Rannells, Hilty, Burgess Star in Broadway’s ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’

Andrew Rannells, Megan Hilty, and Tituss Burgess are set to star in the Broadway premiere of "It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" during the upcoming holiday season. The production, directed by Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, will bring the classic Frank Capra film to life in a unique theatrical format. This adaptation reimagines the beloved story as a live radio broadcast, complete with sound effects performed on stage, offering audiences a nostalgic and immersive experience.

Joining Rannells, Hilty, and Burgess in the ensemble cast are veteran actors Harry Hamlin and Lisa Rinna. Rannells, known for his roles in "Gutenberg!" and "The Book of Mormon," will take on a prominent role in the production. Megan Hilty, a celebrated Broadway performer recognized for her work in "Death Becomes Her" and "Wicked," brings her vocal and acting prowess to the stage. Tituss Burgess, acclaimed for his performance in "Oh, Mary!" and his role in the television series "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," adds another layer of star power to the cast. Harry Hamlin, known for his television work on "Anne Rice's Mayfair Witches" and "Mad Men," and Lisa Rinna, a familiar face from "Days of Our Lives" and "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," round out the principal cast, promising a dynamic and engaging performance.

"It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" is an adaptation that captures the spirit and narrative of the 1946 film "It's a Wonderful Life." The original film, directed by Frank Capra, tells the story of George Bailey, a man whose life's struggles lead him to contemplate suicide on Christmas Eve, only to be visited by an angel named Clarence who shows him what life would have been like if he had never been born. The play's format as a live radio show allows for a creative interpretation, emphasizing the power of storytelling and the intimacy of live performance. This approach often involves actors playing multiple roles and the Foley artists creating sound effects in real-time, adding a layer of theatricality and charm.

The Broadway production is expected to run for a limited engagement, capitalizing on the holiday season's demand for festive and family-friendly entertainment. The choice of "It's a Wonderful Life" is particularly fitting for this time of year, as the film has become a perennial holiday classic, resonating with themes of hope, community, and the impact of individual lives. The live radio play format, while not new, offers a fresh perspective on a familiar story, appealing to both long-time fans of the film and new audiences seeking a unique theatrical experience. The involvement of Jerry Zaks, a director with a proven track record of success on Broadway, further bolsters anticipation for the production's quality and execution. The casting of established stars like Rannells, Hilty, and Burgess ensures significant audience draw and critical attention for the show's debut.