89.3 The Current Announces Changes to "The Local Show"

Apr 13, 2009

89.3 The Current today announced changes to "The Local Show."

Chris Roberts, the creator and host of "The Local Show," will host his final episode Sunday, April 26 at 5 p.m.

Roberts, who has been splitting his time between MPR News and The Current, is being called back to MPR News full time. As the newsroom shifts resources, dedicating more staff to both its radio and online news, they need Roberts to expand his arts reporting there. Check out his new Art Hounds feature.

"Chris has been a leading figure for The Current," said McGuinn. "With interviews and sessions with hundreds of local artists, he put together maybe the best local music show at radio in the country. While we'll miss him on 'The Local Show,' MPR News will benefit from his expertise on a full-time basis."

Starting Sunday, May 3, "The Local Show" Sunday night tradition will continue, but with a new host, time slot and format. David Campbell, host of "Radio Free Current," will now also host "The Local Show." Campbell is a long-time veteran of the Twin Cities scene. A fan, musician, record store clerk, record label staffer, and a 10-year staffer of KQRS and Drive 105's "Homegrown," Campbell's love for Minnesota music makes him a perfect fit for the show.

Expanded to two hours, "The Local Show" will now broadcast 6-8 p.m. Sundays. During the 6 p.m. hour, a guest from the local music community will join Campbell to play music and talk about his/her involvement in the scene. The second hour will feature a live performance and interview with some of the best Twin Cities musicians. All the music featured during both hours will be by local artists.

"I have been a huge fan of Chris Roberts and 'The Local Show' a long time now and it's exciting to have this opportunity to host a local music program again," Campbell said. "The additional hour will really make this thing work. It's going to be sweet."

TUNE IN:

Final broadcast of "The Local Show" with Chris Roberts: 5 p.m. Sunday, April 26. Starting May 3, "The Local Show" with David Campbell will broadcast 6-8 p.m. Sundays.

The Current is heard on KCMP 89.3 FM in the Twin Cities, KMSE 88.7 FM in Rochester and on the Web at thecurrent.org.