Exploring Tomorrow

Exploring Tomorrow was a groundbreaking American old-time radio series that captivated audiences with its unique blend of science fiction and cutting-edge scientific concepts. Airing on the Mutual Broadcasting System from December 4, 1957, to June 13, 1958, this short-lived but impactful show left an indelible mark on the landscape of radio drama and science fiction storytelling.

The series was billed as “the first science-fiction show of science-fictioneers, by science-fictioneers and for science-fictioneers - real science fiction for a change!” This bold claim set the stage for a program that would push the boundaries of imagination and scientific speculation.

At the helm of Exploring Tomorrow was the legendary John W. Campbell, editor of Astounding Magazine (later known as Analog Science Fiction and Fact). Campbell’s involvement as the show’s narrator lent an air of authenticity and gravitas to the proceedings. His deep understanding of science fiction and his role in shaping the careers of many great science fiction writers of the era made him the perfect guide for listeners as they ventured into the unknown realms of future possibilities.

The show’s format typically featured standalone episodes, each presenting a unique story that explored various aspects of potential future technologies, societal changes, and the human condition in the face of scientific advancement. This anthology-style approach allowed for a diverse range of narratives, keeping listeners engaged and eager to tune in week after week.

The Stars

While Exploring Tomorrow did not rely on a regular cast of stars in the traditional sense, it did feature a rotating ensemble of talented voice actors who brought the various characters and stories to life. Some of the notable performers who lent their voices to the show included:

Mandel Kramer: A versatile actor known for his work in radio dramas, Kramer’s ability to inhabit a wide range of characters made him a valuable asset to the series.

Bryna Raeburn: Her expressive voice and emotional range allowed her to portray everything from determined scientists to bewildered civilians facing strange new worlds.

Lawson Zerbe: A radio veteran, Zerbe’s commanding presence added gravitas to many of the show’s more serious storylines.

Lon Clark: Best known for his portrayal of Nick Carter, Master Detective, Clark brought his considerable talents to various roles in Exploring Tomorrow.

Mason Adams: His distinctive voice and ability to convey complex emotions made him ideal for portraying characters grappling with the moral and ethical dilemmas often presented in the show.

These actors, along with others like Connie Lembcke, Larry Haines, Don Douglas, Bret Morrison, and Charlotte Sheffield, formed the backbone of the series’ cast, their performances helping to bring the futuristic scenarios to life in the minds of listeners.

Key Dates

• December 4, 1957: Exploring Tomorrow makes its debut on the Mutual Broadcasting System, marking the beginning of its journey into the realms of science fiction radio drama.
• June 13, 1958: The final episode of Exploring Tomorrow is broadcast, bringing the series to a close after a relatively short but impactful run of just over six months.
• While the show’s run was brief, it managed to produce a significant number of episodes during this period, each one offering listeners a glimpse into potential futures and the ethical, social, and technological challenges they might bring.

Other Information

Notable Writers: One of the most remarkable aspects of Exploring Tomorrow was the caliber of science fiction authors who contributed stories to the series. The show featured works by some of the most prominent names in the genre, including:

Randall Garrett: Known for his alternate history and fantasy works, Garrett’s contributions added a layer of imaginative depth to the series.

Gordon R. Dickson: A prolific author whose works often explored the impact of technology on society, Dickson’s stories were a perfect fit for the show’s themes.

Robert Silverberg: One of the most celebrated science fiction authors of the 20th century, Silverberg’s involvement lent considerable prestige to the series.

Isaac Asimov: The legendary author of the Foundation series and creator of the Three Laws of Robotics, Asimov’s contributions were undoubtedly a highlight for many listeners.

Philip K. Dick: Known for his mind-bending explorations of reality and identity, Dick’s stories likely pushed the boundaries of what radio drama could achieve.

Poul Anderson: His works, often featuring detailed world-building and scientific accuracy, aligned perfectly with the show’s mission to present “real science fiction.”

Production Team: Behind the scenes, Exploring Tomorrow benefited from the talents of producer-director Sanford Marshall, who helped shape the overall vision and sound of the series. The show’s announcers, Bill Mahr and Guy Wallace, provided the familiar voices that introduced each episode and likely read the commercials that supported the program.

Musical Theme: The series used the classic song “As Time Goes By” as its theme music. This choice of a familiar tune, perhaps best known from the film Casablanca, provided an interesting contrast to the futuristic content of the show, possibly serving as a reminder that even as humanity explores tomorrow, certain timeless elements of the human experience remain constant.

Legacy: Although Exploring Tomorrow had a relatively short run, its impact on the science fiction radio drama genre was significant. By bringing together some of the most talented writers in the field and presenting their visions of the future to a wide radio audience, the show helped to popularize science fiction concepts and speculative thinking.

The series also served as a platform for John W. Campbell to share his influential ideas about science fiction with a broader audience. Campbell’s narration and guidance throughout the series likely influenced how many listeners thought about the future and the potential of scientific advancement.

Today, Exploring Tomorrow is remembered as an important part of the golden age of radio drama and a unique experiment in bringing high-quality science fiction to the airwaves. Its legacy lives on through preserved recordings and the enduring impact it had on both the science fiction genre and the medium of radio drama.