Vanishing Point (CBC)


Vanishing Point is the title of a Canadian radio drama series produced and aired by CBC Radio from 1984 to 1986, and then under a variety of different subtitles until 1992. Created and produced by Bill Lane, Vanishing Point was the CBC’s follow-up to Nightfall, which had instilled new life into its many regional drama centers. Like that series, Vanishing Point drew from the CBC's entire coast to coast network, gathering together the CBC's finest production, engineering, writing, and acting talent to mount one of the better radio dramas in CBC history.
While primarily a science fiction series, the anthology presented a wide range of genres including thriller, horror, detective, psychological drama, comedy and even the occasional musical. A number of episodes were adaptations of short stories from famous authors like Ray Bradbury, Roald Dahl or Evelyn Waugh, but many were original plays from Canada’s top talent. Bill Lane workshopped plays from the winners of various Canadian literary competitions as a way of “reaching an audience by developing the talents of new playwrights.”

Format

The regular series ran for two seasons and began with a twice-a-week schedule, with a new episode airing each Friday on CBC-AM, and a re-run the following Monday on CBC Stereo.
The show took a hiatus in the summer of 1986 and returning in September with a six-episode adventure called The Black Persian, followed by a miniseries of modernized Nathaniel Hawthorne adaptations, setting a new direction for the series. Now Vanishing Point would act more as an umbrella program under which shorter miniseries would be developed. Some were serialized adaptations of classic science fiction works from authors like Arthur C. Clarke and Ursula K. Le Guin, while most were mini-anthologies, linked by a writer or theme. While still being promoted as Vanishing Point, these series all featured a unique title and opening. In some cases, two subseries ran simultaneously on different days of the week, creating considerable confusion for radio historians. Things continued like this for several years until Vanishing Point went off the air for good in January, 1992.

Episodes

Below is a full list of the first two seasons of Vanishing Point, followed by highlights from its more irregular later run. While the series repeated episodes quite a bit, most of these reruns aren't listed except when they help clarify. All episodes listed are around thirty minutes long.
#TitleNotesAirdate
1The Testing Of Stanley TeagardenOn holiday in Jamaica, a woman finds herself intrigued by a fellow traveler and his obsession with perfecting a personality test. But the more questions she asks, the more terrifying the answers become. Written by Tim Wynne-Jones.October 5, 1984
2DisappearanceA bartender's quest for spiritual enlightenment leads him to question the importance of the material world. But as he finds himself plagued by a host of baffling disappearances, he - and the listener - must finally question the nature of reality itself. Written by David HelwigOctober 12, 1984
3The RescueA pair of marine biologists struggle to connect with their autistic son. Could their solution be swimming right in front of them? Written by Rafael VigodOctober 19, 1984
4Death And The CompassThe mysterious murder of a Talmudic priest sends world famous Detective Lonnrot down a twisted path. Adapted by Alberto Manguel from the short story by Argentine writer and poet Jorge Luis BorgesOctober 26, 1984
5Cage Of LightThe year is 2116 and a mission to find intelligent life in the universe has gone awry when the sole survivor returns with no memory of his journey. Now a jury of scientists must go on their own mission: into his subconscious. Written by Bill GrayNovember 2, 1984
6The PlaygroundThe decision to enroll his son in a new play center forces a man to dig back into the pain of his own childhood. If only there were a way to spare his son the same trauma… Adaptation of Ray Bradbury's short story, dramatized by Martin LagerNovember 2, 1984
7The Bailiff And The WomenAfter a hard day's work in the Department of Social Welfare, it's a perfectly normal evening for Adrian Toope. That is, until he finds himself transported to a dream court, charged with a lifetime of crime. An acerbic work by Michael CookNovember 9, 1984
8The QuickeningLaura and Peter are the perfect couple; everyone tells them so. But after an evening of rising tensions among their upwardly mobile crowd, their relationship suddenly takes an irreversible turn. The results are both absurd and shocking in this powerful first venture into radio by Judith Thompson, the author of the stage plays The Crackwalker and White Biting DogNovember 16, 1984
9The Golden TriangleConvinced his ex-wife has become an exotic dancer in the red light district, a bitter misogynist makes his best friend an indecent proposal. Written by Lawrence RussellNovember 23, 1984
10The Silenian TestWhen a fleet of alien spacecrafts appear in Earth’s atmosphere, they bring the promise of an extraordinary new peace... and for one man, a horrifying sacrifice. Written by David Lewis SteinNovember 30, 1984
11Teenage Catalogue ModelA young girl’s disappearance kicks off a tense game of cat and mouse between a shrewd police detective and a peculiar older gentleman. Written by Kent ThompsonDecember 7, 1984
12How Love Came To Professor GuildeaA man of science is forced to question everything he believes when he finds himself pursued by a supernatural being. Robert Hichens' short story, dramatized by John DouglasDecember 14, 1984
13The CaveW. D. Valgardson narrates this autobiographical tale about his Icelandic girlfriend and the mysterious cave that’s obsessed her family for generations. Written by and starring W. D. ValgardsonDecember 21, 1984
14The Lost DoorA middle aged man discovers his home has vanished and he's lost proof of his existence. Written by Steve PetchDecember 28, 1984
15The Blue DevilA colony of women has survived a nuclear holocaust to create a new, matriarchal society, a world deliberately devoid of men. Written by Charles TidlerJanuary 4, 1985
