South County Theatre is Bringing the Heartwarming, Holiday Classic to the Stage

“It’s a Wonderful Life” is the story of George Bailey, a man who gives up his own dreams to support and uplift the people of his small-town community. On Christmas Eve, facing a overwhelming financial crisis, George falls into despair and wishes he had never been born. With the help of his guardian angel, Clarence, George is granted his wish and shown what the world would be like without him. Through this journey, he discovers the profound impact he has had on others and realizes the immeasurable worth of his own life. What greater gift could there be?

The well-known holiday classic film was based on the story “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern. The 1946 movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” was directed by Frank Capra and earned five Academy Award nominations including a best actor nod for Jimmy Stewart who played George Bailey. This play was adapted for the stage by James W Rogers based on the film.

South County is known for putting on outstanding performances such as their spring musical “A Chorus Line”, which went on to win two Cappies awards. Likewise, SCHS has transformed classic films into fabulous stage shows including “Singin’ In The Rain” and “The 39 Steps”, both in 2024.

Theatre Arts Director, Jewel Schrader Orem, selected “It’s A Wonderful Life” based upon the students input last year. The students thought it would be a great family show and that it would be great to have a holiday show. “The story is so life affirming, and I thought our community would appreciate an inspiring message that the whole family could enjoy and the story is a gentle reminder of the joy and value one can feel when selflessly giving to others.” said Schrader

The technical theatre elements of “It’s A Wonderful Life” are also exciting to create. “From the unique time-period costumes and props to beautiful lighting and special effects, this show gave our tech students a chance to design, create, and learn about the past.” said Schrader.

The show runs Thursday, December 11th through the Saturday the 13th. Show times are 7:00 pm each day with a 2:00 pm matinee on Saturday. Tickets are on sale for $10 at https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15597/south-county-high-school-theatre.

In addition to seeing the show, please consider stopping by SCHS Theatre’s fundraiser on Saturday the 13th at 5pm; you can have Cocoa and Cookies with Characters, visit the SCHS Band’s silent auction, and purchase a treat at our bakery sale.