The Whistle Stop Theatre Company is well known for their imaginative interpretations of classic works. This holiday season, Ashland’s theatre troop moves the American classic "It's a Wonderful Life" from the silver screen to your podcast stream in a heartwarming four-part series for the whole family.
In this reimagining, audiences will experience the beloved tale through the unique perspectives of Uncle Billy, Mary Hatch, and Mr. Potter. The final episode, narrated by Clarence re-named Clara, the guardian angel striving to earn their wings, promises a fresh and uplifting take on this timeless story.
Before the final podcast episode is released free of charge on whistlestoptheatre.weebly.com, the Whistle Stop Theatre Company will host a special live performance at the historic Ashland Theatre on Sunday, December 15 at 3 PM. This event will be followed by a screening of the classic film "It's a Wonderful Life." In between shows, Ashland’s newest and hottest restaurant Ash & Olive serves a wonderful themed menu.
The Town of Ashland inspired Whistle Stop Founding Artistic Director Lou Keeton to adapt the cherished screenplay. “There are a lot of parallels between Bedford Falls and Ashland, Virginia,” Keeton muses. “It's a Wonderful Life advocates for community, charity, and togetherness. The Center of the Universe exemplifies those enduring themes daily.”
The theme of neighborly love is never brighter than during Ashland’s Light Up the Tracks. November through New Year's, downtown Ashland is illuminated with festive events, celebrations, and over ten thousand lights. The Whistle Stop Theatre Company’s adaptation of It’s a Wonderful Life aims to contribute by providing accessible festivities for all ages.
“Telling the whole It’s a Wonderful Life story in four parts as a podcast allows anyone to tune in at any time free of charge,” explains Keeton. “Performing the fourth episode live at the Ashland Theatre invites our neighbors to come together and share the experience. After all, ‘No man is a failure who has friends.’”
It’s a Wonderful Life - the podcast will be available to stream in November 2024. Tickets to the live performance are available for $10 at AshlandTheatre.org
