MEDIA RELEASE__Frank Capra’s timeless film classic has touched the hearts of millions for generations, and America 250 in Bluffton, Ohio is thrilled to now be bringing it to our town this holiday season. 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of the film, which is still embraced today as a cherished holiday tradition by families around the world. This production's unique format as a radio play calls back to the charm of a bygone era, making for a memorable and joyful holiday experience for all.

THE ADAPTATION
It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play invites theatergoers to take their seats in the live studio audience of a 1940s radio broadcast, high above New York City at Christmastime, where a company of radio actors has gathered to perform one of the most beloved holiday stories ever told.  It’s the timeless story of George Bailey, a man who has spent his life putting the needs of others before his own.  When a crisis forces him to look back on the life he’s lived, he discovers just how much one person can mean to the people around him. This joyful production brings the town of Bedford Falls to life, with the actors playing dozens of characters, a foley artist creating sound effects live onstage, and, of course, some carols along the way. It’s the holiday classic you know by heart, alive and on stage in Bluffton, Ohio for the first time ever. 

THE CAST
Familiar Bluffton faces will bring a bevy of Bedford Falls characters to life for the Live Radio Play.  Bluffton English Lutheran Pastor Rob Glenn, leads the company as George Bailey, opposite his lovely wife, Kate (Rodabaugh) Glenn as Mary Bailey.  Dave Brauen earns his wings as Clarence the angel assigned to help George see his goodness, while Kevin Gratz takes on the villainous Mr. Henry F. Potter.  Show director Pat Rodabaugh voices several of the important women in the story, while co-director, Dan Basinger,  lends his voice for the part of Freddy Filmore, the radio station’s announcer.  Bluffton area actors David Sorensen, Paul Briggs, Xander Glenn, Daphne Bower, Caroline Stratton, Zoe Glenn, Malcolm Wells, and Noah Marsteller round out the cast.  The stage will be complete with live sound effects and live music.  Daniel Creeger portrays the Foley sound artist creating live sound effects and Sandy Miller will return to her hometown to be at the piano keyboard.

PERFORMANCES
The play is part of the America 250 in Bluffton, Ohio’s contribution to our village’s Blaze of Lights weekend.  It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play will be performed twice on Sunday November 29, at 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. at the Bluffton Middle School cafetorium stage.  

Cost for general admission is $5.00.