Uncovering Unsung Heroes: The Creation of Isolation Tapes’ “Another Word For Rescue”

Introduction

Before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, PRONK! was heavily involved in theatre work. However, as the world changed, so did our focus. We pivoted to audio, adapting some of our theatrical pieces into short audio dramas. This shift led to the creation of the Isolation Tapes, a collection of dramatic reimaginings of historical explorers. Each piece, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, featured original music by Robert Moutrey. The second piece in this series, Another Word For Rescue, was written and narrated by Amanda Wilkin and centers on the remarkable story of Ava “Blackjack” Johnson.

Background

Ava “Blackjack” Johnson’s story is both empowering and tragic. Born Ada Delutuk in a remote Alaskan settlement, she faced numerous challenges from a young age, including the death of her father and an abusive marriage. Despite these hardships, she displayed incredible resilience and determination, driven by her love for her son, Bennet. In 1921, she joined an Arctic expedition to Wrangel Island, an endeavour that would test her strength and resourcefulness to the limit.

Project Execution

The narrative of Another Word For Rescue explores several key themes: Ava’s underestimation by those around her, her indomitable spirit, and the struggle against the gender inequities of her time. The piece imagines Ava at various moments of her life, highlighting her bravery and intelligence as she cared for the ailing expedition member Lorne Knight and ultimately survived in one of the most inhospitable environments on Earth.

Amanda Wilkin’s writing beautifully captures Ava’s journey, presenting a meditation on love, anger, fate, and legacy. The original music by Robert Moutrey enhances the emotional depth of the narrative, creating an immersive audio experience that transports listeners into Ava’s world.

Outcome

The development of the Isolation Tapes during the pandemic was a transformative experience. While the project did not gain widespread recognition, it served as a valuable experiment in digital and audio storytelling.

Conclusion

The Isolation Tapes exemplify our commitment to innovation and storytelling. Despite the constraints imposed by the pandemic, we were able to produce meaningful work that resonates with our passion for history and exploration. As we continue to evolve, we look forward to new opportunities to bring stories to life through audio.

Multimedia

Another Word For Rescue (Narrated By Amanda Wilkin) by pronkproductions