Staples Players Radio Theatre Presents: 'It's a Wonderful Life'

Press release from Staples Players:

Nov. 19, 2020

Looking for an escape from 2020 and a reminder of what really matters in life? Take a journey back in time with the heartwarming classic It’s a Wonderful Life, the third in Staples Players’ radio play series, airing this Sunday at 6 pm EST via livestream at www.wwptfm.org. George Bailey isn’t battling presidential election or pandemic fatigue but he has his issues. As his eyes are opened to the meaning in his life, we all are sure to reflect on the blessings in our own lives—however tumultuous this year feels.

This fall, Players co-directors David Roth (SHS ’84) and Kerry Long (SHS ’97) have led their determined troupe of talented thespians in an exploration of acting across the airwaves, beginning with The Wizard of Oz in October and Pride and Prejudice earlier this month. Based on reports of singing in living rooms and ubiquitous Munchkin imitations, it’s clear audiences have been thrilled to switch off the news and on Staples Radio WWPT. Due to demand—both among happy listeners and eager actors—a fourth show, A Christmas Carol, will carry our community into the holiday season on December 13th.

“We've never had a season like this before,” says Long. “We’ve never done a season of radio shows, never done more than one show in a season, and never NOT had a live performance to offer. That said, Players has pivoted and placed our focus on dance classes on the tennis courts, socially distanced recording in the radio studio, and producing four shows at once to give more students opportunities to perform.” Players also engaged community businesses by producing radio ads and collaborating on show-themed meal offers from local restaurants.

Dunville’s, right around the corner from Saugatuck’s very It’s a Wonderful Life-esque William Cribari Bridge, will cook up George’s Yankee Pot Roast, Zuzu’s Scallops, and Mary Hatch’s Stuffed Sole to complement the holiday classic.

Samantha Webster (SHS ’21), who plays Josephine in It’s a Wonderful Life, expects audiences will love the play for its timely message. “I think it'll really touch listeners of all ages and hopefully help them see how valued they are. Overall, I think audiences will love the style of the shows. Radio plays have a fun way of telling stories, with hosts and narrators putting us in the world of a story with just words. They're very comforting and nostalgic, and we could all use a little bit of comfort right now.”

“It’s A Wonderful Life is a Players’ classic,” says Camille Foisie (SHS ’21) who plays Clarice. “For many years the Theatre 3 class at Staples High School would put on this radio show around Christmas, which brings back a lot of familiarity and normality to Players’ traditions! I am excited to be a part of this production and this tradition.”

This press release was produced by Staples Players. The views expressed here are the author's own.