Avon Players Presents Radio Play Version of 'It’s A Wonderful Life'

 Avon Players is bringing a holiday classic to town with Marty Bufalini’s It’s a Wonderful Life – A Live Radio Play, opening Friday, Nov. 29.

The play, an adaptation of Frank Capra’s beloved holiday classic, is set in a 1940s radio studio with actors playing the many parts and performing the radio sound effects of the timeless story of George Bailey learning what life would be like if he had never been born. The American Film Institute considers the film version as the most inspirational American film of all time.

Marty Bufalini’s adaptation has previously been performed throughout the Detroit area. Marty is the Director of the show and also performs several of the key voices, including that of Mr. Potter. Marty can be heard as an on-air personality on WWJ-AM 950. He is an accomplished film and television actor, appearing in films such as Gran Torino and recently on AMC’s Low Winter Sun. Marty has lovingly transformed this movie masterpiece into an actual radio play, providing all of the sound effects used in the genre. Marty is a Grosse Pointe resident.

Playing the part of the announcer and several other voices is Detroit radio legend Chuck Daugherty.  Chuck began his career years ago as one of the original cast members of The Lone Ranger radio show and the Sgt. Preston of the Yukon radio show. Chuck’s career in radio led to his substituting for Dick Clark on American Bandstand. Chuck is noted as one of the most influential Rock and Roll DJs in Michigan history. Chuck is a resident of Shelby Township.

The cast ifsfilled with local talent, including Rochester residents Eddie Schodowski (George Baily), Michael Berry (Young George), Alyssa Moore (Zuzu), Mark Misch (Mr. Gower); Shelby Township residents Lori Smith (Mary Bailey), Jean Miller (Ma Bailey), Matt Druminski (Harry Bailey), David Barents (Ernie), Erin Abell (Young Mary); Macomb Township residents Richard Marcil (Uncle Billy), Sonny Pacitto (Young Harry); Washington Township resident Audrey Brown (Mrs. Hatch) and Milford Township resident Mike Olsem (Clarence).

“This production is the perfect opportunity for people of all ages to enjoy the holidays,” said Joseph Munem, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations for Avon Players. “The Rochester area has become the center of holiday celebrations in this region. Those looking to enhance their seasonal fun should have a bite to eat in downtown Rochester, see “It’s a Wonderful Life” and then take in the holiday light show downtown.”

There are eight performances of Marty Bufalini’s It’s a Wonderful Life – A Live Radio Play: Friday, Nov. 29 at 8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30 at 8 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m., Friday, Dec. 6 at 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 7 at 8 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 8 at 2 p.m., Friday, Dec. 12 at 8 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $16 per person and may be ordered by calling the box office at 248-608-9077 or order online at www.avonplayers.org.

Avon Players is located at 1185 Washington in Rochester Hills.