The COVID-19 pandemic has put an end to some theatrical productions this year, but Great Bend Community Theatre continues to seek innovative ways to bring live entertainment to the Golden Belt. This week, GBCT is excited to present a radio broadcast of “It’s a Wonderful Life” this holiday season, said theater managers Angela and Wes Meitner.

The broadcast will air on KVGB 1590-AM and 95.5-FM at 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 19 and 20. Listeners can also hear the performance live online by going to www.greatbendpost.com and clicking on the KVGB logo at the top of the page.

Featuring a cast of 14 actors performing more than 40 roles, the broadcast will run about 90 minutes.

“We really wanted to continue bringing performances to the community even during this time when we don’t feel like we can safely gather an audience indoors,” said Bonnie LeRoy, GBCT’s artistic director. “Radio plays were a popular form of entertainment at one time. We’re hoping this will be a fun bit of nostalgia for anyone who remembers when they were common, and a fun new way to experience a show for anyone who hasn’t heard a radio play before.” 

The cast includes Grady Bolding, Jessie DeCarolis, Terra DeCarolis, Charlie Dixon, Cole Fanshier, Emma Fanshier, Karen Gore, Dan Heath, Madison Hembree, Holly Johnson, Matt Mazouch, Marcus Mull, Rob Munden and Jerry Renk. 

“We’re fortunate to have an incredibly talented cast to put a great spin on this classic story,” said LeRoy. “It should be a really entertaining show and hopefully a fun way to spend an evening for our audience.” 

Donations to support GBCT and help with the cost of the production would be gratefully accepted. Donations can be made electronically at paypal.me/gbctcrest, or checks can be mailed to GBCT, P.O. Box 361, Great Bend, KS 67530.

For any questions, contact GBCT by calling 620-792-4228 or send email to gbct.crest@gmail.com.