By Jesus Garcia ’23

Every year, Chaminade High School hosts its fall drama production. Despite all of the obstacles this school year, the Drama Club has been able to keep this annual tradition alive with their show based off of the holiday classic, It’s a Wonderful Life. Released in January 1947, the film follows George Bailey on Christmas Eve of 1945 and his spiraling depression. His despair drives him to the point of suicide, until one person makes a last-ditch attempt to save his life.

Due to COVID-19, the operations of events such as Masses and extracurriculars at Chaminade have changed. With everything becoming socially distanced, the Drama Club and Production Crew developed the idea to present their theatrical performance in the form of a socially distanced radio show. The Production Crew have worked diligently on making sure the stage is perfect for the show.

There are four plexiglass radio booths socially distanced for actors and actresses to safely play their part within. Everyone outside of these booths will be wearing masks for the safety of the company. Occupancy on stage is limited, and such restrictions mean others roles will be played in unique forms. One new role for this play is the sound effects role, which enables an actor to have the role of exclusively making many various sound effects for the radio show. Although these safety precautions will offer the audience an imaginative new experience, the play’s ability to go on is once again testimony to the creative and persistent work of the Chaminade community to maintain the usual Christmas cheer.

Playing the role of George Bailey is Jack Jozefowski ’22.

“I was very eager and excited to hear I got him in the show,” Jack explained. “More specifically, I was excited to share something I love doing with people. On stage and in this character specifically, I seem to connect with the character on a personal level.”

Although Jack only started his theatrical career at Chaminade during his sophomore year in Newsies, he has previous on-stage experience from a younger age.

Liam Fitzpatrick ’23 is an actor shouldering multiple roles, especially the part of Harry Bailey, George Bailey’s brother. Similar to Jack, Liam is no stranger to theater, being a member of the theater and arts club in his grammar school.

“When playing the role of Harry, I definitely try to emulate the character in the movie and put on this almost buttery smooth voice and kind of role with it from there,” Liam detailed.

The Chaminade Drama Club and Production Crew have put forth a tremendous effort to keep the musical theater tradition in Darby Auditorium running smoothly. Please be sure to support the students’ dedication and talents by attending on either Friday, December 11 from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. or Saturday, December 12 from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Tickets will be available to purchase on Chaminade’s website.