Dive into the depths of the urban underground with Tunnel Runners, a thrilling and haunting audio drama series from PlayME, as part of CBC Podcasts. This seven-part episodic journey follows Cam, a 16-year-old gifted student whose struggles with anxiety and depression lead him into the hidden world of the subway tunnels beneath Toronto.

The first episode, "The Red Door," launches on October 30, 2024. Seven new episodes are released weekly.

After a devastating panic attack at school, triggered by his father's abandonment and his mother's absence, Cam escapes into the dark, labyrinthine subway system. There, he discovers an underground community known as the Tunnel Runners, a subculture that thrives away from the chaos of the city above.

“Creating the original audio thriller Tunnel Runners has been an exhilarating experience. It’s allowed us to blend our theatre background with the intimacy and cinematic power of audio drama, crafting a fantastical world we hope will come alive for our listeners. As the theatre, film, and TV industries face significant challenges, we believe audio fiction offers a compelling and accessible outlet for both creators and audiences.” - Laura Mullin and Chris Tolley, Creators of Tunnel Runners

Episode Highlights:

 • Episode 1: The Red Door

Cam's life unravels after his father leaves. With his mother away, he faces a panic attack in front of his crush, Zuri, and seeks refuge in the subway, where he meets Brooklyn and the Tunnel Runners.

 • Episode 2: Subterranean Glow-Up

Cam is captured by the Tunnel Runners but saved by his childhood friend, Blaze. Faced with the harsh realities of addiction, he decides to remain underground.

 • Episode 3: Blood Oath

As Cam proves his commitment to the Runners, he undergoes a dangerous initiation that reveals their world's harsh rules.

 • Episode 4: Massacre of the Innocents

Cam's struggles intensify as he grapples with betrayal and the pressures of a scavenging mission that leads to unforeseen consequences.

 • Episode 5: Ghosting

Cam's past collides with his present when Zuri is caught in the underground, forcing him to confront his loyalties and fears.

 • Episode 6: Spa Day

As tensions rise, tragedy strikes, pushing Cam to reflect on his relationships and the choices that define him.

 • Episode 7: Son of a Bitch

In a climactic confrontation with his estranged father, Cam must choose between saving himself and the ties that bind him to his past.

About PlayME:

Launched in 2016 to cater to a growing on-demand audience, PlayME celebrates the best of Canadian theatre internationally. As part of CBC Podcasts, PlayME is one of the largest platforms for Canadian theatre and is taking the leap into creating original content in the audio world. By taking a bold and innovative approach to disseminating plays, PlayME transforms the way we experience theatre. The podcast features distinguished actors and focuses on current, relevant scripts geared toward a worldwide audience. PlayME has been recognized internationally as a 2016 Webby Award honoree and a 2020 New York Festivals Radio Gold Medallist.

“Thanks to their show 'PlayME,' you can listen to the best of Canadian theatre anytime from the comfort of your home or while you’re walking the dog or commuting. Also, you can’t beat the price, which is free if you have a smartphone or internet connection.” - Glenn Sumi, Toronto Star 2024

Meet the Creative Team:

Tunnel Runners is created by Laura Mullin and Chris Tolley, written by Laura Mullin, with sound design by Chris Tolley and script editing by Greg Nelson. The series features a diverse cast including Jordan Kuper, Tony Nappo (Strays, Schitts Creek), Gabriella Sundar Singh (Kim’s Convenience, Designated Survivor), Peter Fernandes (Pretty Hard Cases), Charlotte Dennis (Murdoch Mysteries), Liz Der (Chucky, La Rhonde) Dan Mousseau (Working Moms, Prodigal), Jeff Yung (Coroner), Michelle Monteith (Hudson & Rex, Butcher), Zorana Sadiq (Strays, MixTape), Marcia Johnson (Digstown, Serving Elizabeth), Dharini Woollcombe (Orphan Black), Ruth Goodwin (Workin’ Moms), Annelise Hawrylak (Nowhere Land), Marin Stephens (Murdoch Mysteries) and Olive Tolley.

Listen Now:

As of October 30, 2024, episodes are available on all major platforms weekly. Experience the raw emotion and intensity of Tunnel Runners and discover what lies beneath the surface.

 • Episode One: The Red Door - October 30, 2024

 • Episode Two: Subterranean Glow-Up - November 6, 2024

 • Episode Three: Blood Oath - November 13, 2024

 • Episode Four: Massacre of the Innocents - November 20, 2024

 • Episode Five: Ghosting - November 27, 2024

 • Episode Six: Spa Day - December 4, 2024

 • Episode Seven: Son of a Bitch - December 11, 2024.