Name: It’s A Wonderful Life
Start: 2025-10-31T05:00:00.000Z
End: 2025-12-21T06:00:00.000Z

Adapted by Joe Landry
Based on the story "The Greatest Gift" by Philip Van Doren Stern
Directed by Jonathan Hetler

October 31 – December 21, 2025

Stackner Cabaret

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Heartwarming, Hilarious and Delightfully Retro

Experience the magic of Christmas like never before! This uplifting holiday classic comes to life as a high-energy radio play, blending 1940s retro charm with hilarious theatrical hijinks, as five multi-talented actors portray dozens of characters with vintage sound effects, favorite songs and lovable Christmas spirit, right in front of your eyes (and ears). A mix of humor, heart and hope, this enchanting show has captivated audiences across the country and delivers a nostalgic treat that’s gift wrapped for you and your loved ones of all ages.

“Critic’s choice! A compelling Christmas showpiece.” – Time Out Magazine

“A must-see! Live actors raise the work’s emotional thermostat.”
– The San Diego Union-Tribune

Approximate Running Time:

1 hour and 40 minutes with no intermission

Recommended Age:

10 and up

Program Custom Title Seating Chart Custom Title

Associate Producers
Caryl & Frank Briscoe • Kristine Krause & Scott Patulski

Part of the David Kundert Stackner Season

Milwaukee Rep presents *It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play*. Pictured L to R: Eva Nimmer and Daniel Arana. Photo by Mark Frohna.

Milwaukee Rep presents *It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play*. Pictured L to R: David Flores and Melinda Parrett. Photo by Mark Frohna.

Milwaukee Rep presents *It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play*. Pictured L to R: Daniel Arana, Melinda Parrett, David Flores. Photo by Mark Frohna.

Milwaukee Rep presents *It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play*. Pictured: Daniel Arana. Photo by Mark Frohna.

54.png Milwaukee Rep presents *It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play*. Pictured Wade Elkins. Photo by Mark Frohna.

Milwaukee Rep presents *It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play*. Pictured L to R: Eva Nimmer, Wade Elkins, David Flores, Melinda Parrett, Daniel Arana. Photo by Mark Frohna.

Milwaukee Rep presents *It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio*. Pictured L to R: David Flores, Daniel Arana, Eva Nimmer, Melinda Parrett and Wade Elkins. Photo by Mark Frohna.

1 / 8

Fresh and fun... neatly executed!

— Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Beloved classic... a story that we need.

— Urban Milwaukee

I can’t think of a better way to kick off the Christmas season—with laughter, love that’s evident, and just a few tears.

— Shepherd Express

The perfect way to celebrate the season!

— Around The Town Chicago

Daniel Arana

Jake Laurents

Wade Elkins

Harry Heywood

David Flores

Freddie Filmore

Eva Nimmer

Sally Applewhite

Melinda Parrett

Lana Sherwood

Jonathan Hetler

Director

Joe Kinosian

Original Music & Arrangements

Caroline Dischell

Scenic Designer

Bobby Sharon

Costume Designer

Bentley Heydt

Lighting Designer

Zack Berinstein

Sound Designer

María Amenábar Farias

Casting Director

Jade Bruno*

Stage Manager

Star Howard

Production Assistant

Adri Bollinger

Assistant Director

Annika Perez-Krikorian

Line Producer

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