ESU Theatre presents "It's a Wonderful Life," a holiday radio show
ESU Theatre will present a live radio production of “It’s a Wonderful Life” as a holiday treat for the Emporia community. The production, originally presented by the Topeka Performing Arts Center, is adapted from Frank Capra’s beloved film. The film classic was adapted for the stage by Philip Grecian. “It’s A Wonderful Life” will be presented in the Karl C. Bruder Theatre at Emporia State University, December 2-5, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
“It’s A Wonderful Life is a classic holiday story. This production takes us back to the golden age of radio when families gathered together for inspirational broadcasts and wholesome entertainment,” said Jim Bartruff, director of theatre at ESU. The ESU actors employ their vocal talents and live sound effects on stage to re-imagine this much loved tale of George Bailey’s journey of self-worth. Perfect for the whole family, this play helps to remind us what it means to cherish our community, treat others with compassion and recognize cheer in times of hardship.
This story is about George Bailey, the beloved hero of Bedford Falls, and is based upon a short story entitled “The Greatest Gift.” RKO purchased the story in 1944 as a vehicle for Cary Grant. After several failed attempts to get the film made, Frank Capra came on the scene. Screenwriters Albert Goodrich and Frances Hackett finished the script and it all came together when James Stewart, fresh from the Air Force, signed on the play George Bailey. Donna Reed, a contract player for MGM, played his beloved Mary. When it premiered in the winter of 1946-47, the film was not a success. Still, it was nominated for five Academy Awards. Since then, countless late night television screenings have made “It’s a Wonderful Life” a cherished holiday tradition.
The ESU production is under the co-direction of Herb Wyrick and Jim Bartruff. Herb is a retired public school teacher and an adjunct professor in the Department of Communication and Theatre. Last spring, he was seen in the ESU production of “She Stoops to Conquer.” Senior Naoko Ishizuka, Chiba, Japan, designed the setting and senior Chris Lohkamp (Wichita) is designing the lighting. The costume designer is Susan Mai. Junior Emily Warren, Wichita, is designing the hair and make-up. Al Daugherty, junior, Leavenworth, is the production Stage Manager. Sophomore Lindsay Ward, Gardner, is the Assistant Stage Manager. Sophomore Ross Rundell, Salina, is designing the sound effects for the production. Special guest performers for the production are members of Twin Rivers Sweet Adelines.
The cast features senior Gabe Moyer, Olathe, as George Bailey; Bob Hart, senior, Overland Park, as Clarence and Mr. Potter; Sara Holle, junior, Marysville, is Mary; Lindsay Roland, senior, Grand Island, Neb., is Mrs. Bailey and Mrs. Hatch. Josh Taylor, sophomore, Salina, will play Harry Bailey, Nick, and Bert the Cop; Thomas Govert, junior, Arkansas City, plays Ernie, Mr. Martini, Marty Hatch, and Carter; Scott Swezey, senior, Overland Park, is Mr. Gower, Mr. Bailey, and Uncle Billy. Other cast members are Elise Blann, sophomore, Newton; Desiree Dye, senior, Chanute; Laura Dossett, sophomore, Jenks, Okla.; Dylan Lewis (junior, Wichita); Casey McCabe (sophomore, Gardner); Paul Clements (senior, Abilene) and Isaac Mullins, freshman, Gardner.
Perhaps the most important players are the “foley artists” responsible for the play’s many sound effects. They are Cara Lohkamp freshman, Wichita, and Jennifer Newell, junior, Emporia.
Tickets for the production are available from the ESU Box Office in the Memorial Union or by calling 620-341-6378 or toll-free at 877-341-6378.