Tony Sands of Family Theater Productions
Posted by Sandy Warren
on Jul 22, 2015
Tony Sands Relates the Inspiring History
Of Family Theater Productions
The speaker at our meeting on Monday, July 20, was Tony Sands, Senior Producer of Family Theater Productions. He provided fascinating insights into the history of this company, from its radio roots in the late 1940s when it began as the Mutual Broadcasting System, to its current status as the production company of cable television specials, feature-length films, and inspiring public service announcements.
The company was started by Father Patrick Peyton. From 1947 to 1961, the organization produced more than 700 radio shows, many of them featuring A-list actors and actresses from the Golden Age of Hollywood. At that point, the company transitioned into television, eventually attaining worldwide distribution of its programs. Feature-length films followed in the 60s and 70s, and additional television productions in the 80s and 90s.
Family Theater Productions is currently involved with cable distribution of TV specials, as well as reissuance of some of its classic radio shows. Tony noted that the company is adapting to new media environments, including the Internet and smart phone applications, all in its mission of "Inspiring and entertaining families through faith-based short films, TV, radio, and billboards."
Thanks, Tony, for a fascinating look behinds the scenes!