Unique Cleveland Drama Company Performing 'It's A Wonderful Life'

CLEVELAND — Theatre in the Circle will perform a unique version of "It's a Wonderful Life" at Judson Manor in Cleveland in December. The production opens December 12 and will continue performances until December 15.

This version of "It's a Wonderful Life" is actually a musical, a fact that makes the production unique locally.

“This musical adaptation has never been performed in Ohio or the Great Lakes region. Our composer, lyricist and director, Bill Corcoran, has taken the words from this Frank Capra film classic and given them life in songs like Mary Bailey’s ballad Lasso the Moon, George Bailey’s can-do-anthem Leave It To George, and guardian angel Clarence’s vaudeville lament about his lack of wings Celestial Blues," said Managing Director Mark Corcoran. "It’s very special that the musical score is actually based on the script and illuminates it.”

The production opens December 12 at 7:30 p.m. Additional performances will be held December 13 at 7:30 p.m., December 14 at 2 p.m. and 730 p.m. and December 15 at 2 p.m. All performances will be held at Judson Manor, 1890 E. 107th Street, Cleveland.

Theatre in the Circle is the only resident-driven production company run out of a retirement community in America. Since 2016, the company has performed more than a dozen productions and each show offers complimentary parking, barrier-free access and hearing loop technology.

“We’re trying to reassure our audiences that no matter the adversity or hardship, caring and kindness are not old-fashioned. Though the world seems upside down, respect and caring for each other is still part of who we are," Corcoran said.