Director’s Note

Friends, welcome.

This time of year can be fast, hectic, and a blur—filled with last‑minute gifts, travel plans, deadlines, and countless commitments. In a world driven by “instant gratification,” it feels not only prudent, but necessary, to slow down, step away from the constant rush, and reconnect with what matters most: people. And tonight, you’ve chosen to do exactly that. I congratulate you, because you’re in for a real treat.

Join us as we journey back to a time when radio reigned as a dominant form of entertainment—when performers gathered in distant studios and their voices traveled across the airwaves into homes around the country, even the world. Families and friends would gather to hear their favorite programs—The Shadow, Gunsmoke, Suspense, Little Orphan Annie, and so many more. Community was built in those shared moments, as every word, sound, and laugh was experienced together. That’s where the most memorable moments are made: in the company of others.

It’s fitting that we begin this new show series with It’s a Wonderful Life—a story about a man who spends his life in service to others. A man not seeking glory, but answering the call, even when it comes at the expense of his own dreams. George Bailey invests in people—not wealth, not property, not corporate ambition or political power, but in the simple, profound love of his fellow human beings. And that, my friends, is an investment that always yields abundance.

Thank you for joining us on this venture. My hope is that our investment in this production becomes a memory that brings you joy, peace, and a renewed love for your community.

As Clarence reminds us, “No man is a failure who has friends.”

May we all learn from George Bailey.

Wishing you the very best this holiday season.

~ Preston Helms

The Cast

Jake Laurents

Sally Applewhite

Harry “Jazzbo” Heywood

Lana Sherwood

Jerry Lightning

Marva Griffen

Sally Gold

June “Stage Manager”

Freddie Filmore

John Kelly

Cheryl Munson Cameron

Doug Friedman

Collene Torres

Johnny Montano

Diane Schnoebelen

Beverly Webb

Toni Kelly

Preston Helms