16Point Of DepartureBefore leaving for a sun holiday, a woman is questioned by police about the husband she hasn't seen for five years. Written by Rachel WyattJanuary 11, 1985
17SkinA grasping art dealer spots the opportunity of a lifetime when he discovers a new work from a long-dead artist. Only problem? It’s tattooed to an old man’s back. Adaptation of Roald Dahl's macabre short story, dramatized by Arthur SamuelsJanuary 25, 1985
18Phase ThreeConvinced he’s about to be replaced by a robot, an assembly line worker turns to desperate measures to ensure his family's financial security. Written by Bradd BurninghamFebruary 1, 1985
19The AddictWhen her doctor refuses to prescribe any more pain medication, a paralegal falls into a downward spiral of crime, prostitution and maybe even murder. Written by George RygaFebruary 8, 1985
20Startex, B16-kAn outrageous satire about a “smart” coffee maker that first takes over a couple’s kitchen — then the world. Written by John PalmerFebruary 15, 1985
21MeteorEarth is being bombarded with meteor showers laden with the stardust of vanished solar systems. The earth has grown accustomed to these intrusions, humans have not. Adaptation of John Wyndham's short story, dramatized by David L. W. PittFebruary 22, 1985
22Zeppi's MachineA Trinidadian shop owner fights modernity by clinging to his folk remedies and received wisdom. But after a local robbery, will he turn to a computer to solve the crime? Written by Samuel SelvonMarch 1, 1985
23EvaluationTwo pilots, grounded in the frozen North by bad weather, succumb to the lure of a strange Inuit woman. Written by Steven FreygoodMarch 15, 1985
24Free To A Good HomeTom and Nancy promise one of the kittens they've advertised to their first caller. But the caller phoned before the newspaper ad even appeared, and seems to have an uncanny knowledge of the kitten's activities. Written by Paul MillikenMarch 22, 1985
25UluruOn holiday in the Australian outback, a careless tourist mocks aboriginal customs and sacred sites. She’s about to discover some ancient customs never went out of style… Written by Colleen CurranMarch 29, 1985
26The Third Bank Of The RiverA Brazilian tells the story of his father who decided to leave their family and the whole society to live within a small canoe on a huge river. Adaptation of João Guimarães Rosa's moving short story, dramatized by Whitney SmithApril 5, 1985
27Unlived LivesA series of creepy phone calls and mysterious letters force a mild-mannered theater owner to reconsider the choices he’s made in life. Written by David HelwigApril 12, 1985
28Ground ZeroTerrified he will lose everyone he loves in a nuclear holocaust, an advertising exec becomes obsessed with keeping his family safe. But could his solution be worse than the problem? Written by Bryan WadeApril 19, 1985
29MessagesA singer's telephone answering machine decides to take a hand in improving her career. Written by David KingApril 26, 1985
30The Shining PathLarry’s sleepwalking has been getting worse but his therapist doesn’t think it’s anything to worry about. Maybe he’ll change his mind when his wife is brutally murdered in the middle of the night. Written by Steve PetchMay 3, 1985
31The Yellow WallpaperCharlotte Perkins Gilman's classic tale of isolation and madness. Starring Mary Vingoe, who originally adapted this version for the stage at Toronto's Nightwood Theatre in 1981.May 10, 1985
32The Woman In Black VelvetA woman settling in Africa soon discovers she has much to learn about this strange new world… and the one beyond. Adaptation of “Joseph and His Brother,” Audrey Thomas’ eerie ghost story about neocolonialism. Music composed and performed by Obo AddyMay 17, 1985
33Seeing GodStruggling with depression, a young mother checks herself into a cutting-edge psychiatric clinic. But she may not be ready for Dr. Cameron’s more radical techniques. Based on the real-life psychological and mind control experiments of Dr. Ewan Cameron, whose work was funded by the CIA's MK Ultra program. Written by Carol Bolt. Final episode of Vanishing Points first season, replaced for the summer by a 13-week run of ZBS' The Cabinet of Dr. Fritz then a few episodes of ZBS' The Taj ExpressMay 24, 1985
34The Black SerpentVacationing on a Greek island, a woman has an encounter with a goddess. Written by Steve Petch. First episode of Vanishing Points second season.September 30, 1985
35Nightmare In Rabbit CityAn intergalactic rock opera about star-crossed lovers from warring planets. Text, music and lyrics by Keith McNair and performed by his musical group Sweet LipsOctober 7, 1985
36The Enormous RadioA couple in an apartment acquire an unusual radio which picks up conversations from their neighbors in the building. Could anyone resist the temptation to learn all their neighbors' secrets? Adaptation of John Cheever's short story, dramatized by Tim Wynne-JonesOctober 14, 1985
37Curse Of The Unnamed PlanetAn alien scout, disguised as a human child, is stranded on Earth. Later expanded into a four-part Vanishing Point miniseries in the Spring of 1987. Starring Saul Rubinek Written by Alfred SilverOctober 21, 1985
38Secret CeremonyA case of mistaken identity lands an aging prostitute in the ornate home of a mentality disabled young woman. Playing along as the woman’s deceased mother, she soon discovers Mom isn’t the only skeleton in this family’s closet. Adaptation of Marco Denevi’s short story "Ceremonia secreta" dramatized by Alberto ManguelOctober 28, 1985
39In The GrooveOn a motorcycle road trip, a man and his son meet a worker at a roadside diner who claims to have a dead girl's memories. Adapted from Audrey Thomas's short storyNovember 4, 1985
40Soft LandscapeA couple find themselves in trouble when they engage a strange pair of architects to build their dream house. Starring Saul Rubinek Written by Rachel WyattNovember 11, 1985
