During the time the nation was economically recovering from the ravages of the depression, the WPA (Works Progress Administration) was providing employment in several diverse occupational fields. The entertainment industry was not overlooked. In 1935 the government agency began underwriting both a Federal Theatre and Music project which was performed on stage and, under the auspices of its radio division, was broadcast over the tacilities of independent radio stations and the major networks. The first of these programs was aired on March 15, 1936, with motion picture actor Fred Niblo introducing the initial performance titled Professional Parade. The government enlisted the aid of the best radio talent and production personnel in producing these shows.

Federal Theatre Project, like its parent organization, began to fade from the American scene as the economic climate improved; it was phased off the air in 1939.