Discover the extraordinary power of an ordinary life as Adams State University Theatre presents “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.”

Directed by John Taylor, Ph.D., professor of theatre, this beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life on stage as a live 1940s radio broadcast. From “Auld Lang Syne” to an angel named Clarence, the theatre production will rekindle your favorite memories of the film while being a unique theatre experience.

The play takes place in 1946 and is set in WBFR’s radio studio as a company of actors present a live coast-to-coast broadcast of George Bailey’s story. From sound effects created live on stage to actors playing multiple characters, the charm and magic of original film shines forth as the lives of the radio performers intersect with the characters in this holiday season favorite.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the premiere of Frank Capra’s classic film. Based on the story, “The Greatest Gift,” by Philip Van Doren Stern, the film was not a critical or commercial success in 1946. Over the decades, it has become a Christmas time favorite for its generations of fans. The American Film Institute has named it one of the 100 best American films ever made. The stage play is currently playing on Broadway and will be produced by theatre companies across the nation this winter.

“Since we began the holiday season production tradition in 2004, this the third time I’ve directed a version of the It’s a Wonderful Life,” said Dr. Taylor. “With my retirement planned for 2029, this will be my final time directing our December holiday slot. For one last time, I knew I wanted to stage this play again because I love its timeless story of hope and the power of an individual and a community to make positive change.”

Since 2008, the Theatre program has partnered with La Puente Home and Valley-Wide Health Systems to dedicate one performance of the holiday production as a fundraiser to help those in need in the San Luis Valley. To date, this partnership between the three non-profit organizations has raised over $1,000,000.

Public performances of “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” run at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4, 11, 12; and at 2 p.m. Dec. 13. The La Puente Home “Share the Magic” benefit performance is Dec. 5.

Tickets are currently on sale online and are $13 for general public and free to Associated Students and Faculty with current Adams State identification. Starting November 16, the in-person box office is open from 2:30 p.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The in-person box office will be closed Thanksgiving week. Tickets may be purchased anytime at Theatre Tickets or may be reserved by calling 719-587-8499.