The Third Coast International Audio Festival (TCIAF) was created by Chicago Public Radio in 2000 to support producers and other artists creating audio documentary and feature work of all styles and to bring this fresh and vital work to audiences throughout the world. Inspired by the popularity of documentary film festivals in the U.S., and motivated by the lack of attention given to outstanding audio work, the organizers of the TCIAF created their own blueprint for a radio festival. The TCIAF is made up of seven distinct yet complementary elements that both radiomakers and the general public can enjoy:

Come to the Listening Room to listen to and discuss an eclectic assortment of audio work in a theater setting. Other events, such as performances and installations, are also regularly scheduled.

Tune in to Re:sound, a weekly radio program on Chicago Public Radio (91.5 FM) hosted by Gwen Macsai, showcasing intriguing radio stories culled from around the world. New and archived shows are always available or listen to the program Saturdays at 1pm, Sundays at 6am or online at chicagopublicradio.org.

Download our podcast, which presents a favorite Re:sound from the vast TCF archives or occasionally a special feature about a particular producer or style of production. Hosted by Delaney Hall, associate producer of Re:sound.

Enter the annual Third Coast Festival / Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Competition honoring the most creative and compelling audio work being produced worldwide. Cash prizes of up to $6000 are awarded for: Best Documentary (Gold, Silver, Bronze, Honorable Mention, Directors' Choice,) Best New Artist, Radio Impact, Best News Feature and for lifetime achievement in the field (Audio Luminary Award.)

Hear the annual Third Coast Festival Broadcast, featuring the winning documentaries of the Third Coast Festival / Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Competition.

Take part in the Third Coast Festival Audio Challenge which invites producers and listeners alike to explore the versatility and flexibility of the documentary form. Everyone is welcome to participate and all are encouraged to consider producing sound-rich stories ranging from literal to metaphorical, narrative to sound-rich, cultural to political. Four selections will be chosen as the Third Coast Festival ShortDocs, premiering in public at a Listening Room event in Chicago and for producers at our annual conference.

Attend the Third Coast Festival Conference held each year in Chicago. This is an opportunity for producers of all experience levels to explore the art and craft of making audio documentary and feature work.

Visit this site regularly to hear two new documentaries each month, read producer interviews, find links to other audio-rich websites and get the latest info on all aspects of the Third Coast Festival. If you have questions or comments, please contact us by email or call us at 312-948-4682.