41The Nine Billion Names Of GodA computer programmer is hired by monks in Nepal to help them collect every possible name for the Almighty. A laughable project, with not so laughable consequences... Adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke's short storyNovember 18, 1985
42Shoot The UnicornA photojournalist tracks down a lost Amazonian tribe. Written by Charles TidlerNovember 25, 1985
43The Language Of The FlowersA keen gardener becomes obsessed with a strange, exotic orchid. Adaptation of Hugh Atkinson's novellaDecember 2, 1985
44The Last 30 Days Of Charles L. DanforthAn accountant believes he and everyone around him are slowly turning into fish. Written by Clem MartiniDecember 9, 1985
45Past ImperfectAn inventor's ruthless, self-seeking nephew turns the tables on him with the aid of his new time machine. But time is not something easily trifled with... Written by John DouglasDecember 16, 1985
46The Count's WifeGiorgio's young wife Lucina starts to sprout wings. Adaptation of Dino Buzzati's short story, dramatized by Cindy BisaillonDecember 23, 1985
47Children's EyesA visit to his aging parents sends a man into a downward spiral, obsessing over his father’s grotesque physical ailments. But what’s real and what’s in his mind? Written by Dennis FoonDecember 30, 1985
48Split SecondA woman returns home from a walk to find strangers living in her house, and no-one knows who she is. Adaptation of Daphne du Maurier's short story, dramatized by Desmond ScottJanuary 6, 1986
49Mom's Home CookingA busload of senior citizens on a Canadian “mystery tour” get a whole lot more than they bargained for. Written by Kent ThompsonJanuary 13, 1986
50A Kissing WayAfter-work drinks become a terrifying fight for survival when a young woman’s coworker turns out to be an unhinged psychopath. Written by Judith ThompsonJanuary 20, 1986
51The Man Who Liked DickensImagine the great relief of Mr. Henry, to be rescued in remotest Amazonas from an ill-fated jungle expedition. And imagine the great delight of Mr. McMaster, his reclusive host, at finding someone to share the pleasures of his small but precious library... Adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's tale of jungle terror, dramatized by Alberto ManguelJanuary 27, 1986
52Snow Shadow AreaThe storm of the century and a series of child mutilations send an anxious father to the brink of madness. Written by Lawrence RussellFebruary 3, 1986
53A Small, Good ThingAdaptation of Raymond Carver's heartbreaking short story about a car accident and a forgotten birthday cake. Dramatized by Steve PetchFebruary 10, 1986
54I'm A Stranger Here MyselfAfter giving birth, a new mother becomes convinced she is actually an alien. Written by February 17, 1986
55Looking For A Quiet PlaceIs Mary's problem noise, or Nick? Written by Rachel WyattFebruary 24, 1986
56Azure BlueA married couple's long-simmering hatred for one another boils over when an unexpected tragedy strikes. Is this exactly the change they've always needed? Written by Lawrence JefferyMarch 3, 1986
57AntimonyRomance does not survive a woman's cryogenic freezing when she is revived in the future. Adaptation of Spider Robinson's story, dramatized by Kent StetsonMarch 10, 1986
58All The WayAn obsessive young actor walks the line between illusion and reality when he takes a leading role in a staged crime. Written by Bill GrayMarch 17, 1986
59A Silent AgreementLike father, like son. Henry Worring wants only what's best for his son -- so why does Tom insist on doing things his own way? And why, on the eve of Tom's visit home, does Henry feel so unaccountably apprehensive? An eerie original story. Written by Hans BöggildMarch 24, 1986
60The Ultimate ThresholdOn the Planet Sym-Kri there stands the House of Death, built by a master mechanic named Velt. Now Velt himself stands before that final door to face the challenge of his own creation. A paradoxical story by Herman Maximov, an important writer of science fiction from the Soviet Republic of Kazakhstan. Dramatized by Seth FeldmanMarch 31, 1986
61The Rising Of The NorthChildren's show 'What If?' examines the US President's radical plan to tackle his country's water shortage. Written by Michael RiordanMay 5, 1986
62Death Of A PhysicistA physicist attempts to calculate the best way to join a loved one in the afterlife. Written by Christina Meeker & Peter SchultzMay 12, 1986
63A Communicable DiseaseAn outbreak of a new, fatal disease seems to affect only yuppies. Written by Larry FinebergMay 19, 1986
64Closing NightThe director of a traveling theatre company encounters a strangely familiar ghost in a rundown hotel. Written by Warren GravesMay 26, 1986
65The Right OneOn his wedding day, a reluctant groom weighs his options. Written by Bryan Wade, who was then commissioned by the Blyth Festival of Ontario to expand it into a stage play in 1989.June 2, 1986
66The Doctor of the SoulA renowned psychiatrist takes on a new patient and she’s soon working her way under his skin... and into his dreams. Written by David HelwigJune 9, 1986
67The Most Beautiful Woman in TownA tobacco-stained writer finds himself consumed by the passion and chaos of a self-destructive street prostitute. Adaptation of Charles Bukowski's short story, dramatized by & and starring Mina.June 16, 1986
68Open WideAn anxious man’s first trip to the dentist in years sets off a nightmarish chain of events. Recorded with "Kunstkopf binaural sound" for an immersive, stereo experience. Written by Paul MillikenJune 23, 1986
69Certain Distant SunsHannah's aunt Bessie suffers the consequences when she loses her belief in just about everything. Written by Joanne Greenberg. Final episode of Vanishing Points second season, they run a mix of reruns and Nightfall episodes over the summer.June 30, 1986
XXThe AfricanThe Black Persian #1: A fantastic mystery adventure set in 19th-century Africa. Written by Steve Petch. This episode begins Vanishing Points third season, shifting the series towards serialized storytelling and short-run miniseries. It continues its twice-a-week broadcast schedule, sometimes premiering new episodes on Mondays, sometimes on Fridays.September 29, 1986
