Return to a ‘Wonderful Life’

At SCC Dec. 1, 2|

Few Americans can possibly have avoided watching the classic Frank Capra holiday film “It’s a Wonderful Life” on television, at least once or twice. The film, which was panned by critics and shunned by movie theater audiences when it was first released in 1946, has gone on to be one of the most beloved holiday movies of all time, due to its omnipresent annual appearances on cable TV. But there is another way to appreciate the touching tale of a desperate man whose knotty, disappointment-filled life is magically changed by the intervention of an awkward angel named Clarence. There are two other ways, actually – on the radio, and on the stage.

As a special holiday benefit for Sonoma Arts Live, both of those tasty entertainment alternatives will be combined into one eye-pleasing and ear-dazzling show. “It’s a Wonderful Life: The Radio Play,” adapted from the Capra movie script and the original short story by Philip Van Doren Stern, is what it sounds like, and a whole lot more.

Set during the 1940s, it’s a story within a story, as a team of radio players bring George Bailey’s story to life on Christmas Eve, which we watch them create from words on pages, radio station microphones, and a series of crazy sound effects whipped up using an array of household implements.

Featuring actors Anthony Martinez and Cindy Brillhart-True, and a cast of other local favorites, the two-night-only event takes place Dec. 1st and 2nd, and – this being a benefit – Sonoma Arts Live is offering two ways to enjoy the show. General audiences can enjoy the performance itself, while a limited number of VIP tickets grant holders to extra-special seats, a pre-party featuring the cast, ’40s era food and drink, live music by the Defying Gravity Gals, and premium wines and deserts at intermission.

Proceeds from the event will help Sonoma Arts Live raise necessary funds to present its next season of theatrical shows and events at the Sonoma Community Center. Donations are being accepted even if a patron is not able to attend the performance. Either way, the local nonprofit hopes that the seasonal offering will not only be a great way for residents of the Valley to kick off the holidays, but will help ensure that 2016 will be a “wonderful” year for the arts.

“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” runs Dec. 1 and 2 at the Sonoma Community Center, 276 E. Napa St., Sonoma. Show begins at 7:30 p.m. General tickets are $26 in advance, $31 at the door, and VIP seats (including pre-show and party) are $45 in advance and $55 at the door. Balcony seats are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Tickets available at www.sonomaartslive.org or by calling 974-1931.

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