Escape - The Man Who Could Work Miracles

Escape's "The Man Who Could Work Miracles" is a charming adaptation of the short story by H.G. Wells. If you are interested in reading the original work, published in 1898, it is available at Wikisource.

Mr. George McWhirter Fotheringay, a reasonable man, was busy having a respectable argument with the other patrons at the Long Dragon Bar when his troubles began. They were arguing about the existence of miracles, and Mr. Fotheringay had stated that such things just weren't possible because they were contrary to the laws of nature. In the course of arguing of his position, however, he caused a miracle!

After being thrown out of the Long Dragon for being a trouble-maker, Mr. Fotheringay realizes that he has suddenly gained the power to work miracles of all kinds. After turning his walking stick into a rose bush and then sending the local constable to Hades (...and then repeatedly to San Francisco), Mr. Fotheringay decides to get some help. He then visits the local reverend, Mr. Maydig, for advice about his unusual dilemna. That night, the two of them set out to use Mr. Fotheringay's amazing powers to solve all of the town's problems, but end up causing a world of trouble instead.

"The Man Who Could Work Miracles" was adapted for Escape by Les Crutchfield with editorial supervision by John Dunkel. Norman MacDonnell produced/directed and Ben Wright starred as George Fotheringay. John Dehner played Mr. Maydig. Also appearing were Wilms Herbert, Jeff Corey, Eleanor Audley, and Constance Cavendish. This episode aired on September 19, 1948.

.  Download Escape_1948.09.19_ManWhoCouldWorkMiracles.mp3

Escape presented this story again, with some improvements in the sound effects, on December 31, 1950. Norman MacDonnell produced/directed. Ben Wright again starred as George Fotheringay. Also appearing were John Dehner, Lou Krugman, Eileen Erskine and Wilms Herbert.

.  Download Escape_1950.12.31_ ManWhoCouldWorkMiracles.mp3

(Image of Tartarus Press 2006 edition)

Comments

[Stacy Sobotka]

this is one of my favorite episodes of Escape!!!

I first read this in sixth grade in an adapted form...but it's lots more fun to listen to it performed!!

Thanks for posting!