‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ brings old-time classic to life

BROOKLYN — The Brooklyn Community Theater Christmas production of “It’s a Wonderful Life — A Live Radio Play” was well received during its three-day run, Dec. 5 — 7.

The production told the classic story of George Bailey, Mr. Porter, Clarence the angel in training and many others in the format of a 1940s radio show with the actors reading for more than 40 different characters.

Mike Phillips, of Montezuma, a longtime fan of the “It’s a Wonderful Life” movie, said he enjoyed the production, especially Mike McKenna who played Mr. Potter and several other characters.

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“His voice was really good,” said Phillips. “I’m real familiar with the movie. The text they were reading was right out of the movie. All the actors and actresses did a great job.”

Phillips also noted Harold Wheeler, a longtime friend, who was the play production announcer and Joseph and Peter Bailey in the show, did a great job.

The play was adapted by Joe Landry and was directed by local Brooklyn actor and first-time producer, Jeff Britts.

The production was held in connection with Brooklyn’s annual Christmas Traditions.

Brian Mitchell of Grinnell, a playwright and director, who was in attendance with his wife, Ramona, and he once directed a film version for the stage, said the cast did a great job.

“They had a lot of great characters and cast,” said Mitchell. “It’s a great time of the year.”

Mitchell said it is hard to trim down a three-hour movie into a two-hour play.

“It went good,” said Britts, who directed the production. “I have a great cast, which make it better for the guests.”

“I really enjoyed being in this production,” said Lucia Dooge, who played Mrs. Hatch, Ruth, Dr. Campbell, Sadie and various townspeople. “This is my last one. I’ve been involved with the Brooklyn Opera House for five years, working both backstage and on stage.”

Actors:

George Bailey — Rob Hanlon; Mary Hatch Bailey — Jamin Manatt; Clarence, Billy Bailey, various townspeople — Josh Gerard; Announcer, Joseph, Peter Bailey — Harold Wheeler; Mr. Potter, Harry Bailey, Mr. Gower, Sam Wainwright, various townspeople — Mike McKenna; Violet Bick, various townspeople — Abby Smith; Rose Bailey, various townspeople — Lucia Dooge; Mrs. Hatch, Ruth, Dr. Campbell, Sadie, various townspeople — Karin Zern; Young George Bailey, Tommy Bailey — Isaiah Williams; Young Mary Hatch, Janie Bailey, Bert, various townspeople - Alaina Holmes; Young Harry Bailey, Pete Bailey — Silas Gerard; Zuzu Bailey — Ella Manatt; Stage Manager, Foley Artist — Jeff Britts.