Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company Presents...
“IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE” (A LIVE RADIO PLAY) BY JOE LANDRY
for a Limited Engagement with Four Performances Only,
at the historic ASU Kerr in Scottsdale.
"One of the best holiday shows around. This is a fresh and inventive way of reconnecting
with a classic story of love and redemption.” - Chicago Sun-Times
“This adaptation by Joe Landry is a lovable, evocative piece.” - The New York Times
“A fresh theatrical context that creates just the right kind of retro warmth.” - Chicago Tribune
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, adapted by Joe Landry, reimagines the classic story as a 1940s radio broadcast performed live on stage, with a small cast of actors playing multiple characters and using vintage sound effects to tell the story of George Bailey. The play captures the heartwarming tale of George's life and the impact he has on his community. A classic for the entire family.
What:
It's A Wonderful Life. A Live Radio Play. By Joe Landry (file under: live theatre, performance, radio play, classic, Scottsdale)
The holidays are coming early to ASU Kerr in Scottsdale. What better time to ignite the holiday spirit and celebrate the joy of community. "I want to bring a fresh creative interpretation of this holiday classic to the Valley. The themes of family, hope, faith, kindness and forgiveness are all things that we need more of these days" said Mike Arseneault, Scottsdale Old Town Theatre’s Founding Artistic Director. "The film, and this adapted radio play, have become an annual tradition for many."
Synopsis:
Welcome to Bedford Falls. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. Audience members will enjoy seeing all the sound effects created and performed live as well and even enjoy a traditional holiday carol. This is truly an early holiday gift to Scottsdale and a celebration of "faith and community". There are four performances only including one matinee. This show is suitable for the entire family. Don't miss out on what promises to be the "must-see and hear" holiday event of the season.
This volunteer production is directed by Mike Arseneault, artistic director and executive producer of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company and presented in collaboration with ASU Kerr.
When: (Four performances only)
Thursday, November 19, 2026 - 7:00 pm evening performance
Friday, November 20, 2026 - 7:00 pm evening performance
Saturday, November 21, 2026 - 2:00 pm matinee
Saturday, November 21, 2026 - 7:00 pm evening performances
Where (Venue):
ASU Kerr Cultural Center, 6110 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Tickets:
Tickets are $31 (general admission) or $41 (reserved) excluding ticket fees. Tickets are available to purchase in advance online through Ticketmaster or by telephone by calling the ASU KERR Box Office during Box Office hours (Wednesday – Friday, 10am-5pm) at 480-596-2660. Ticket fee includes parking.
Link to Tickets:: https://asukerr.com/series/its-a-wonderful-life-a-live-radio-play/
Cast:
Cast includes many local favorites including: Jonathan [JJ] Hansen (George), Diana Dorell (Mary), Dan Marburger (Clarence, Uncle Billy, Sam Wainwright, Martini), Jeff Huffman (Potter, Old Man Collins, Mr. Welch, Man), Shannon Speagle (Violet, Ernestine, Matilda), Kristin Larish (Josephine, Ruth Dakin Bailey, Nick, Zuzu), Julie Smith Yolles (Sadie Vance, Mrs. Hatch, Horrace The Teller, Dr. Campbell, Petey), Jeff Kulaga (Old Man Gower, Harry Bailey, Bert, Bridgekeeper, Ed, Tommy), Joanne Rizzi (Rose Bailey, Sheriff, Janie, Binky).
About: Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company
Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company. (OTTC) is a volunteer community theatre group produced by RecreateNow LLC that creates FRESH THEATRE. We perform at the historic ASU Kerr and share Louise Kerr’s passion for trailblazing as well and building a vital home and community for theatre arts.
Scottsdale OTTC’s inaugural production was the acclaimed original musical revue Songs From Film, which ran for four performances in January 2026, followed by the hugely popular Pulitzer Prize-nominated Love Letters By A.R. Gurney in May 2026.
The purpose of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company is to entertain, provoke, educate, inspire and move our audiences with our creative interpretations and storytelling.
To get involved or become a show sponsor of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company, contact them by email at scottsdaleottc@gmail.com.
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