The Relic Radio Show: Theater Five and Author’s Playhouse Release Date: January 14, 2025

Overview

In this episode of The Relic Radio Show, hosted by Fred Foy from RelicRadio.com, listeners are treated to a fascinating journey through two classic old-time radio dramas: "The Arithmetic of Honor" from Theater Five and "Cry for the Hunted" from Author’s Playhouse. Both stories delve into themes of espionage, identity, and the psychological toll of being hunted, set against the backdrop of post-war Berlin. This detailed summary captures the essence of each play, highlighting key discussions, insights, and notable moments.

1. "The Arithmetic of Honor" – Theater Five

Synopsis

“The Arithmetic of Honor” navigates the tense atmosphere of a divided Berlin, focusing on Hans Bauer, an East Berlin truck driver with a hidden past as an electronics engineer. After surviving a violent encounter with robos (paramilitary enforcers), Hans attempts to navigate his identity and relationship with Maria, a local woman who becomes entangled in his quest for freedom.

Key Plot Points

• Initial Encounter (00:11 - 02:00): The play opens with Hans Bauer being questioned by authorities after an attempted robbery. His careful navigation through questions about his identity reveals his complex background and lack of familial ties in West Berlin.

  Evelyn Juster (Maria): "He tried to explain, but no one would listen to her. It was like talking to a wall." [00:40]

• Developing Relationship (03:37 - 08:13): Hans and Maria’s interactions deepen, showcasing Hans's charm and Maria's growing affection. Hans proposes a trip to West Berlin, promising Maria a glimpse of freedom and a break from her monotonous life in Selburg.

  Fred Foy (Hans): "What we need is some time together. Some real time to get to know each other." [06:06]

• Crossing Borders (08:19 - 15:45): The couple successfully crosses into West Berlin, only to reveal Hans’s true intentions. He has orchestrated an identity theft, assuming Maria Schmidt's identity to infiltrate East Berlin and confront the Volkspolizei (secret police).

  Fred Foy (Hans): "I smashed through that barricade... Today I want to go back there as a free man." [09:11]

• Betrayal and Capture (15:11 - 18:44): As Hans executes his plan, Maria (now Trudy) becomes suspicious of his actions. The tension culminates in their arrest when the authorities uncover Hans’s deception.

  Evelyn Juster (Maria): "I didn't know you were Carl Rendler. And you're not German, are you?" [37:07]

Notable Quotes

• Maria: "Am I loved? Or am I just dizzy from all the attention? I don't know." [05:07]
• Hans: "I love you more than anyone in the world. Even Mama and Papa." [08:04]
• Maria: "We are going to East Berlin." [07:32]

Themes and Insights

• Identity and Deception: The play explores the complexities of assuming another’s identity for a greater cause, highlighting the moral ambiguities involved.
• Love vs. Duty: Hans’s commitment to his mission contrasts with his genuine feelings for Maria, illustrating the personal sacrifices often demanded by espionage.
• Freedom and Oppression: Set against the Cold War tensions, the narrative underscores the relentless pursuit of freedom amidst oppressive regimes.

2. "Cry for the Hunted" – Author’s Playhouse

Synopsis

“Cry for the Hunted” presents the psychological unraveling of Robert Knowles, an English intelligence officer haunted by his past missions. As he grapples with amnesia and obsession, his deteriorating mental state becomes the focal point of a desperate effort to regain his sanity through unconventional therapy involving hunting.

Key Plot Points

• Introduction to Knowles (22:02 - 24:18): Dr. Danny Ako introduces Robert Knowles, whose traumatic experiences have left him with psychosis and fragmented memories. Knowles fixates on vague locations and names, such as a "dark forest" and "Kata."

  Danny Ako: "Knowles is obsessed by what happened to him... He keeps rambling on about a dark forest somewhere." [22:28]

• Therapeutic Intervention (25:05 - 27:21): Dr. Ako attempts to treat Knowles by encouraging him to engage in hunting, believing that facing his fears directly may help him overcome his psychological barriers.

  Danny Ako: "I want you to go down into that forest and bring back the bird. If you've got the guts to go in there alone and hunt that bird down, I say you've got a chance to cure yourself." [27:10]

• Climactic Confrontation (33:12 - 45:59): As Knowles embarks on his therapeutic hunt, he encounters Connie Lemke (Katie), who helps him reveal his true identity as Robert Knowles, an English spy. Their attempt to escape together leads to a tragic finale where both are hunted, culminating in a poignant realization of Knowles's regained self-awareness.

  Knowles: "I love you, Kita. It wasn't part of my job. I tried not to, but there was nothing I could do." [37:50]

• Resolution (46:46 - 50:16): The play concludes with Knowles's ultimate act of kindness — releasing the hunted bird, symbolizing his reclaiming of freedom and humanity after a year of being pursued.

  Knowles: "For once I was hunted and somebody gave me my freedom... That's why I let the bird go." [49:32]

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Danny Ako: "Sometimes I stand for hours at the window and watch the birds flying." [25:05]
• Knowles: "I love you, Kita. It wasn't part of my job." [37:50]
• Knowles: "For once I was hunted and somebody gave me my freedom." [49:32]

Themes and Insights

• Psychological Trauma: The narrative delves deep into the effects of war and espionage on the human psyche, portraying Knowles's struggle with memory loss and identity.
• Redemption and Humanity: Knowles's journey from being hunted to hunting symbolizes a quest for redemption and the restoration of his humanity.
• Love and Sacrifice: The relationship between Knowles and Katie highlights themes of unconditional love and the sacrifices made in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

This episode of The Relic Radio Show masterfully showcases two compelling radio dramas that not only entertain but also provoke deep reflection on themes of identity, love, trauma, and the relentless quest for freedom. Through rich storytelling and memorable dialogues, “The Arithmetic of Honor” and “Cry for the Hunted” offer timeless narratives that resonate with the enduring spirit of old-time radio.

Credits and Acknowledgments

• "The Arithmetic of Honor"

  • Written by: Raphael David Blau
  • Directed by: Warren Somerville
  • Cast: William Redfield (Hans Bauer), Evelyn Juster (Maria), Louis Van Ruten, Connie Lemke, Danny Ako
  • Music: Alexander Vlastenko Orchestra under the direction of Glenn Osser

• "Cry for the Hunted"

  • Written by: Frederick J. Lipp
  • Directed by: Albert Cruz
  • Cast: William Redfield (Robert Knowles), Geraldine K. (Katie), Maurice Copeland, Sydney Brace, Kurt Kupfer, Norman Gottschalk
  • Music: Roy Shield, Orchestra conducted by Joseph Galicio

Notable Quote from Host

Fred Foy: "Visit relicradio.com for more from Theater Five, Author’s Playhouse, this podcast, and all of the other Relic Radio shows." [19:21]

For More Episodes and Content: Visit RelicRadio.com to explore additional shows, stream via Shout Cast, and support the preservation of old-time radio entertainment.