It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play is a Sweet Holiday Treat

A review by Linda Relyea 

ALAMOSA (December 5) – Is there a more miserly and wicked man than the character, Mr. Potter in It’s a Wonderful Life, even Ebenezer Scrooge redeems himself at the end. And could there be a more selfless and compassionate man than George Bailey, who surrenders his own youthful enthusiasm and dreams to embrace Mary Hatch and the small town life in Bedford Falls.

No wonder It’s a Wonderful Life plays on television over and over again throughout the month of December, it warms the heart and cheers the spirit. The Adams State University Theatre’s production It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, directed by Dr. John H. Taylor, accomplishes the same feeling and adds a little touch of special magic as well.

Sitting in the audience, a live studio audience with applause signs lighting up and commercial breaks, for kinda humorous products, was fun. I believe the experience would be like watching a live broadcast of the Prairie Home Companion, but better. The actors play radio show performers, who act out characters in It’s a Wonderful Life. It made me feel nostalgic but engaged too.

The stage, a live radio show, means the actors, and sound engineers, remain in sight for the entire length of the play. I appreciated the energy and spirit they all kept while on stage. It is unlike any other play I have seen, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

For over ten years now, the Adams State University has delighted the community with holiday shows for the whole family. It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play will put you in the mood for tree trimming, eggnog, and celebrating life.

Treat yourself, your family and dear friends to It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, you will experience the joy that comes from sharing a special moment together and be reminded of the idea that we all make a mark in our world.

Public performances of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play run at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, 12, and 13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 6, 13, and 14. Call 719-587-8499 for reservations.

Tickets are $10 for general public, $8 for seniors and students, $6 for children 12 and under, and free to Associated Students and Faculty with current ASC i.d. The box office number is 587-8499.