Host Scott Richards sits down with Foy Ford, the dedicated Theater Manager of the Swamp Fox Players, for a deep dive into the heartbeat of Georgetown's arts scene. Recorded at the South Carolina Maritime Museum, this episode explores the fascinating evolution of The Strand Theater. Originally built in 1941 as a cinema, the building sat vacant through the 1970s before being rescued and reborn as a community theater hub in 1982.

Foy shares the theater's journey from a cinema to a dual-purpose cinema and playhouse, and finally to its current flourishing status as a volunteer-driven powerhouse. Listeners will get a "behind the curtain" look at the recent renovations that returned the lobby to its classic 1950s glory while modernizing the 232-seat house for ultimate comfort.

Whether you're looking forward to the upcoming production of Grace and Glorie in June or the holiday magic of It's a Wonderful Life in December, the Strand Theater offers the perfect anchor for a night out. Located at 710 Front Street under the iconic marquee, it's just steps away from Georgetown's best dining, shopping, and the scenic Harborwalk. For more information visit the Swamp Fox Players online at www.SwampFoxPlayers.com.

In this episode, host Scott Richards explores the rich maritime history of Georgetown, South Carolina, with Hope McFaddin, Executive Director of the South Carolina Maritime Museum. The conversation opens with a look at Georgetown's transformative journey—once a powerhouse commercial port that drove the Southeast's economy, the city is now transitioning as the industrial port closes, paving the way for a new era including recreational boating, celebrating their maritime heritage and heritage tourism.

Hope describes the deep connection between the community and the Sampit River, explaining how the water remains the lifeblood of the city even as its purpose evolves. You'll hear the inspiring story of how the museum itself was born from local passion; what started as a wooden boat exhibit at Bayfest Festival in the 1990s was transformed by visionary business owners into the famous Wooden Boat Show. This grassroots effort led to the formation of a 501(c)(3) and, in 2011, the museum found its permanent home on Front Street in the historic building formerly known as "The New Store."

Today, the Wooden Boat Show remains the heartbeat of the museum and its largest annual fundraiser. This high-energy event is the primary reason the museum can offer free admission to the public year-round. The competition gives teams the boat plan, screws, nails, and lumber to build a Carolina Bateau, and teams have just four hours to build a boat from scratch. At 5:00 PM, the "hope it floats" race begins, featuring incredible craftsmanship and the occasional dramatic sinking. Beyond the races, the museum preserves "everything to do with the water," from Civil War schooners to shipwrecks and the quirky local tradition, "The Burning of the Socks," returning this Thursday, March 19th!

The South Carolina Maritime Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more at SCMaritimeMuseum.org.

Experience the revitalization of historic Front Street as Al Joseph, Main Street Director for the City of Georgetown, joins host Scott Richards at the South Carolina Maritime Museum. Discover how this charming coastal destination has transformed its business district, slashing empty storefronts from 25 down to just two in only five years.

From the massive Georgetown Wooden Boat Show to the upcoming Food, Beer & Wine Festival in May, Georgetown is buzzing with a new energy. Learn about the 17 diverse restaurants tucked within five blocks, the impact of The George, and why the next five years will bring sophisticated growth while preserving the city's unmistakable small-town soul.