XXJourney to the InteriorThe Black Persian #2: Written by Steve PetchOctober 6, 1986
XXA Thousand NightsThe Black Persian #3: McRae awakens in the camp of the Tuareg women, the people of the veil… and discovers himself mistaken for one of the Persian Brotherhood of Assassins. Written by Steve PetchOctober 13, 1986
XXThe Shifting SandsThe Black Persian #4: Written by Steve PetchOctober 20, 1986
XXThe Dark ChamberThe Black Persian #5: Written by Steve PetchOctober 27, 1986
XXThe Sacred PrecinctThe Black Persian #6: McRae's quest takes him from a genteel English tour boat, to the majestic pyramids, to the bathhouses of Cairo, to an extraordinary, long-awaited meeting. Conclusion. Written by Steve PetchNovember 3, 1986
XXRadio Free ImaginationFifty years in the future, radio has gone underground. The Crystal Creeps are secretly broadcasting treasures from the CBC Archives... and the Media Monitors are after them. It's Freddy Bondhead's mission to infiltrate the enemy.... An offbeat celebration of 50 years of CBC broadcasting — and of the radio medium itself. Written by David Lewis SteinNovember 10, 1986
XXThe Artist of the BeautifulThrice Told Tales #1: A series of dramas freely adapted from Nathaniel Hawthorne. From Haitian voodoo... to a nuclear-winter garden... to a microcomputer butterfly... to a bizarre gift bringing dubious good fortune... this eccentric mini-anthology imaginatively explores the radio medium and finds new-wave twists in some old-fashioned stories. In this installment, Owen Warland is a microelectronics genius famous for inventing the first commercially viable freestanding domestic robot. Unimpressed with his achievement, Owen rejects the practical world and its material rewards to pursue the making of his own private Frankenstein. Instead of a monster that's big and ugly, he attempts in the form of a miniature butterfly to create life that is small and beautiful: Adapted by Charles Tidler from Nathaniel Hawthorne's short storyNovember 17, 1986
XXNever Marry a SpiderThrice Told Tales #2: Did you hear the one about the man who left home one day, without a word to his wife, and turned up again 20 years later? Sure, it's easy to go out the back door of life - but watch that it doesn't slam shut. Adapted by Charles Tidler from Nathaniel Hawthorne's short storyNovember 24, 1986
XXRappaccini’s DaughterThrice Told Tales #3: After a lifetime's work helping her father breed plants which can withstand a nuclear winter, Professor Rappaccini's daughter has become toxic. Adapted by Charles Tidler from Nathaniel Hawthorne's short storyDecember 1, 1986
XXThe Headless ClownThrice Told Tales #4: An unemployed cobbler's luck turns when he comes into possession of a talking clown-head doll. Adapted by Charles Tidler from Nathaniel Hawthorne's short storyDecember 8, 1986
XXDeep DesireThrice Told Tales #5: A television evangelist believes he is possessed by a demon snake. Adapted by Charles Tidler from Nathaniel Hawthorne's short storyDecember 15, 1986
XXStrange ChildThrice Told Tales #6: A science fiction writer's young daughter doesn't seem the same following an encounter with a UFO. Adapted by Charles Tidler from Nathaniel Hawthorne's short storyDecember 22, 1986
XXBlood Music Part 1 of 3A scientist injects himself with test-tube genes that give each of his blood cells the ability to think. As the cells multiply, societies develop within him and eventually escape to the outside world. The highly intelligent cells discover subatomic truths, thus acquiring the power of gods. Will they decide it's time to redo the world? Greg Bear's gripping science fiction novel adapted by Toronto playwright Clinton BomphrayJanuary 2, 1987
XXBlood Music Part 2 of 3Second of a three-part dramatization of Greg Bear's stunning work of speculative fiction concerning the creation of "intelligent cells" capable of taking over an entire body. Adapted by Clinton BomphrayJanuary 9, 1987
XXBlood Music Part 3 of 3Conclusion of a three-part dramatization of Greg Bear's novel, adapted by Clinton BomphrayJanuary 16, 1987
XXA Few Words From HaroldEscape Routes #1: An eccentric collection of original stories by leading radio dramatist Rachel Wyatt. The thought of escape is appealing. We've all wanted to escape sometimes from aspects of life that are unpleasant or difficult or just plain dull. But for some people, escape takes unusual forms-with unexpected results. In this first installment — Harold was a nice guy: kind to his wife, honest in his business dealings, polite to people he disliked. In his spare time he enjoyed reading biographies of the great and not -so -great. But he couldn't help noticing that his own life lacked those vital elements of a good life: passion, striking coincidences, heroic moments, sudden wealth, startling revelations. Then Harold decided to change all that... Written by Rachel WyattJanuary 23, 1987
XXEverything She WantsEscape Routes #2: If you’ve ever seen one of those movie chase scenes where the runner keeps throwing blocks in the path of his pursuer, you’ll understand why Steve kept buying extravagant gifts for Lisa. It was his way of not having to say “I love you.” He may have gone a bit overboard… but can you fault a guy who tries to give his wife everything she wants? Written by Rachel WyattJanuary 30, 1987
XXLooking for a Quiet PlaceEscape Routes #3: Nick loved Mary. He also loved his stereo, his motorbike and all the wonderful noisy gadgetry that made up their life together. Mary was crazy about Nick -- but she wanted a little peace and quiet. Was that too much to ask? Written by Rachel WyattFebruary 6, 1987
XXUltimate DestinationEscape Routes #4: Written by Rachel WyattFebruary 13, 1987
XXTango on Two ContinentsWritten by Paul Thompson and John JarvisFebruary 16, 1987
