Written in the years following World War II, as a metaphor for Nazism and Communism, Biederman and the Firebugs shows how "normal" citizens can be taken in by evil. This dark comedy is set in a town that is being regularly attacked by arsonists. Disguised as hawkers, they talk their way into people's homes and settle down in the attic, where they set about the destruction of the house.
The mp3 file linked below is a stereo approximation of the play's finale. Herr Biederman sits in his home as the whole town goes up in flames. In this five minute piece you'll hear flames, sirens, the constant ticking of Herr Biederman's clock, and a lovely Weimar era tune. It all builds to an explosive crescendo.
Critical praise for Biederman and the Firebugs
“M. Scott Grabau's Looney Tunes sound effects and Eric Lotze's lighting and projections add to the play's goofy flair.”
Pam Kragen
North County Times
“M. Scott Grabau’s sound design is even more creative: from the recordings of Weimar-era music used to set the mood (some of which sound like re-creations from Frisch’s time) to the brilliant surround-sound effects used in the play’s most tense moments, everything we hear adds to the overall mood and power of Frisch’s script.”
Mark Gabrish Conlan
Zenger's Newsmagazine
“M. Scott Grabau did an outstanding job with the sound effects and various backgrounds.”
Robert Hitchcox
Hitchcox On Line