Penobscot to Present IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Bangor Opera House-Christmas, circa 1946-as Penobscot Theatre Company prepares to immerse audiences in the world of George Bailey, the everyman hero of Frank Capra's cinematic classic. "With lively music, Foley sounds, and a bevy of colorful characters, this production tells the story we all know and love within the story of a 1940s celebrity-studded radio program, within the world of post-war America," explains Producing Artistic Director Bari Newport.

Nine actors will bring more than 50 characters to life, the familiar citizens of Bedford Falls along with the stars and staff of a radio show broadcasting It's a Wonderful Life on Christmas Eve. Visiting artists Mark Chambers, Blythe Coons, and Tony Larkin will join local actors Benjamin Layman and Jen Shepard in the rapid and often hilarious interplay. Luke Cote, a recent graduate of Bangor High School, will share the stage as an authentic Foley artist, creating over a hundred sounds in the glorious tradition of old-time radio. Robert Brangwynne, Elisabeth Budd, and Lana Sabbagh will round out the cast.

Audiences will find themselves in the 1940s from the moment they enter the Bangor Opera House. Era-specific concessions, live radio commercials and an interactive, musical pre-show will all add up to an unforgettable theatrical experience, perfect for the whole family. "Attending our holiday show has become a tradition for families throughout greater Bangor. What better story to share than this beloved American classic that speaks directly to the importance of an individual within his or her community?" says Newport. "It is timeless, hopeful and the most beautiful love story."

Director Rod Menzies of Los Angeles, California, is leading the project in collaboration with Music Director Larrance Fingerhut, owner of ImprovAcadia. The design team includes Sean McClelland of Florida (scenic); Jonathan Spencer of New York City (lighting); and Maine artists Kevin Koski (costumes), Meredith Perry (props), and Brandie Rita (sound).

Recognizing the multigenerational appeal of this family favorite, the theatre has scheduled Saturday matinees among four weeks of performances, starting December 3. For school groups and home-schoolers, the theatre is offering four weekday student matinee performances, December 8, 10, 15, and 17; tickets are $6 per students, and attendees will receive a study guide before the show and have the opportunity afterward to hear from the actors and members of the creative team through a post-show talk-back session. For more information and to book seats at a student matinee, contact the theatre's Director of Education Amy Roeder at (207) 947-6618 ext. 107. Tickets for all regular performances may be purchased online at www.penobscottheatre.org or by calling the box office at (207) 942-3333.

Tickets are also on sale now for the theatre's special New Year's Eve presentation of A Piece of Her Heart: A Tribute to Janis, December 31, 6:00 and 9:00 pm.

It's a Wonderful Life is produced in partnership with Bangor Savings Bank, Dead River Company, Vance Gray Wealth Management, Veazie Veterinary Clinic, and Wells Fargo Advisors. The theatre gratefully acknowledges the generous support provided throughout the season by the following sponsors: Bangor Daily News, Blueberry Broadcasting, Canyon Networks, The Charles Inn, The Maine Edge, Darling's, Downtown with Rich Kimball, WLBZ Channel 2, and ZONE Radio.

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