It’s A Wonderful Life” Live at the Biograph! 2011

Based on the Frank Capra film and

based on the short story

“The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern

Directed by Marty Higginbotham

Produced by American Blues Theater

At the Richard Christiansen Theater at Victory Gardens Biograph

American Blues Theater’s radio play still heartfelt and honest

With the addition of Michael Mahler,  his wife Dara Cameron, and Zachary Kenney, this year’s edition of the radio play version of Frank Capra’s beloved holiday show still is filled with warmth, charm and wholesome American spirit that depicts how the little guy from small town America can effectively affect (for the good) many lives. Yes, we learn to love George Bailey (nicely played by Kevin R. Kelly) and we empathize with his predicament as his desperation almost drives him to self destruction.

Filled with a sharp and versatile cast including the veteran John Mohrlein as the villain Mr. Potter , American Blues Theater continues to please with their annual radio play telling of Capra’s holiday classic. This truthful format – a live radio show -totally engages audiences into the story. The performances are honest and thorough. You’ll feel at home at the Biograph’s upstairs theater and you’ll experience being an interactive audience for a radio show. so take your family back to the 1940’s to help Clarence, the angel, get his wings.  The tradition is living well on Lincoln Avenue.

Highly Recommended

Tom Williams

Talk Theatre in Chicago podcast

Date Reviewed: November 27, 2011

For more information, see the It’s A Wonderful Life page on theatreinchicago.com

At the Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL, www.americanbluestheater.com, tickets $25 – $50, Thursdays & Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 5 & 8 pm, Sundays at 2:30 pm, running time is 90 minutes without intermission, through December 31, 2011