Improv Playhouse actors stage radio version of 'It's A Wonderful Life'

Posted December 12, 2019 5:00 am

Submitted by Improv Playhouse

David Brian Stuart plays the lead role of George Bailey in Improv Playhouse Radio Theatre's staged radio drama production of "It's A Wonderful Life." Performances are scheduled for Dec. 13, 14, 15, 20 and 21. Courtesy of Improv Playhouse

Come and see how live radio was performed way back when.

The Libertyville-based theater company Improv Playhouse is performing the professional, live staged radio drama "It's A Wonderful Life" weekends through Dec. 21 in Libertyville.

George Bailey spends his entire life giving up his big dreams for the good of his town. His guardian angel, Clarence, falls to Earth, literally, and shows him how his town, family and friends would turn out if he had never been born.

"This is a story of redemption, where the lead character finds he's at the end of all hope, only to be presented with a new vision on how his life has affected so many," said David Brian Stuart, Improv Playhouse executive founding producer, who is directing and starring in the role of George Bailey.

This is the eighth year for this holiday tradition.

George Elliot is the Superintendent Angel in the staged radio drama production of "It's A Wonderful Life," presented by Improv Playhouse Radio Theatre in Libertyville. Courtesy of Improv Playhouse

The cast features successful professional actors, including SAG-AFTRA actors Stuart of Libertyville (George Bailey), Mia Hirschel of Lake Zurich (Mary) and George Elliott of Hainesville (Superintendent Angel) and Lakemoor resident Michael Scott Blackman (Mr. Potter/Clarence).

"Michael does an exceptional job as both Mr. Potter and Clarence," Stuart said. "He is, after all, a member of The Screen Actors Guild."

Veteran character actor Egon Schein from Libertyville, who normally plays Mr. Potter, had to withdraw from this year's production.

Sue Kries of Vernon Hills, Steve Plumhoff of Gurnee, Kelly Harramis of Lake Forest, Karen Schaffroth of Round Lake Beach and Jerry Hirschel of Lake Zurich round out the adult cast, with youngsters Amalia Rappa and Lauren Barry of Libertyville splitting the role of Zuzu on alternate dates. Adult actors play some of the child roles.

The Improv Playhouse Radio Theatre production of "It's a Wonderful Life" takes Frank Capra's holiday film classic and sets it in a 1940s radio studio, complete with commercials and a sound effects artist.

Mia Hirschel performs as Mary in the Improv Playhouse Radio Theatre production of "It's A Wonderful Life." Courtesy of Improv Playhouse

"This is a production that will delight all members of every family, from young to old. It emphasizes the joy of the holidays, the spirit of kindness, love and forgiveness, so needed in our culture, in a little over an hour," Stuart said. "Plus, Nick's Bar will be serving milk, hot chocolate and cookies."

There are five upcoming performances: 8 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 13 and 20; and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 14 and 21; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15. The production is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes long.

The Improv Playhouse Theater is at 735 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door for adults; $15/$20 for seniors and military; and $7/$10 for students. Cash only at the door. The show is recommended for ages 7 and older.

To order tickets, call (847) 968-4529 or visit www.improvplayhouse.com.

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