Everyone looks forward to the Movie each year playing on TV numerous times throughout the holidays. The play/radio show re-enactment of this movie is also a heart tugging drama for the whole family to enjoy. It is so much fun to walk into the theatre a little early and see the actors set up for the show. It is Christmas Eve, 1946 and of course a very festive time for all. You can see some getting the coffee prepared, another getting all the microphones ready, yet some are just arriving and visiting with each other. One actor is trying to sneak in bourbon. The sound effects actor is making sure all his equipment is ready. The sound effects are so well done with the slamming doors, footsteps, wind blowing, ice breaking, sirens, etc. It is a real education for those who had not experience this before. The actors practice their singing before the radio show starts. Then the MC warms us up so we will clap at the right time and does the introductions. We older folks remember when we would sit in front of the radio listening to stories, mysteries and other entertainment. It was so much fun with all these fond memories.

All the actors do such a good job of each playing multiple roles in the reading/acting the movie. It is so cleverly done, you need to see it to enjoy for yourself.

The American Heartland is a great theatre to come to. It has easy indoor parking, comfortable seating and you may bring your beverages into the show. All the seat are perfect viewing and none too far from the stage. Come early in the evening and use the ticket to get a % off your dinner at a nice restaurant in the Crown Center Complex.

American Heartland has a special treat as well happening Saturday, November 21, evening performance and Sunday, November 22, matinee performance. The actress Karolyn Grimes, who played ZuZu in the movie known for her famous line, “Every time a bell rings, an Angel gets his wings”,will be at the American Heartland. You will be delighted to meet her and share in the holiday magic.

In honor of Karolyn Grimes appearance at the production, American Heartland is offering a Family 4 Pack of tickets to It’s a Wonderful Life: a Live Radio Play for just $80.00. The Family 4 Pack is valid for two adult tickets and two students tickets to any performance through November 29th, 2009 except weekday matinees, and can be purchased through the Box Office at 816-842-9999 or at www.ahtkc.com.

NOTE:
Also an ASL- interpreted performance is scheduled for Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at 7:30 PM.

Review By:
Marieann Koehler