"
  (34:56)

  Hiller introduces his forthcoming book, detailing his personal journey and the themes of perseverance and self-acceptance that resonate with both his acting career and Ira's story.

Final Reflections:

• On Hope and Resilience:
  "It's about, you know, Ira is not really giving up on himself. He's like, yeah, maybe if we get out of here or whatever. And he finds Jake and has this friendship and connected moment at the end."
  (32:21)

  Hiller underscores the story's message of finding hope and human connection even in the most dire circumstances, aligning with his own beliefs in the power of resilience.

Conclusion

This episode of Selected Shorts: Too Hot For Radio masterfully combines Rachel B. Glaser's evocative storytelling with Jeff Hiller's passionate performance, creating a deeply moving narrative journey. The subsequent interview enriches the experience, offering listeners a glimpse into Hiller's personal connections with the story and his broader artistic endeavors. "Ira and the Whale" stands out as a poignant exploration of human vulnerability and the enduring search for meaning and connection.

Notable Contributors:

• Producer: Jennifer Brennan and Mary Shimkin
• Podcast Producer and Editor: Colleen Pelissier
• Consulting Producers: Miles B. Smith, Matthew Love
• Theme Song: Pottington Bear
• Host: Aparna Nancherla

Thank you for joining us for this episode of Selected Shorts: Too Hot For Radio. Stay tuned for more compelling stories and insightful discussions every Thursday from Symphony Space.