Reviews of It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Audience Raves
"Unique loved the intimate feel of it."
"What a wonderful, feel-good, sweet classic. I love the entire cast!"
"Very creative and moving rendition of this classic."
"I needed an uplifting performance like this. 2022 had been a rough year. Thank you for the fun show!"
"It was such a fun time. A great adaptation of a favorite classic."
"Very innovative. I know the story well and love its message. It was good to see the performers take various parts. They are all so multi-talented.
Local Reviews
"If you're looking for a feel-good show to get you into the holiday spirit, and especially if you're a fan of the movie it's based on, put It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play on your list. It's sweet, comforting, and not at all demanding ... it's the theatrical equivalent of hot cocoa with whipped cream."
-BroadwayWorld
"Confession: I’ve never seen the 1946 film It’s a Wonderful Life. ... So I came to Portland Center Stage’s It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play a complete novice on all fronts. And it was a delightful way to experience this story for the first time. ... Call up that relative of yours who always turns on the film at the holiday gathering. Say you want to give their present a little early, and take them to see this heartwarming show. Instead of gifting the latest gadget, make a Christmas memory the two of you will treasure forever. -PDX Parent
"This fun and heart-warming story, with its focus on giving, self-sacrifice, and a visitor from another realm, has been a seasonal favorite since its inception. The fun radio play format breathes new life into an already-worthy member of the holiday canon. Chip Miller and six talented performers deliver a fine production." -Judy Nedry
National Reviews
"Funny, exuberant, heart-warming and spirit-lifting … there is enough holiday spirit packed into this performance to carry theater goers right into the New Year." -The Independent
“It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play is "on the air" and the show will enthrall you with its charm.” -BroadwayWorld
“This adaptation by Joe Landry is a lovable, evocative piece.” -The New York Times
“There are many charming bits throughout the show, from the irresistibly hokey commercials to the sharply delineated characterizations.” -BroadwayWorld
Current & Upcoming
Improvisation Classes for Beginners
Whether you're looking to get more confident in social situations, think quicker on your feet, or get in touch with your imaginative side, these "one-off" improv classes will set you on the path to success!
Adult Class : TWELFTH NIGHT, Before & After
Join veteran actor Joe Costa for a unique opportunity to take a “deep dive” into both Shakespeare’s text of Twelfth Night, and the PCS Production. Participants will read the play out loud as a group, with “intermissions” provided for lively discussion of themes and content. Interested participants will have a chance to act in selected scenes, guided by the instructor.
Improv Comedy: Love, Shakespeare
Witness the Magic of unscripted Elizabethan comedy! Step into the offbeat world of Love, Shakespeare, where seasoned Portland comedians attempt something audacious: performing a fully improvised Elizabethan play based on your suggestions!
Albina Music Trust presents A Brown Branch Christmas
Celebrate this holiday season with A Brown Branch Christmas at Portland Center Stage. Now in its fourth season, this two-night big band celebration features directors Domo Branch and Charlie Brown III guiding a heavy 15-piece lineup of regional and national musicians.
BIPOC Affinity Night DJ Party with ALoSo
Join us for a double feature BIPOC Affinity Night, featuring a live DJ set by ALoSo, plus holiday craft market vendor tables, art exhibits by Albina Music Trust Wall to Wall Sound and Jason Hill's Favorite Things, with complimentary select drinks provided by Multnomah Whiskey Library and Deschutes Brewery while supplies last.
Winter Teen Academy: Scene Work
Calling all teens! Are you looking to expand your acting skills and be the best scene partner you can be for your fellow actors? In this class, we will dig deep into scene study, character motivation, and active listening, while learning the necessary questions to ask in every rehearsal situation. You'll develop fuller characters and deeper relationships on stage by partnering in scene work — and have lots of fun too!
Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).
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