Celebrating a Century of German Radio Drama

Germany marks 100 years since its first radio drama, reflecting on the evolution and enduring popularity of the medium.

The first German radio drama, 'Zauberei auf dem Sender,' aired live on October 24, 1924, marking the beginning of a unique cultural tradition.
Hans Flesch, the creator of the first radio drama, incorporated elements such as voice, music, and sound effects that remain staples of the genre today.
Post-war Germany saw a flourishing of radio dramas, with notable works by authors like Günter Eich, Ingeborg Bachmann, and Max Frisch.
The 1970s introduced a new wave of commercial radio dramas targeting young audiences, leading to the rise of the 'Kassettenkinder' generation.
Today, radio dramas have found a new home on streaming platforms, but concerns remain about the future of public broadcasting in this digital age.