XXStrange ArchaeologyFingerprints #1: A series of original mysteries, dramatized from the 1984 Crime Writers of Canada story collection also titled Fingerprints. These cleverly crafted tales range in style from the comic to the philosophical, each as individual as a fingerprint. In this first installment, the death of a beautiful woman forces Lieutenant Boruvka to reopen a case he thought he’d solved 11 years ago. And the most meaningful clue comes from a crime five centuries old… Adaptation of Josef Skvorecky, dramatized by Paul WilsonFebruary 20, 1987
XXA Natural DeathFingerprints #2: Emily Forbes’ weekdays unfold in an unvarying routine. She breakfasts with the newspaper at eight, tidies from nine to eleven, then shops until her one o’clock lunch. Between lunch and tea she plans to murder her daughter-in-law… An ironic tale by the London, Ontario mystery writer and reviewer Sandra Woodruff, dramatized by Colleen CurranFebruary 27, 1987
XXMy Vacation from the Numbers RacketFingerprints #3: “Dear Benny: You’ll be surprised to hear that your father and I are in Sarasota. I meant to send you a postcard from Miami, but things just happened too fast. Right from the beginning, this winter we’ve spent in Florida…” This story by the creator of the acclaimed Benny Cooperman novels features Benny’s mother. Adaptation of Howard Engel's short story, dramatized by March 6, 1987
XXThe CapitalistFingerprints #4: A cold November night. Not much action at the gas pumps, but Ryan and his Uncle Gordon have to mind the station anyway. No gloves, no hat, no car — Ryan has plenty to complain about. Maybe he’ll just teach that snotty welfare worker what it’s like to have nothing… A crafty little story from British Columbia novelist Marion Crook, dramatized by Paul MillikenMarch 13, 1987
XXMcGowney's MiracleFingerprints #5: Adapted from a story by Margaret MillarMarch 20, 1987
XXSt. Anthony's ManFingerprints #6: Adapted from a story by Tim Wynne-JonesMarch 27, 1987
XXMardi GrasWritten by April 3, 1987
XXLucky GirlSecond prize winner of the CBC Literary Competition, was inspired to write the play after spending time in rural Alberta's small-town country and western bars, which he referred to as "a dramatic goldmine." In 1989, Pengilly expanded it into a stage play at the Red Deer College Arts Theatre in Alberta, Canada, where it featured a live country band on the stage, playing songs written especially for the show. It also featured actors entering the set through a larger-than-life jukebox.April 10, 1987
XXMortalWith her father hospitalized and her relationship in critical condition, a woman is forced to make some impossible choices as we’re given a front row seat to her darkest thoughts. Written by Cordelia StrubeApril 17, 1987
XXThe Truth About PyecraftThe Menu is the Venue #1: A collection of dark stories about food. The first installment is an adaptation of H. G. Wells' humorous story about an obese man's extreme attempt at weight loss.April 24, 1987
XXBrowniesThe Menu is the Venue #2: Friday night: Doreen’s old fashioned brownies, walnut-studded, thickly iced. Saturday, fresh pancakes with Lily’s famous blueberry syrup. Sunday, the all-you-can-eat buffet at the Royal Restaurant. Monday, hot chelsea buns… and this week, a special thrill in the mail: the long-awaited Treat of the Month. Mother and the girls enjoy a life of delicious routine — until Doreen perversely disrupts it. A contemporary gothic comedy by award-winning writer Linda Zwicker.May 1, 1986
XXFood for ThoughtThe Menu is the Venue #3: Tyler Crawford - one-time space prospector, daring drillship commander. Once he chased asteroids, gambling with his life; now he plays a different sort of odds, grounded in a prison of fat. Does that make him any less of a man? And how can that imprisoning wall of blubber really be his ticket to freedom? An original science fiction story with a twist. Written by Henry MietkiewiczMay 8, 1987
XXCurse of the Unnamed PlanetThe Unnamed Planet Tetralogy #1: Mix sci-fi satire with pick-up bar banter and you’ve got The Unnamed Planet Tetralogy, an alien’s view of Earth. In this first installment, a drink to forget turns into a night to remember as Flanno recalls marooned Scout-Agent X-12’s horrific reports from primitive Unnamed Planet… the place of only two sexes! Starring Saul Rubinek. Written by Alfred SilverMay 15, 1987
XXReturn to the Unnamed PlanetThe Unnamed Planet Tetralogy #2: An unauthorized rescue mission in a stolen space pod lands the bizarre quintet on the loathsome Unnamed Planet. Step one is transmogrification into the planet’s dominant species… but with a power-mad bardroid at the console controls, the results are near disastrous. Starring Saul Rubinek. Written by Alfred SilverMay 22, 1987
XXRescue on the Unnamed PlanetThe Unnamed Planet Tetralogy #3: The bardroid’s inept transmogrification leads to further comic trouble on the Unnamed Planet. Then an accidental rescue turns into an unexpected reunion, as the Ecologizer appears on the scene. Starring Saul Rubinek. Written by Alfred SilverMay 29, 1987
XXRevenge of the Unnamed PlanetThe Unnamed Planet Tetralogy #4: The final installment. Starring Saul Rubinek. Written by Alfred SilverJune 5, 1987
XXThe Dispossessed Part 1 of 6Shevek, the greatest scientist of the age, travels from his home planet of Anarres to the neighbouring planet of Urras. He is the first visitor from Anarres in two hundred years and suffers a profound culture shock on arrival. Unbeknown to Shevek, the authorities on Urras have an ulterior motive for inviting the great man. Based on the novel by Ursula K. Le GuinJune 12, 1987
XXThe Dispossessed Part 2 of 6A flashback to his youth finds Shevek planting trees in the desert, as part of a work gang on his anarcho-syndicalist planet. Later, he attends the physics institute and finds that some citizens don't put the needs of society ahead of their own personal gain.June 19, 1987
XXThe Dispossessed Part 3 of 6Shevek attends a party and learns more about the class-based, sexist and capitalist society of Urras. He receives a note urging him to meet with the opposition anarchist underground.June 26, 1987
