If you're into podcasts – and who isn't these days? – you've likely dabbled in Crimetown, if not binged the whole season with ears, and eyes, wide open.
The new podcast series comes by way of Gimlet Media (responsible for the sensational podcast, Serial) and the creators of HBO's The Jinx, a show that had everyone tripping over themselves to get to the shocking surprise ending. Each season, Crimetown explores the culture of crime in a different American city. In this, its inaugural season, it went deep into the mob roots of Providence, RI, and its wiseguy mayor, Buddy Cianci.
"The Boston press always looked at Cianci as something between the embarrassment next door and an entertaining train wreck, but whatever you can say about the man, he never lacked chutzpah and charisma," wrote the Globe's Ty Burr. "The voters loved him, too, electing Cianci to a fourth term after he was convicted in the torture episode."
It's riveting stuff, at once a history lesson dripping with crime, betrayal, and intrigue, and a showcase of the art of storytelling and the narrative power of a well-produced podcast.
If season one wasn't enough to wet your whistle, the series is coming live to Boston this July.
"Join the Crimetown team for an evening with some of the wiseguys, cops, and other citizens of Providence whose stories brought the first season to life," the website writes of its live show July 15 at The Wilbur. "After a moderated discussion, the Crimetown delegation will take questions from the audience. You’ll get a chance to check out some bonus videos and photos from the Crimetown archives, and listen to some tracks from the Season One soundtrack."
Tickets start at $25; if the July shows in Providence are any indication, it's likely to sell out.
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