By Charlene Baldridge | SDUN Theater Critic 
As its annual holiday show, Cygnet Theatre Company has presented Joe Landry’s “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” since 2006. The current production, playing through Dec. 31 in Old Town, is the last for now because Artistic Director Sean Murray, who stages the work, feels it’s time to move on to something else.
The 1946 Frank Capra film from which “It’s a Wonderful Life” is adapted is perfect family entertainment, and what could be better than brunch or dinner in Old Town followed or preceded by this redemptive celebration of goodness?
Each actor in the nine-person company portrays at least two characters, so it is great fun to watch their display of versatility as they enact the beloved film. First of all, they portray film and stage stars gathered in a Manhattan broadcast studio at Radio Station WCYG. Shirley Pierson’s period costumes are delightful. Murray’s set and Michelle Caron’s lighting design complete the scene, with Matt Lescault-Wood’s sound providing impeccable support.
It’s Christmas Eve 1946 and the players are participating in a live broadcast of the film that starred Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed.
Born in the small town of Bedford Falls, George Bailey (Tom Andrew) had big plans for his life, including initial escapes to college and the big city followed by travel to exotic places. Due to circumstances, Bailey watches everyone else’s achievements while he stays, having become CEO of his father’s savings and loan. He marries his childhood sweetheart, Mary (Amanda Sitton) and has children. When Uncle Billy (Tim West) loses the bank deposit and the nasty banker, Mr. Potter (Jonathan Dunn-Rankin), gains the upper hand, threatening to take over the savings and loan, it is a calamity.
George decides he’s worth more dead than alive, and his life amounts to nothing, despite Mary, his adoring children and the tacit admiration of the entire community.
When Heaven finds out George’s despair and intent, Clarence, an angel, is dispatched to save George’s life, which he does, thus earning his wings after waiting 250 years. In effect, the play and film are a celebration of simple virtues, family ties and the American work ethic. Sentimental? Yes, but utterly uplifting, even upon sixth viewing or hundredth.
The above actors plus Jason Connors, Melissa Fernandes, Veronica Murphy and Patrick Osteen, plus music director Billy Thompson, greet the audience in their movie star personas, then assume their “Wonderful Life” characters, endearing themselves over the course of the next two hours.
Each of these marvelous actors – and particularly Andrew at his Jimmy Stewart best – is magnificent though understated. The piece is a sweet return to “the good old days” that should not be missed, especially now, when these particular good old days are about to go away.
“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” continues at 7:30 Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Saturdays and 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 31 at Cygnet Theatre, 4040 Twiggs Street, Old Town San Diego. Visit www.cygnettheatre.com or call (619) 337-1525 to check holiday schedule and to purchase tickets.
