It’s a Wonderful Life: The Radio Play at ATC

Adapted from the Frank Capra film

Directed by Jason W. Grace

At American Theater Company, Chicago

Still heartwarming after so many years.

Featuring a heartfelt performance as George Bailey by Cliff Chamberlain with the versatile veteran actor Mike Nussbaum as Clarence the angel and Mr. Potter, American Theatre Company’s annual production of the radio play version of Frank Capra’s It’s A Wonderful Life is in terrific hands. Yes, if you’ve never experienced a live radio play-then get to ATC to see how it unfolds. The skill set of the players with Foley Artist Rick Kubes deftly creating the sound effects makes the production interesting. Filled with humor, old time radio commercials and jungles, The ATC  production is a fine holiday treat. It is heartwarming and family friendly.

This production captures all the drama and heart of the original 1948 film as we see how a good man can, under stress, fail to appreciate how good his life has been. We cheer for George Bailey, the everyman good guy as he struggles. We also wish that Clarence will get his wings once he saves George. The lessons of this fable can’t be stated enough. The ATC production is a treat.

Recommended

Tom Williams

Talk Theatre in Chicago podcast

Date Reviewed: November 27, 2012

For more info checkout the It’s a Wonderful Life page at theatreinchicago.com

At ATC, 1909 W. Byron, Chicago, IL, call 773-409-4125, www.atcweb.org, tickets $35 – $40, Thursdays & Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2 & 8 pm, Sundays at 2 pm, running time is 85 minutes without intermission, through December 30, 2012