The 70th anniversary of Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life is giving fresh life to this classic holiday film. Here in Fort Wayne, First Presbyterian Theater added a new twist by presenting the story in the form of a 1940's live radio broadcast.
Now, to add yet another dimension to this multifaceted production, the performance will be airing on this station, on Christmas Eve.
To director, Thom Hofrichter, adapting the screen play into a radio play provided a firsthand look at the era, and a chance to deliver the powerful message using only sound.
"I was curious to see what would happen if you just tell the story with the human voice. Most of what happens in the theater comes through your ears. I thought it would be really interesting to just see what happens if it all comes through your ears."
The radio realism is created through live sound effects, commercial jingles, Christmas carols, and a core group of actors playing multiple characters.
It gets even more real with Duke Roth's expert work as the Foley man, that's the "sound effects guy," and WBOI reporter Lisa Ryan, playing the role of Violet Bick.
You can hear for yourself, mixing the mediums is a wonderful say to share the joy, and amplify the timeless message of this magical tale.
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You can catch this radio play of It's a Wonderful Life this Saturday night, Christmas Eve, from 9:00 to 11:00 on 89.1 WBOI.