A Prairie Home Companion News and Information
Posted 6/18/2009
A Prairie Home Companion is a live radio variety show hosted by Garrison Keillor, who often takes his show on the road for live performances across the country.
The radio show began on Minnesota Public Radio and is still heard on Saturday evenings nationally. Keillor became interested in the prospect when researching the Grand Ole Opry. While the first show only brought out twelve audience members, it became popular and has been on the air (and road) ever since.
Each show opens with "Tishomingo Blues” as the theme, and there is a strong American folk influence throughout the show, including country, bluegrass and blues. The rest of the show is made up of skits featuring Keillor and an ensemble. Popular skits include "Guy Noir, Private Eye,” "The Lives of Cowboys” and "News from Lake Wobegon.”
The show is also known for its "sponsors,” fictitious support from products such as Mournful Oatmeal, Raw Bits breakfast cereal and Ralphs Pretty Good Grocery Store.