Wheaton Drama's 'It's A Wonderful Life' director invites audiences to radio show

The story of an ordinary man who nearly gives up his greatest gift, "It's A Wonderful Life" was the first film both Frank Capra and Jimmy Stewart made after World War II. It played in New York in December of 1946, but, as it was not considered a Christmas film at the time, it was not given a wide release until January of the following year. Over time, of course, it has become as synonymous with Christmas as mistletoe and Dickens, and Wheaton Drama is sure audiences won't want to miss the Playhouse 111 staging of this holiday classic.

Wheaton Drama's production of "It's A Wonderful Life" - Radio Show by Tony Palermo boasts some exciting differences from the other radio shows playing in the area. Played as a broadcast straight from 1947, this version delights in taking the audience back in time with old-school radio ads, Christmas tunes, interludes, and radio jingles sung by an Andrews Sisters-style trio, plus it is populated with some of the most talented players of the Western Suburbs. Charming dance interludes will be performed by three groups under the direction of Tracy Adams.

These benefit performances also feature an incredible collection of items up for raffle - from starter wine collections, restaurant gift certificates, and a "Sushi with Belushi" to an "It's A Wonderful Life" throw blanket donated by the original Zuzu from the film, Karolyn Grimes. Karolyn Grimes is also the honorary sponsor of this run. A letter written by Ms. Grimes will be read at the end of each performance.

$10 show tickets are selling fast. A Thursday night performance was added to try and meet demand. Audiences won't want to miss this indelible, one-of-a-kind production. Visit http://www.wheatondrama.org for tickets, or call 630-360-1820. $5 and $10 raffle tickets will be available for purchase at each show.

"It's A Wonderful Life" - Radio Show is performed at Wheaton Drama's Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale Street, Wheaton, IL 60187. Shows are at 8pm December 13 and 14; 3pm and 8pm December 15; 3pm December 16.

Visit http://www.wheatondrama.org for full show details and information regarding Wheaton Drama's upcoming productions of "Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure", "Full Circle", and "Into the Woods".