XXThe Dispossessed Part 4 of 6Following rebellion on the outer planets, Urras is in a state of emergency. Shevek is under pressure to complete his Theory of Simultaneity, which will allow faster than light travel and enable the government to crush the rebellion. In a flashback, we find Shevek and his family battling drought and famine on Anarres.July 3, 1987
XXThe Dispossessed - Part 5 of 6Escaping house arrest, Shevek joins the anarchist-socialist resistance in an uprising against the police state.July 10, 1987
XXThe Dispossessed - Part 6 of 6The uprising on Urras is viciously suppressed by the authorities. Shevek takes refuge in the Terran embassy, where he is assured of safe passage back to Anarres. He completes his Theory of Simultaneity and gives it away freely to all worlds, such that none will have an advantage over the others. Conclusion of The Dispossessed and Vanishing Point’s third season. It goes on hiatus, replaced by ZBS' The Adventures of Ruby.July 17, 1987
XXAlligators in the LakeA low-rent P.I. opens his door to the wrong client and soon finds himself sucked deep into the delusional swamp of a wealthy dermatologist and his paranoid wife. Written by Sally ClarkOctober 19, 1987
XXJourney to a Secret SeaThe discovery of an underground ocean sends a pair of oceanographers trekking into the darkest corners of the earth... and their own souls. Written by Geoffrey UrsellOctober 26, 1987
XXHair of the DogWhen a radio director makes the mistake of declaring war on the station’s veteran sound effects man, she soon discovers he has more in his arsenal than rusty hinges and coconut shells. Written by J.J. McCollNovember 23, 1987
XXThe Rawhide HourMeet Roy Boy Long, a radio DJ and former rodeo clown who’s always quick on the draw with a tall tale or a wild sound effect in ’s spiritual sequel to his radio play "Lucky Girl" which played on Vanishing Point in April, 1987.November 30, 1987
XXFreefall-December 7, 1987
XXFaceoffsWritten by Carol ShieldsDecember 14, 1987
XXFleshtoneA series of unexplained supernovae cause an astronomer to rethink his views on religion in this surprisingly sweet Christmas episode. Written by Bill Van LuvenDecember 21, 1987
XXMr. Grendelton Crashes A PartyAn alien from another dimension gatecrashes a party in an attempt to find his way home. Written by Tim Wynne-JonesDecember 28, 1987
XXRosaThe Valley of the Shadow: A Trilogy by Audrey ThomasJanuary 4, 1988
XXMr. JohnsonThe Valley of the Shadow #2: Written by Audrey ThomasJanuary 11, 1988
XXIllusionsThe Valley of the Shadow #3: Written by Audrey ThomasJanuary 18, 1988
XXVitaminsAdaptation of Raymond Carver's short storyFebruary 1, 1988
XXCathedralAdaptation of Raymond Carver's short storyFebruary 8, 1988
XXThe Smyth-JonesesA comedy set in Lower Westmount and produced in Montreal. Written by Colleen CurranFebruary 15, 1988
XXThe Man Who Thought Ian Tyson Was GodWritten by Alfred SilverFebruary 29, 1988
XXThe Word for World is Forest Part 1 of 3Adaptation of the novella by Ursula K. Le GuinMarch 18, 1988
XXThe Word for World is Forest Part 2 of 3Adaptation of the novella by Ursula K. Le GuinMarch 25, 1988
XXTrain to MontrealWritten by Dionne BrandMarch 28, 1988
XXThe Word for World is Forest Part 3 of 3Adaptation of the novella by Ursula K. Le GuinApril 1, 1988
XXDancingWritten by Neil BissoondathApril 4, 1988
XXDrifterWritten by David WiddicombeApril 15, 1988
XXEarth CultureWritten by Keith McNairApril 18, 1988
XXDirty HandsWritten by Michael RiordanApril 22, 1988
XXThe Rat AgendaWritten by Michael RiordanApril 29, 1988
XXCan You Hear Me?Written by Michael RiordanMay 6, 1988
XXRubber BallA whimsical fable about a poet who goes over Niagara Falls in a rubber ball. Adaptation of Victor-Lévy Beaulieu's story, dramatized by Dave CarleyMay 13, 1988
XXSomebody Talking to YouA media consultant chases down "addictive cassettes" that somehow hook the listener, then make them disappear completely. All that's left of them? A voice on a cassette. Written by Jeff Green and originally released as part of his Soundings Canadian radio drama seriesMay 16, 1988
XXRestorationWritten by Frank MoherMay 20, 1988
XXScar TissueWritten by Cordelia StrubeMay 27, 1988
XXThe BabyWritten by June 3, 1988
XXDaddyStory of a man who suddenly develops amnesia. Written by Vassilis AlexakisJune 10, 1988
XXThe SightA man’s housekeeper knows things about him that he doesn’t know himself. Written by Brian MooreJune 17, 1988
XXThe Unknown SoldierAn unusual Vietnam War story. Written by David WiddicombeJune 20, 1988
XXSpeechlessWritten by David SwickJune 24, 1988
XXWhen the Bough BreaksJune 27, 1988
XXStory of King KongFinal episode of Vanishing Point’s fourth season. ZBS' Dreams of Rio from Thomas Lopez runs as the summer replacementJuly 7, 1988
XXThe AfricanThe Black Persian #1: An early return for season five of Vanishing Point with a rerun of Steve Petch’s 6-episode serial set in 19th-century Africa. Only this time it’s followed by 6 new episodes. Written by Steve PetchAugust 12, 1988
XXJourney to the InteriorThe Black Persian #2: RepeatAugust 19, 1988
XXA Thousand NightsThe Black Persian #3: RepeatAugust 26, 1988
XXThe Shifting SandsThe Black Persian #4: RepeatSeptember 2, 1988
XXThe Sacred PrecinctThe Black Persian #5: RepeatSeptember 15, 1988
XXThe Dark ChamberThe Black Persian #6: RepeatOctober 3, 1988
XXThe DeceiversThe Black Persian #7: New episodes begin. Written by Steve PetchOctober 10, 1988
XXThe RoadThe Black Persian #8: Written by Steve PetchOctober 17, 1988
XXThe GoddessThe Black Persian #9: Written by Steve PetchOctober 24, 1988
XXSanctuaryThe Black Persian #10: Written by Steve PetchOctober 31, 1988
XXDark WatersThe Black Persian #11: Written by Steve PetchNovember 7, 1988
XXEscapementThe Stories of J. G. Ballard #1: A man becomes trapped in a time loop. Based on the short story by J. G. BallardNovember 14, 1988
XXThe Man Who Collected WomenNew Alberta Voices #1: Series featuring winners of the second annual Write for Radio competition sponsored by the CBC and the Alberta Department of Culture and Multiculturalism. Written by Rose Scollard, she won first prize for this play. Vanishing Point has begun running on Sundays and Mondays rather than Fridays and Mondays.November 20, 1988
