Audio fiction and performing arts. History of an illustrated dialogue in four pieces of Mexican radio (1930-1990)

Abstract

The relationship between performing arts and the sonic world has a long history of mutual enrichment. However, the sonic aspect of stage performances has often taken a secondary role among researchers and creators in this field. This article explores the paths, encounters, and divergences between radio and performing arts in Mexico, guided by the following research questions: How did the articulation of radio staging evolve to develop its own distinct language? What elements endowed audio fiction with expressiveness and an artistic aesthetic? And finally, in what ways could sonic narrative contribute to performing arts?

The aim of this article is to highlight the narrative and dramatic expressiveness of the sound by emphasizing the work of sound artists in the recreation of soundscapes, through the analysis and description of four audio fiction from different periods of Mexican radio: Sueño de día (1939), Ha llegado el momento (1939), Martín Corona (1950), and Cuando la radio conmovió al mundo (1990), all of which were broadcast on Mexican radio. These pieces illustrate significant aspects of the creative exchanges between audio fiction and performing arts, particularly theatre, and could provide elements to develop the expressive and aesthetic potential of sound on stage. We propose a dialogue between artists and researchers from both artistic fields to share resources, explore possibilities, and innovate.