Relive golden days of radio with ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
Longtime readers should remember the “golden days” of radio. Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Red Skelton and so many more drew millions of listeners to their syndicated or network radio shows.
Now, for two days, southern Albertans can recapture some of that magic. Reprising a Lux Radio classic from 1946, veteran Lethbridge drama director Fran Rude is recreating “It’s a Wonderful Life” as a “live radio” production.
Fran has recruited Tony Deys, Morgan Day, Mark Campbell, Stephen Graham, McKade Hogg, Jordana Kohn and Sheila Matson, who will take on the personae of more than 50 characters in the seasonal story.
Viewers will also enjoy the work of the “foley artist,” who supplied all the sound effects for radio drama.
The holiday classic will be presented Dec. 6 and 7 at 7:30 p.m. in Immanuel Lutheran Church near University Drive and Rocky Mountain Boulevard West. Tickets are available online or in person from the Ticket Centre
at the Enmax, with proceeds going to projects designated by the Rotary Club of Lethbridge Sunrise.
A far more recent tradition has been revived. After a seven-year hiatus, the Lethbridge Big Band and New West Theatre are joining forces to present “Christmas Memories.”
Looking back to the excitement of early-days television, they’re presenting a Christmas special combining well-loved music and seasonal cheer.
The show is set for Nov. 30 to Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. in the Multicultural Centre downtown on 6 Avenue South. Tickets are available from the reception desk at the university’s Penny Building on 5 Street South.
It’s a 50-year tradition — and going strong!
The Salvation Army is inviting the community to its annual “Coffee and Carols” celebration, Dec. 3 at its church, 13 Street at 4 Avenue South. Gordon Lowe, who has arranged the program for many years, has invited the McKillop United Church Choir, directed
by Ken Rogers, plus the Four-Ever Praise gospel quartet as featured performers, and there will be a handbell ensemble as well. Guest carol leader Dale Martin Jr. will provide plenty of opportunities for audience participation, starting at 2:30 p.m. Coffee and refreshments will follow the no-charge event.
Christ Trinity Lutheran Church will be the setting for another nocharge Christmas presentation, Dec. 3 and 4.
“Together for Christmas,” a cantata written by contemporary American composer Pepper
Choplin, will be presented at 2 p.m. on the Sunday and then 7 p.m. on Monday at the church, 416 12 St. S.
Guest choir will be the Betesaida Evangelical Church Choir.
There’s no lack of music this time of year, whatever your tastes.
U of L students have plenty to offer, including a collaborative ensemble presentation this evening in Recital Hall. The U of L
Wind Orchestra will perform in University Theatre on Nov. 28, followed by Global Drums on Dec. 1 and the University Singers on Dec. 2. All concerts are set for 7:30 p.m., with tickets at the U of L box office, 403-329-2616.
Local school children are primed for their annual “Kids Choir” performances Nov. 29 and 30, backed up by members of the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra.
More than 250 choirs and 10,000 elementary school students have taken part over the event’s 18 years, with more lined up for this year. It’s also the eighth year that the event has been presented in collaboration with the university’s Conservatory of Music.
Four concerts — each featuring different choirs — are set for 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. both days at Southminster United Church. Tickets, $5 apiece, are being handled by the schools taking part this year.
Downtown, the First Friday presentation on Dec. 1 will be “Fiddletastic,” with Airdrie Robinson and the Friday Fiddlers. The free, bring-your-lunch event is set for 12:15 p.m. at Casa.
And our last-minute reminders: The Lethbridge Registered
Music Teachers present their students’ concert today at 2:30 p.m. in the downtown library’s Theatre Gallery
This evening, the long-running community choir Vox Musica will be joined by the Bridge Brass for a concert featuring carols, a performance of Vivaldi’s “Magnificat,” and three pieces commemorating Canada’s 150th.
It’s set for 7:30 p.m. in Southminster United, with tickets available at Casa or at the door — and accompanied children 12 and under will be admitted free!
And today also sees the final performances of “Vigil,” presented by New West Theatre and Theatre Outre and featuring Erica Hunt and Jay Whitehead. They’re scheduled for 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the Trianon Art Gallery on 1 Avenue South; check for tickets at the door.