XXDead AstronautThe Stories of J. G. Ballard #2November 21, 1988
XXKing Of Another PlaceNew Alberta Voices #2: A mentally ill man believes he can save the world from disaster. Written by Brad Fraser & Geoffrey HershfieldNovember 27, 1988
XXThe Cloud Sculptors of Coral DThe Stories of J. G. Ballard #3: A group of artistic pilots carve cloud sculptures with gliders. Based on the short story by J. G. BallardNovember 28, 1988
XXThe Dinosaur ConnectionNew Alberta Voices #3: On a post-apocalyptic Earth, a technician on an expedition from a domed city meets 'outlanders' for the first time. Written by Cecilia FryDecember 4, 1988
XXLow Flying AircraftThe Stories of J. G. Ballard #4: In a world in which the population has fallen dramatically as more and more babies are born deformed, Forrester and his wife Judith await news of her latest pregnancy. Based on the short story by J. G. BallardDecember 5, 1988
XXA Question of Re-entryThe Stories of J. G. Ballard #5: An investigator, searching for a missing astronaut in the Amazon Jungle, gets caught up in a power struggle between a missionary, who has gone native, and a witch doctor's son. Based on the short story by J. G. BallardDecember 12, 1988
XXNews From The SunThe Stories of J. G. Ballard #6: In a near future world, a mysterious mental plague causes people to enter fugue states for increasing lengths of time. Based on the short story by J. G. BallardDecember 19, 1988
XXHaving A Wonderful TimeThe Stories of J. G. Ballard #7: A couple's luxury holiday in the Canary Islands just seems to go on and on and on… Based on the short story by J. G. BallardDecember 26, 1988
XXThe Best Show on TelevisionFables of the Near Future #1: Written by David WiddicombeJanuary 2, 1989
XXProject: GeminiFables of the Near Future #2: An experimental program pairs up elderly people as housemates. Written by Paul MillikenJanuary 9, 1989
XXMaroonedFables of the Near Future #3: Shopping malls are getting bigger and better all the time. Once you're inside, you might never want to leave... Written by Steven FreygoodJanuary 16, 1989
XXSatan's ChildrenFables of the Near Future #4: Adaptation of Spider Robinson’s short storyJanuary 23, 1989
XXHarvest of the SunFables of the Near Future #5: A futuristic story set on the Prairies. Written by January 30, 1989
XXOf Machines and MenFables of the Near Future #6: Written by David WiddicombeFebruary 6, 1989
XXThe ChosenFables of the Near Future #7: Written by Rose ScollardFebruary 13, 1989
XXVanishing ChildFables of the Near Future #8: Written by Raymond StoreyFebruary 20, 1989
XXJade SpiritWritten by Susan MayseMarch 12, 1989
XXMarriage GuidanceThe Doctor's Casebook #1: A wildly comic exposé of medicine on the run, starring Steven Bush as a doctor who just can’t rest on his laurels. Written by Rachel WyattApril 17, 1989
XXEmpty Waiting RoomThe Doctor's Casebook #2: Written by Rachel WyattApril 24, 1989
XXA Healthy Way to DieThe Doctor's Casebook #3: Written by Rachel WyattMay 1, 1989
XXNothing Like Sea AirThe Doctor's Casebook #4: Written by Rachel WyattMay 8, 1989
XXA Case in PointThe Doctor's Casebook #5: Written by Rachel WyattMay 15, 1989
XXA Way With ChildrenThe Doctor's Casebook #6: Written by Rachel WyattMay 22, 1989
XXMarcoPocket Musicals #1: First of a two-part portrait of Marco Solares, legendary singer/songwriter turned revolutionary. Written by June 5, 1989
XXThe Curve of HeavenPocket Musicals #2: Written by Larry FinebergJune 12, 1989
XXMarco Part 2Pocket Musicals #3: Conclusion of a two-part portrait of Marco Solares, legendary singer/songwriter turned revolutionary. Written by June 19, 1989
XXThe Man Who Went Home AgainTime Again #1: Written by Charles TidlerSeptember 11, 1989
XXThe RavineTime Again #2: Written by David BoltSeptember 18, 1989
XXSightseeingTime Again #3: Adaption of David Bolt’s short story, dramatized by September 25, 1989
XXPast DueWritten by Cordelia StrubeOctober 2, 1989
XXOn the BeachJourneyOctober 6, 1989
XXTrainJourneyOctober 9, 1989
XXFlightJourney: Written by James DunnisonOctober 16, 1989
XXLisdoonvarnaJourneyOctober 23, 1989
XXThe SouthJourney: Adaptation of Jorge Luis Borges's short story, dramatized by Alberto ManguelOctober 30, 1989
XXSong of the MahgrebJourney: Written by Lawrence RussellNovember 13 1989
XXChildhood's End Part 1 of 5Adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke's novel, dramatized by David Lewis SteinNovember 20, 1989
XXChildhood's End Part 2 of 5Adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke's novel, dramatized by David Lewis SteinNovember 27, 1989
XXChildhood's End Part 3 of 5Adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke's novel, dramatized by David Lewis SteinDecember 4, 1989
XXChildhood's End Part 4 of 5Adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke's novel, dramatized by David Lewis SteinDecember 11, 1989
XXChildhood's End Part 5 of 5Adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke's novel, dramatized by David Lewis SteinDecember 18, 1989
XXBabysitterUrban Legends #1: Written by J. J. McCollJanuary 1, 1990
XXWhiteoutUrban Legends #2: The tale of a mysterious hitchhiker. Written by David BoltJanuary 8, 1990
XXThe PetUrban Legends #3: Written by David WiddicombeJanuary 15, 1990
XXTurns for the WorstUrban Legends #4: Written by Sherman SnukalJanuary 22, 1990
XX11:52Urban Legends #5: Written by Bill Van LuvenJanuary 29, 1990
XXMonster in the SewerUrban Legends #6: Written by David WiddicombeFebruary 5, 1990
XXKiss the Bride GoodbyeUrban Legends #7: Written by Colleen CurranFebruary 12, 1990
XXTrespassingUrban Legends #8: Written by Patricia LudwickFebruary 19, 1990
XXIsland at NoonThe Stories of Julio Cortázar #1: Adaptation of Julio Cortázar's short story, dramatized by Alberto ManguelFebruary 26, 1990
XXInstructions For John HowellThe Stories of Julio Cortázar #2: Adaptation of Julio Cortázar's short story, dramatized by Alberto ManguelMarch 5, 1990
