on the Francis J. Greenburger Mainstage
Adapted for radio from Frank Capra’s 1946 film
By Anthony E. Palermo
It’s a Wonderful Life! is based on the story, The Greatest Gift, by Philip Van Doren Stern
Directed by Charlotte Moore
Musical direction by David Hancock Turner
Step back in time to radio station W.I.R.T. on Christmas Eve, 1946, where Frank Capra’s holiday classic It’s a Wonderful Life comes thrillingly to life before your eyes—and ears! Irish Rep’s celebrated production of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, adapted by Anthony Palermo and directed by Charlotte Moore, reimagines the beloved film as a live radio broadcast filled with nostalgic songs, vintage commercials, and delightful handmade sound effects.
George Bailey, the kindest man in Bedford Falls, has always put others first—until one fateful night when he begins to doubt if his life has made a difference. Enter Clarence, a guardian angel still waiting to earn his wings, who shows George how the world would look if he had never been born.
With six actors portraying more than two dozen unforgettable characters, this heartwarming production captures the magic of the Golden Age of Radio. It reminds us that “no one is a failure who has friends.” And yes—Clarence finally gets his wings.
December 3 – December 31, 2025
Member tickets go on sale Oct 30, 2025, at 1PM
Public tickets go on sale Nov 4, 2025, at 1PM
Save 20% or more all season long & enjoy exclusive benefits when you become a member today for as little as $100.
Press from our 2017 production:
“This brisk revival (it runs just seventy minutes), directed by Charlotte Moore, is brimming with heart and wit and good cheer.” – The New Yorker
“If it’s the holiday spirit you’re after and tired of all the hype this time of year, you can do no better than spending 70 wonderful minutes experiencing the delightful re-telling of Frank Capra’s classic movie.” -NY1, Roma Torre
“This feather-light show is a small triumph…amusing parodies of 1940s commercials and an agreeable bonhomie among the cast, enabl[e] this production, like the angel Clarence, to earn its wings.” –The New York Times
Trailer from our 2012 production:
Photos from our 2012 production:
