How to Write a Radio Serial Drama for Social Development- PDF

120 Chapter Eight: Scene Development
EXAMPLE
Scene 2:
Establish situation that Carla is pregnant with twins and husband George
is having trouble finding work as a builder. Establish his lack of selfconfidence.
Carla Brown is in the kitchen. She is pregnant and complains
of difficulty in bending down to reach things in the low cupboard. She is
making dinner for herself and George. He is tired and disgruntled. Carla
is concerned about him. He explains that he has been looking for work
all day, but that it seems no one in Sunville has need of a builder like him
right now. He said he called on a big company, Stan Enterprises, and met
the boss, Mr Stan himself. Mr Stan told him that he soon hoped to be
reclaiming a large tract of land from someone called Twigg, and then he
would have plenty of work for a first class builder. George, however, is
sure that Mr Stan will not choose him for the job. He is very concerned
that he must find a job before the twins are born. Carla is unable to find
the words to comfort and reassure him.
Closing line: “If I don’t have a job, Carla, I just don’t know how we can
afford these babies.”
Emotions: anxiety; fear
Scene 3:
In Dr Moss’s office. Establish characters of Dr. Moss and fact that
Carla—without telling George—has contemplated an abortion. Carla is
crying bitterly. Dr. Moss is attempting to comfort her. It becomes clear in
their discussion that Carla is considering the possibility of aborting her
twin babies because her husband is so upset about not being able to
afford them. Dr. Moss reveals himself as a fatherly, kind person. He tells
Carla there are still several months before the babies are born and that he
is sure something will turn up for George soon. He advises Carla against
going to work herself because her pregnancy is not stable. As Dr. Moss
and Carla are conversing, Bob Jadd calls on the telephone. Dr. Moss
assures him he can use his help in the morning.
Closing lines: Dr. Moss says to Carla, “That’s a fine young man. You
know, my dear, one day you’ll be as proud of your children as Mr. and
Mrs. Jadd are of theirs.”
Emotions: kindness, reassurance
Scene 4:
Establish the Jadd family, their relationship to the Stan family, and their
pride in their son, Bob. In the kitchen at the Stan home. Bob is speaking
to his mother who is preparing dinner for the Stan family. He tells her
that he will be working with Dr. Moss the next day—Saturday—so he
wants to get his homework done tonight. He asks if he can make an early
dinner for himself. His mother says she will make a light meal for him