This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. This story is timeless!
We recreate a live radio studio from 1948. Many of the Actors would be returning to work from their time in the USO (United Service Organization) and some would have worked with Bob Hope who would entertain the troops for 6 decades!
There was no TV in those days so many people relied on the Wireless (or Radio) for news and entertainment. These live radio plays were the hallmark for radio up until the mid-1960's. One of the most popular shows was the Fred Allen Show. He would later be well known for being the voice of Fred Flintstone.
Actors would often play multiple roles in a single performance. Foley artists would be used to provide the sound effects and many times a live orchestra or piano player would provide the music. We do our very best to use live sound effects and our on-stage actors take on this responsibility. Using a scrub brush on a piece of wood would sound like a train approaching, etc.
A live audience would be part of this experience! The open stage concept you see is exactly copied from a late 1940's radio theatre complete with applause sign and actors showing up to work.
I am happy to present this captivating story which the kids really enjoyed! Merry Christmas Bedford Falls!
Larry VanMersbergen,
Director and sponsor of Knights Theatre
