We’ve all watched Jimmy Stewart in “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Eli Garmon, Ada High School grad, gets to experience it first-hand this weekend in the University of Findlay’s Theatre Program’s radio play version of the Frank Capra holiday classic.

The Ada grad plays the leading role of George Bailey and Young George and you may watch the production free as it is livestreamed via Broadway on Demand. Showtimes are Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m.

The weekend performance is inspired by Capra’s film. The Findlay production takes place in the following setting:

It’s Christmas Eve, 1946, and six actors have gathered in WMAQ Studio A for a live radio broadcast, ready to take on dozens of characters and recreate Bedford Falls with foley sound effects and virtuosic, high-energy performances. 

In this production, Garmon actually plays the part of 1940s actor Jake Laurents, who plays the part of George Bailey.

Adapted by Joe Landry, produced by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc., The Chicago Tribune calls it, “A well-loved tale told with style, charm and a heart so big it could burst the ribcage of the harshest Grinch.”

The livestreamed performance will be free as a gift to the Findlay community from the Theatre Program. Access tickets to view the livestreamed performance on the Visual Performing Arts calendar of events webpage by clicking here.

Previous notable roles played by Garmon:

Ada High School:
Dirk/ Kirk Carlton- Murder in the House of Horrors
Francis Nurse- A Voice in the Dark: A Salem Story
Sammy- The Wedding Singer

University of Findlay:
Act 2 Clown- The 39 Steps
Clitandre- The Misanthrope
Albert- Newsies
Actor- The End of the World Improv Showcase
Sound Designer- Cabaret

Weathervane Playhouse (Professional Summer Stock Theatre):
Assistant Sound Designer for the 2019 summer season

He will also be the lead projection designer for University of Findlay's upcoming mainstage musical, Ordinary Days.