It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play

Actor David McBean with foley sound effects artist Scott Paulson. (Photo by Randy Rovang)

See the holiday classic It’s A Wonderful Life like you have never seen – or heard – it before. Cygnet Theatre Company presents the fourth annual production of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play based on the Frank Capra film and adapted for the stage by Joe Landry.

It’s December 24, 1946 in Studio A at WCYG Radio and a cast of actors are preparing to present It’s a Wonderful Life in a “live” 1940’s radio broadcast filled with music and the beloved characters from the film. With the help of a pianist and a sound effects artist, the ensemble recreates the story of George Bailey, a young man whose dreams of traveling the world are thwarted by his sense of responsibility to the family business. Down on his luck, George contemplates throwing his life away when he is visited by Clarence, a guardian angel, who shows George what the world would be like had he never been born.

Tom Andrew as George Bailey. (Photo by Randy Rovang)

This holiday Cygnet tradition, which originated at Cygnet’s Rolando Stage, makes its way to Cygnet’s Old Town Stage for the first time this year! It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play has been extended through Dec. 31 at Cygnet Theatre’s Old Town Stage located at 4040 Twiggs Street.

This year’s cast is directed by Artistic Director Sean Murray and features many returning favorites from last year’s production including Tom Andrew as George Bailey, who received a 2008 San Diego Critic’s Circle Award for this signature performance and the brilliant Scott Paulson who reigns over Bedford Falls once again with his live, old-fashioned Foley sound effects ‘orchestra’. Also returning are Jonathan Dunn-Rankin as Mr. Potter, Veronica Murphy as Ma Bailey, David McBean as Harry Bailey and Tim West as Clarence the Angel. Melissa Fernandes returns as Violet Bick and Amanda Sitton joins the cast this year as Mary Hatch. Piano accompaniment and musical direction will be provided by Amy Dalton.

In its fourth year, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play is quickly becoming a San Diego tradition. Perfect for all ages, patrons can now receive one free child’s ticket with every adult ticket purchased!

It’s A Wonderful Life
Presented by Cygnet Theatre
Now through Dec. 27 – extended to Dec. 31
Tickets: $17-$46

Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twigg Street (In Old Town Historic Park)
Box Office: (619) 337-1525
Online: CygnetTheatre.com