It's a Wonderful Life: The Radio Play at American Theater Company

Chicago Tribune - Recommended

"...In the ATC production, I found the strongest resonances in the scene where Bandealy's George challenges Mr. Potter about why the poor should have to wait for decent homes. After foreclosures brought to us by "too big to fail" banks, the crummy little Bailey Building and Loan looks like a pretty good alternative."

Chicago Reader - Recommended

"...Jason Gerace's production conveys the message of human interconnectedness underlying the story of despairing small-town businessman George Bailey, whose guardian angel saves him from suicide by revealing his impact on the lives of everyone around him. Kareem Bandealy delivers a solid impersonation of the original Bailey, James Stewart. The supporting actors--including Alan Wilder, doubling as the angel and as Bailey's nemesis, mercenary banker Mr. Potter--deftly play multiple roles with spot-on changes in vocal characterizations. Although it never achieves the emotional impact of the ABT version, this is still a holiday charmer."

Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended

"...This is a true holiday classic that tells the story of one man and his effect on the town where he was born and grew up. A man whose father had a vision and despite his not wanting to be part of this vision, becomes entangled in the tradition that was started. George Bailey (a strong performance by Kareem Bandealy) is a man among men. A warm and caring man who does all that he can to make his community a place where people want to be a community. A place where people can band together to help their neighbors. During these current conditions, this story has an even deeper meaning than in the past and is one that is worth experiencing."

Chicago Theater Beat - Recommended

"...For a radio play performed as a stage play, the foley artist (the person who creates many of the natural, everyday sound effects for a live radio show) always adds an interesting element of sound production. With this show, this doesn’t seem to be occur. The foley artist (Rick Kubes) is set up on the side of the stage with various tools and techniques to add the sounds to the radio broadcast. Plunging in the river, clattering dishes, blizzard winds – these radio elements are not completely audibly realized. Kubes needs to crank up the volume! And speaking of audio, preshow, the audience is given an opportunity to write audiograms."