There is something undeniably captivating about witnessing the magic of old-time radio brought to life on stage. In an era long before television dominated living rooms, talented performers relied solely on their voices, sound effects, and the audience's imagination to create entire worlds. What was once a staple of American entertainment has largely become a lost art, making productions like It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play feel especially rare and rewarding. I jumped at the chance to see this beloved holiday classic interpreted through such a unique lens, and part of the joy came from watching a small ensemble of actors seamlessly inhabit multiple characters throughout the evening. Equally fascinating was the foley artistry on display, as everyday objects were transformed into footsteps, slamming doors, storm winds, and countless other sounds before the audience's eyes. The result was not only a tribute to a bygone era of broadcasting but also a celebration of the creativity and craftsmanship that made radio storytelling so memorable.
From the moment audiences enter Citadel Theatre, they are welcomed into the world of WBFR's holiday broadcast complete with illuminated "On Air" signs and flashing applause cues. Rather than waiting for the action to begin, patrons are greeted by performers already bustling about the stage, making final preparations as though a live radio transmission is only moments away. The setting evokes the warmth and nostalgia of a 1940s broadcast studio, complete with four vintage-style microphone stands, a prominently placed sound effects station, and festive holiday touches that create an inviting, cozy atmosphere. Scenic Designer Bob Knuth's richly detailed studio, complemented by Rachel M. Spyniewski's period-perfect costumes and Reiley Duffy's carefully curated properties, fully immerses audiences in the era. Wood-paneled walls, vintage furnishings, and authentic broadcast touches further enhance the illusion of stepping back in time. Before a single line is spoken, viewers feel less like theatergoers and more like guests witnessing a special Christmas Eve radio event.
Joe Landry's inventive stage adaptation of Frank Capra's beloved 1946 film It's a Wonderful Life, famously starring James Stewart and Donna Reed, transports audiences to a 1946 radio studio where a troupe of performers brings George Bailey's story to life. A devoted husband, father, and lifelong resident of Bedford Falls, George has spent years placing the needs of others ahead of his own dreams. Facing a personal crisis on Christmas Eve, he finds himself questioning the value of his life until a visitor from above offers an extraordinary glimpse into what the world might have looked like had he never existed.
Brian Parry in Citadel's It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. Photos by Ralph Durham Photography.
What unfolds is a heartfelt reminder of the profound impact one person can have on family, friends, and an entire community. By framing the story as a live radio broadcast, the production adds an extra layer of charm, inviting audiences to appreciate both the timeless emotional power of George Bailey's journey and the remarkable theatrical ingenuity required to create it in real time.
Director Jack Hickey assembles a remarkably talented ensemble that fully embraces the demands of the live radio play format. What could easily become a gimmick instead serves as one of the production's greatest strengths, as actors effortlessly shift between multiple characters, often changing personalities, accents, ages, and emotional registers in a matter of seconds. The transitions are so fluid that audiences never struggle to distinguish one character from another, despite the intentionally minimalist presentation. Particularly impressive are the moments when performers engage in conversations with themselves, adopting entirely different vocal identities with remarkable clarity and precision. The cast's ability to create such a vivid world using little more than voice, timing, and imagination speaks volumes about both their talent and the enduring power of storytelling.
Leading the company is Brian Parry, known to Chicago audiences for acclaimed portrayals of Willy Loman, King Lear, and Richard Nixon. As radio actor Freddie Filmore, Parry brings an appropriately imposing presence to Mr. Potter while also lending distinctive voices to characters such as Mr. Drucker and Uncle Billy. Jake Harrison Murphy and Rachel J. Jones anchor the evening as radio performers Jake Laurents and Sally Applewhite, seamlessly portraying George and Mary Bailey along with several additional roles. Meanwhile, John Dooley, as Harry “Jazzbo” Haywood, and Cait Kelly, as Lana Sherwood, prove indispensable as they cycle through a seemingly endless roster of supporting characters. Each performer develops distinct vocal patterns and mannerisms that make every role feel fully realized, regardless of stage time.
Caleb Ryan Jones as both the stage manager and foley operator.
Adding another layer of authenticity, Caleb Ryan Jones serves as both radio stage manager and foley artist, generating a steady stream of sound effects that become a source of fascination in their own right. Equally delightful are the vintage-style commercials woven throughout the program. Watching the performers transition from playing George Bailey and the citizens of Bedford Falls to enthusiastically delivering old-fashioned radio advertisements adds even more appeal to the evening while reinforcing the illusion that audiences are witnessing a genuine live broadcast from the 1940s. Under Hickey's assured direction, the entire company works in seamless harmony, transforming a familiar holiday favorite into a lively celebration of theatrical ingenuity and old-fashioned storytelling.
In the end, Citadel Theatre's production is far more than a clever exercise in nostalgia. It is a lovingly crafted reminder of why It's a Wonderful Life has endured for generations. Through sharp performances, inventive sound design, and a genuine affection for both the source material and the golden age of radio, the company transforms a familiar holiday story into an engaging theatrical event. Whether audiences come for the beloved Christmas tale or the rare opportunity to witness the artistry of live radio drama, they are likely to leave with renewed appreciation for both and perhaps a fresh reminder of the lasting impact one life can have on countless others.
Whatever form it takes, It's a Wonderful Life has become an annual Christmas tradition for countless families. Whether revisiting Frank Capra's beloved film starring James Stewart and Donna Reed, attending a theatrical adaptation, or experiencing the story through the lens of a live 1946 radio broadcast, its message remains as timeless as ever and its story every bit as engaging. As someone who can happily revisit all three and still come away wanting more, I suspect fans of the Capra classic who have yet to experience the radio-play version will find this production especially fulfilling.
Recommended.
It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play and is being performed through December 13th at Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest with a running time of 90 minutes and no intermission. For tickets and/or more show information, click here.
