IPRT Improv Playhouse Radio Theatre presents An Evening of Radio Drama from Yesteryear...for Today!
The Frank Capra Holiday Film Classic... "It's A Wonderful Life!"
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. Come and see how live radio was performed way back when! The Improv Playhouse Radio Players, of the Libertyville-based theater company, is performing the live staged radio drama "It's A Wonderful Life" for a two-weekend run in Libertyville. "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 7th year for this holiday tradition. The cast features successful actors including SAG-AFTRA actors Stuart (George Bailey-Libertyville), Mia Hirschel (Mary-Lake Zurich) and Hainesville resident George Elliott (Superintendent Angel). Veteran character actor Egon Schein from Libertyville (Clarence/Potter), Kaytie Rivkin (Mt. Prospect), Erik Martin (Barrington), Jerry Hirschel (Lake Zurich), Aaron Sjoholm (Wildwood), Adam Mizner and Lara Dohner (Chicago) round out the adult cast. Additional youth ensemble members to be announced. Adult actors play the some of the child roles. “We have cast young children to play the female child roles including the role of ZuZu." "It's a Wonderful Life" is the quintessential holiday tale of George Bailey familiar to most and regarded as perhaps the best Christmas movie ever made. To take this story and set it in a 1940s radio studio complete with commercials and a sound effects artist is a great concept, and it is clear why this show has become a staple of the holiday season in Libertyville. "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…plus…Nick’s Bar will be only serving milk, hot chocolate and cookies!" says Stuart. 4 performances only, Fridays, December 8 & 15th and Saturdays, December 9 & 16 at 7:30pm. The production is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes long. The I.P. Theater is at 735 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Pre-sale tickets are $15.00 for adults, and $10.00 seniors/military, and $5.00 students. Tickets at the door are $20.00 and $15 & $5.00. . Recommended age: 7 & up. To order tickets, call (847) 968.4529 or purchase online at www.improvplayhouse.com.
