“Both audio drama and radio drama are realised in sound but for radio what really matters is not sound, it is the act of broadcast…”

Dann emphasized the appeal of live radio, particularly in terms of the act of broadcasting. He pointed out that live radio offers a unique experience for the listener, as it is not just the delivery of sound, but a shared and interactive act. Through live radio, listeners can feel the immediate live atmosphere and emotional resonance, sharing this experience with the producers of the radio program and other listeners. This interactivity and real-time nature make live radio uniquely appealing, attracting more and more listeners. Dann argues that with the rise of online platforms, it is easier for people to choose the programs they are interested in and break away from the time and space constraints of traditional broadcasting. This ‘narrowcasting’ model allows listeners to select specific programs or topics according to their preferences and interests, without the constraints of traditional broadcast scheduling. However, while narrowcasting offers more choice and convenience, it also poses some challenges. Dann points out that as listeners become more selective, they may miss out on opportunities for unexpected discoveries, as well as shared and interactive experiences with radio program makers and other listeners. Thus, while online “narrowcasting” has changed the way the listening experience is organized, it has also brought with it some new challenges and considerations. Dann’s practical insights into the trends and challenges of radio in the 21st Century provide useful food for thought in our understanding of the importance and future direction of radio.