XXAfter LunchThe Stories of Julio Cortázar #3: Adaptation of Julio Cortázar's short story, dramatized by Alberto ManguelMarch 12, 1990
XXSouthern ThruwayThe Stories of Julio Cortázar #4: Adaptation of Julio Cortázar's short story, dramatized by Alberto ManguelMarch 19, 1990
XXSummerThe Stories of Julio Cortázar #5: Adaptation of Julio Cortázar's short story, dramatized by Alberto ManguelMarch 26, 1990
XXPress ClippingsThe Stories of Julio Cortázar #6: Adaptation of Julio Cortázar's short story, dramatized by Alberto ManguelApril 2, 1990
XXBlowupThe Stories of Julio Cortázar #7: Adaptation of Julio Cortázar's short story, dramatized by Alberto ManguelApril 9, 1990
XXTimbuktuGetting There #1: Written by Audrey ThomasApril 16, 1990
XXAnd the Ship Sailed OnGetting There #2: Written by Audrey ThomasApril 23, 1990
XXPeople in Glass HousesGetting There #3: Written by Audrey ThomasApril 30, 1990
XXSleep EndersNew Alberta Voices: Written by Fran KimmelMay 7, 1990
XXMeeting with Mr. SkunkNew Alberta Voices: Written by James GalbraithMay 14, 1990
XXHoney CatNew Alberta Voices: Written by . Final episode of Vanishing Point’s fifth season. The series goes on hiatus for a 14-week run of The Best of Vanishing PointMay 21, 1990
XXMarriage GuidanceThe Doctor's Casebook #1: Written by Rachel Wyatt. Vanishing Point opens its sixth season with reruns of two miniseries — The Doctor’s Casebook and The Black Persian — running simultaneously on two different days of the week. Both series also include new episodes building off the initial run.September 2, 1990
XXThe AfricanThe Black Persian #1: RepeatSeptember 3, 1990
XXEmpty Waiting RoomThe Doctor's Casebook #2: RepeatSeptember 9, 1990
XXJourney to the InteriorThe Black Persian #2: RepeatSeptember 10, 1990
XXA Healthy Way to DieThe Doctor's Casebook #3: RepeatSeptember 16, 1990
XXA Thousand NightsThe Black Persian #3: RepeatSeptember 17 1990
XXNothing Like Sea AirThe Doctor's Casebook #4: RepeatSeptember 23, 1990
XXThe Shifting SandsThe Black Persian #4: RepeatSeptember 24, 1990
XXA Case in PointThe Doctor's Casebook #5: RepeatSeptember 30, 1990
XXThe Sacred PrecinctThe Black Persian #5: RepeatOctober 1, 1990
XXA Way With ChildrenThe Doctor's Casebook #6: RepeatOctober 7, 1990
XXThe Dark ChamberThe Black Persian #6: RepeatOctober 8, 1990
XXHealth ServiceThe Doctor's Casebook #7: New episodes begin. Written by Rachel WyattOctober 14, 1990
XXThe DeceiversThe Black Persian #7: RepeatOctober 15, 1990
XXCharity BeginsThe Doctor's Casebook #8: Written by Rachel WyattOctober 21, 1990
XXThe RoadThe Black Persian #8: RepeatOctober 22, 1990
XXParadiseThe Doctor's Casebook #9: Written by Rachel Wyatt. Final episode of current run of The Doctor’s Casebook as Vanishing Point switches back to a once-a-week format. Doctor’s Casebook will return in 1991.October 28, 1990
XXThe GoddessThe Black Persian #9: RepeatNovember 5, 1990
XXSanctuaryThe Black Persian #10: RepeatNovember 12, 1990
XXDark WatersThe Black Persian #11: RepeatNovember 19, 1990
XXUnder the WavesThe Black Persian #12: New episodes begin. Written by Steve PetchNovember 26, 1990
XXThe IslandThe Black Persian #13: Written by Steve PetchDecember 3, 1990
XXThe Living DeadThe Black Persian #14: Written by Steve PetchDecember 10, 1990
XXOn Becoming a WidowNew Manitoba Voices: Written by Bill HarrarJanuary 7, 1991
XXThe Last Chance SaloonNew Manitoba Voices: Written by Craig DixJanuary 14, 1991
XXThe Elysian FieldsNew Manitoba Voices: Written by Ruth Andrishak and Nancy McKinnonJanuary 21, 1991
XXLast of the Great Rock LegendsWritten by David WiddicombeJuly 15, 1991
XXOh, for the Love of an Intelligent BuildingFables of the Near Future: Written by James WallerAugust 5, 1991
XXStepping Onto the FutureFables of the Near Future: Written by Jean YoonAugust 12, 1991
XXThe Last MailmanFables of the Near Future: Written by Paul MillikenAugust 26, 1991
XXEspressoFables of the Near Future: Written by September 2, 1991
XXHide and SeekFables of the Near Future: Written by C. Davidson and S. BrownSeptember 9, 1991
XXLove on a Colder Planet Part 1Written by Jeff RosenSeptember 23, 1991
XXLove on a Colder Planet Part 2Written by Jeff RosenSeptember 30, 1991
XXLove on a Colder Planet Part 3Written by Jeff Rosen. Vanishing Point switches back to Friday nights on CBC-AM.October 11, 1991
XXThe Woman Who Loved PumpkinsThe Doctor's Casebook: Written by Rachel WyattOctober 18, 1991
XXThat Family FeelingThe Doctor's Casebook: Written by Rachel WyattOctober 25, 1991
XXTo Sea in a Pea-Green BoatThe Doctor's Casebook: Written by Rachel WyattNovember 1, 1991
XXThe Man Who Dreamed in Djemma el FnaIn the Dream Time #1: Plays about dreams and dreaming. In this installment, a young man dreams of losing himself in the “real” Morocco, but the dream comes frighteningly true when he reaches Djemma el Fna — the “assembly of the dead.” Written by Steve PetchNovember 8, 1991
XXFeast of the DeadIn the Dream Time #2: The story of an Indian man who rejects his past until he takes a journey out of the city. Written by Daniel David MosesNovember 15, 1991
XXFinal ExamIn the Dream Time #3: Written by Wes SchreiberNovember 22, 1991
XXThe ShoutIn the Dream Time #4: Adaptation of Robert Graves' short storyNovember 29, 1991
XXThe BearIn the Dream Time #5: Written by December 6, 1991
XXA Dream WithinIn the Dream Time #6: Written by James R. WallenDecember 13, 1991
XXDream a Little Dream of MeIn the Dream Time #7: Written by David WiddicombeDecember 20, 1991
XXBetween the SecondsIn the Dream Time #8: A fascintating story about a woman who “slips between the cracks of time” when the second-hand stops on the operating room clock. Written by Patricia LudwickDecember 27, 1991
XXDigging to DemeterIn the Dream Time #9: A woman’s dig on a Greek island unexpectedly unearths memories of a dead daughter and starts the woman on a voyage of recovery paralleling that of Demeter. Written by Patricia Bradbury. Final episode of the series.January 3, 1992
XXFanta FilmAn international, multi-lingual production from RAI -- Italian Public RadioDate Unknown