About This Production
Inspired by Frank Capra’s cinematic classic, this beloved holiday treat brings the spirit of the season to life right before your eyes. Performed as a 1940s live radio broadcast in front of a studio audience, five actors play the dozens of characters in Bedford Falls as well as produce all the sound effects. A nostalgic blend of holiday cheer and theatrical magic, you will fall in love all over again with George Bailey and the angel named Clarence who saves his life on Christmas Eve.
Join us as roaming telegraph boys and popcorn girls in period costumes transform the Lowndes Shakespeare Center into a vintage, New York City radio studio on Christmas Eve. The pre-show action begins thirty minutes prior to show time.
Critic and Audience Reviews
-Matthew J. Palm, Orlando Sentinel"Warm(s) the heart of theatergoers from age 8 to 28 to 58 to 88… I was won over by the charm and enthusiasm of the acting company.”
-Thomas Thorspecken, Analog Artist Digital World"If you need a heart-warming classic to get you in the mood for the holidays, then 'It's a Wonderful Life' is your ticket."
-Seth Kubersky, Orlando Weekly"Orlando Shakespeare Theater has shaken and stirred this overly familiar story into a festive cocktail of old-timey radio comedy, without losing an ounce of its emotional punch."
Creative Team
Director: Suzanne O'Donnell
Scenic Designer: Richard Crowell
Lighting Designer: Kevin Griffin
Costume Designer: Mel Barger
Sound Designer: Britt Sandusky
Children under 5 will not be admitted to the theater.