Play brings back ‘golden days’ of radio
‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’ BROADCAST TO BE STAGED AT IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH
These days, play-by-play hockey might seem the most exciting thing on radio. But in its “golden days,” radio network drama and variety shows attracted millions across the U.S. and Canada.
Tonight, a younger generation can feel the power of radio drama while reliving a classic Christmas story. “It’s a Wonderful Life” is being staged — broadcast style — as the Sunrise Rotary Club welcomes audiences once again.
A cast of seven, directed by Lethbridge theatre legend Fran Rude, will share the well-loved story with southern Albertans tonight and Thursday. Last-minute tickets are expected to be available at the door at 7 p.m., at Immanuel Lutheran Church south on University Drive.
“Nothing like this has been done around here in recent memory,” says project manager Don Robb.
Dressed up for a Christmas Eve show — not in costume — each of the performers will play many characters. Script in hand, they’ll address the studio microphone as if it were feeding a broadcast heard across the continent.
Mark Campbell, Morgan Day, Tony Deys, Stephen Graham, McKade Hogg, Jordana Kohn and Sheila Matson will present the radio script, accompanied by a “foley artist” on sound effects. On keyboard, Richard Coombes will accompany the incidental songs.
Robb, a Rotary Club member as well as a jazz musician, says work on the project began last spring. After an extended hiatus, the Sunrise club decided to revive the seasonal performances that were part of its tradition.
When members approached Rude, she suggested the radio version of “It’s a Wonderful Life,” first released as a movie starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore and many others in 1946. Full of twists and turns, it’s the contrasting story of two brothers — one an acclaimed success, the other an apparent failure.
The actions of one of them allows a heavenly angel to gain its wings, the audience learns. That’s signalled by the sound of bells, Robb points out — and the magic of handbells will welcome Lethbridge audiences both nights.
Sunrise Rotary recently purchased a set of handbells for Galbraith Elementary School, he says, and young musicians from the school will offer prelude selections a half-hour ahead of the 7:30 p.m. show.
Robb says those who arrive early will also have an opportunity to appreciate the collection of vintage radios on display in the church narthex. Before the advent of television, radio receivers became ornate pieces of furniture. “It’s pretty amazing,” he says. The church, on Rocky Mountain Boulevard just off University Drive West, offers easy access and parking. Tickets are available from the Ticket Centre at the Enmax, or at the door.