Campfire Radio Theater – “The Ghost of Lori Keegan”
We present a cautionary tale for any who might consider bullying to be an appealing sport. From the pen of John Ballentine rises a haunting audio tome titled “The Ghost of Lori Keegan.”
In composing music for audio drama, I make every effort to create the strongest emotional connections between the music and the story. Having experienced bullying as a child, and now being a parent of two children, scoring this story presented a real challenge for me.
The Story: A Debt That Must Be Paid
“It was after midnight and once again, Angela felt that terrible presence creeping into her room…”
Haunted by a tragic incident from the past, Angela reminisces about a grade school friend and a series of ghostly visitations that have plagued her since childhood. But Lori is not the type of ghost that fades away; she is a vengeful spirit collecting a debt, a ritual of “making karma” that never seems to end.
It was painful to watch the experiences of Lori unfold in the script, but it provided a visceral experience to draw upon emotionally. This episode helped me dig deeply into my own psyche to channel music that I believe illuminates this powerful story.
Listener Response
Listeners have praised the episode for its atmospheric score and restrained performances, with many citing the unexpected narrative turn.
- “The music really elevated this episode.”
- “A well put together ghost story with an unusual plot twist.”
- “The haunting piano at the end is really beautiful.”
Warning: Contains adult language and frightening situations.
Cast and Crew
Written, directed, and produced by John Ballentine.
Original music score by Kevin Hartnell.
The Cast:
- Erika Sanderson as Angela
- Tanja Milojevic as Lori
- Owen McCuen as Father
- James Hicklin as Newscaster
- Blythe Haynes as Young Angela
- Shelby Sessler as Young Lori
- Linda Wojtowick as Teacher
- Julie Hoverson as Weather Girl
- MJ Hartnell as Bully
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