IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY
Adapted by Joe Landry
Based on the story “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern from the screenplay by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Frank Capra and Jo Swerling
Directed by Herbie Barnes
On the Ada Slaight Stage Nov. 20 – Dec. 30, 2023
Recommended for Ages 10+ | Grades 5+
Run time: approx. 85 minutes
Description
“WONDERFUL. ✭✭✭✭”
– Glenn Sumi
“Give yourselves a gift this holiday season and see It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.”
– Our Theatre Voice
“A true treat this holiday season! Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!”
– A View from the Box
The true spirit of the season comes to life in this beloved classic, adapted as a 1940’s radio broadcast before a live audience — you and the kids! Enjoy all the fun of live sound effects, retro jingles — and holiday time together.
Transport yourself to 1945 Bedford Falls, as an ensemble cast of five retells the story as a vintage radio broadcast. Watch as each actor doubles as a foley artist (someone who creates amazing sound effects), producing a playful acoustic backdrop!
It’s a snowy Christmas Eve and George is struggling with an unfulfilled life of big dreams and even bigger disappointments. A lovable guardian angel by the name of Clarence appears and takes George under his wing, revealing what life might have looked like without him in it. In the true spirit of the holidays, George is reminded how precious life is, and the value of family, community and love.
“One of THE BEST holiday shows around…FRESH, INVENTIVE.”
– Chicago Sun Times
“TREMENDOUS FUN…SPLENDID CAST.”
– Our Theatre Voice
“MOVING, JOYFUL, CELEBRATORY – INVENTIVE.”
– The Slotkin Letter
“WHAT MAGIC FOR KIDS to see how a sound is made, from a door slamming, to water splashing, to a fluttering of hanging metal that makes a tinkling sound. WONDERFUL.”
– The Slotkin Letter
“A well-loved tale told with style, charm and a heart so big it could burst the ribcage of the harshest Grinch.”
– The Chicago Tribune
“A fresh theatrical context that creates just the right kind of retro warmth. If you cry every time you see the movie, you’ll be blubbering away right on cue…Guaranteed.”
– The Chicago Tribune
Pre-Show Family Activity
FUN WITH FOLEY!
Interactive Sound Effects Exhibit – IT’S FREE!
Visit our Studio before the performance and have fun learning how to create your own sound effects from simple objects. You will have 15 minutes to try four sound effects, and to become a Foley Artist in Training! The exhibit is FREE and is offered for public performances only. More information HERE.
Please Note: Admission to the exhibit requires a ticket to the day’s performance. When booking your ticket, look for the Foley Exhibit add-on in the drop down menu. If you have any questions, please contact the Box Office at yptboxoffice@youngpeoplestheatre.org.
Content Advisory
In this story the character of George Bailey begins to doubt his worth and becomes overwhelmed due to a financial crisis. He drinks alcohol and goes to a bridge to consider suicide. There George meets Clarence, an angel who takes him on a journey that shows him the positive impact he has had on his family and community. George remembers his worth and the immense love around him. There are also references to a fist fight and the use of alcohol.
Teacher Resources
- For information on Play Companion Workshops, click here.
- Study Guide
- Content Advisory
- Tools of the Trade: Post-performance, members of YPT’s Production Department give students insight into how sound, lighting, costumes, sets and props are created. Dates: Dec. 13, 15, 21.
Program & Study Guide
STUDY GUIDE
Relaxed Performance
Relaxed Performances
Friday, Dec. 1 at 10:30AM
Saturday, Dec. 2 at 2:00PM
Relaxed Performances include extra features to make the theatre-going experience more sensory-friendly. These include a relaxed attitude to our general policies, slightly adjusted sound and lighting levels, a calm area to watch the show on a lobby monitor if a break is needed, and additional resources before and during the show.
Drama Workshop
Curriculum Connections
The Arts – Drama, Music
English/Language
Social Sciences and Humanities – Exploring Family Studies
Health and Physical Education (Social-Emotional Learning Skills, Healthy Living)
7 Ancestral Teachings
Humility
Love
Themes
Caring for each other
Long-term effects of positive actions
The power of community
Performance Calendar
Calendar
- December
- Public
- School and Groups