Gettysburg Stage Presents IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE 12/11-19

As George Bailey struggles against a greedy banker to save his small savings and loan business in Bedford Falls, it seems he's worth more dead than alive. Just then, an angel named Clarence is asked to intervene -- and maybe earn his wings!

Gettysburg Stage brings the radio play version of the classic holiday tale "IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE" to the stage at three locations over December 11, 12, 18 and 19. With a cast of 16 regional actors stepping up to the microphones to handle 63 character roles, the action is fast-paced and heart-warming.

Like the radio dramas of the 1940s, this production features most sound effects and music being done on stage. "We think audiences will enjoy this unique approach to live theatre," says the play's director, David Hurlbert. "The large number of roles also allows us to include both young and seasoned actors. It's a fun challenge for them with some of the fast character changes."

During a time when banking practices are in the news and people are struggling with rising unemployment and their own frailties, this is also a story of redemption and hope. Gettysburg Stage is known for its sometimes edgy productions that have addressed issues of alcoholism, prostitution, suicide, aging, religion, terrorism and other current themes.

There are no advance reservations, but seating is limited to about 50 at most of the performance locations. Because the volunteers of Gettysburg Stage do not maintain a permanent theater, there is currently no phone line. Groups of 10 or more wishing to attend a show should write to gettysburgstage@hotmail.com or visit the website at www.gettysburgstage.org.

"We try to keep our costs low and make theatre affordable and accessible," adds Hurlbert. "You may not find plushy seats, but you will find the raw love of performance that makes live theatre special.

"Several of our actors have worked in theatre and film for many years. But, since one of our goals is to involve the greater community in both live performance and societal awareness, with a show like this we are able to introduce several new faces and voices to the stage."

The cast includes Bob Appleton, Sarah Corradett, Ryyn Currey, Melissa Hajek, David Hurlbert, Jim Krut, Jeff Leinbach, Doris Merson, Brooke Myers, Bailey Nordin, Rebecca O'Leary, Ken Pierson, Joan Reeve, Tom Rodgers, Hilary Snesrud and Paul Witt.

All performances are open to the public. Ticket prices are $15, with discounts for seniors 60 and over, students and current military in uniform or with ID. Gettysburg Stage also supports the Cell Phones for Soldiers program. Persons who donate an unused cell phone at the box office will receive a $3 discount off the regular admission price. Discounts may not be combined.

This production is underwritten in part by Adams Electric Cooperative. It also includes appropriate "radio commercials" from the cooperative.

Performances of "IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE" are scheduled for:

December 11 - (2 p.m.) Hess Room of Minnich Manor - Quincy Village, Quincy, Pa.

December 12 - (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.), New Oxford Borough Building, 124 N. Peters St., New Oxford, Pa.

December 18 - (8 p.m.) and December 19 - (2 p.m.) G.A.R. Building, 60 E. Middle Street, Gettysburg, Pa.

Gettysburg Stage is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit theatre company that seeks to offer innovative theatre experiences for regional audiences, actors and directors.

 

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