Difference between radio drama and television drama

Difference between radio script and television script

Radio is an aural medium which involves only hearing sense of people where as T.V has both audio and visual impacts on mind. It is necessary for a radio program  to create a mind picture for listeners. And to convey the message in the right direction.

There are the key differences between radio script and television script

1. Scenes and Sequences

Radio plays are divided into sequences. Every sequence should end with a fade or a cut. The passage of time may be indicated by music or a silence leaving no doubt in the mind of listeners as where and when the action is taking place. Whereas T.v play is divided in scenes and every scene appeared with establishing shot. Every scene is on the screen.

2. Characterization

An essential element in a radio play. Limit the number of characters to maximum four at a time. And the story should revolve around single person. Beware of characters that are very much a like to avoid the confusion for the listeners. Such as mothers of two friends. Unless there is some obvious difference in terms of temperament or accent. Whereas, in T.v play there is not such limitation of characters. Story may revolves around more than 8 or 9 people it will not be difficult for the viewer to remember the character as every character is on screen.

3. Dialogue 

Dialogue writing is another important element of radio plays as it involves verbal communication so it must be expressive as much as possible. The delivery of words creates a mind picture so that the play must be written by keeping the visual sense. An attracting opening is necessary which can grab the attention of listeners. Avoid using such words which cause tongue twist and the unnecessary dialogues should also be avoided. Every dialogue must make its contribution for the story as a whole and move the plot onward. Where as in TV play viewers can see movements of characters the face expressions, body language as far it is concerned. It embraces the non-verbal communication as well. For example a tragic scene can be shown only through tears on t.v but on radio emotions should be shown through words.

4. Stress and Pause

In radio plays it is very necessary to mention the stress and pause in a dialogue. Because the meanings can be changed through a wrong stress and pause in speech. For example there is a sentence “I did not say that you are a liar” which can be delivered through 4 different ways. Where as in TV plays it is not as much necessary because the audience can judge the situation through visuals.

5. Creativity

In radio plays sound effects and actualities bring expressions to the script. Such as sound of applause, cheers, clapping, opening of door, pouring water in glass or sound of boots etc. it may also include sound of waves, blowing of winds, rainfall or thunderstorm. These all make a script alive. Where as in TV plays creativity is the art of camera shots. More over TV play can be made artistic through special lights, video graphics, wardrobe, set design, make up, jewelry and props etc.

6. Visual sense

In radio plays the script must be written to keep in view the visual sense. Such as movements should be written in words for example “Nadia – you are doing ninety! Slow down the car” (which means Nadia is going at the speed of 90 km per hr) where as TV carry both audio and visual sense for the audience. Any weakness of script can be overcome through visuals. Although script must be powerful but there is no need to tell the movements in words.