On Theater:

Return with us now to the days of yesteryear — on the radio.

Yes, radio. You more seasoned readers will remember that entertainment medium and some of the fascinating stories that once emanated from it. Well, now it’s back, sort of, but only for five performances.

The Huntington Beach Playhouse has come up with the nostalgic format and will present “It’s a Wonderful Life — A Live Radio Play” from Dec. 9 to 13 at its Library Theater, 7111 Talbert Ave.

This Christmastime staple of the silver screen, often staged by theater groups around this time of year, will be presented as a 1948 radio play with seven actors assuming all the roles. The adaptation is by Joe Landry, and the production will be directed by Rayanne Thorn.

“When patrons enter the theater, they are entering a 1948 radio studio where a cast of seven presents the story of idealistic George Bailey and his realization that we are each important,” Thorn said. “Seven players portray over 30 roles.”

Audiences will celebrate the holiday season with the town of Bedford Falls as the small-town banker is shown how things would have turned out had he not existed.

Comprising the cast will be Neda Armstrong, David Campos, Diane Y. Davis, Tracy Marquis, Tina Miller, Michael Skinner and Louis Pagano.

Curtain times are 8 p.m. Dec. 9 to 12 with a 2 p.m. closing matinee Dec. 13. Tickets are $15, $12 and $7 and may be reserved at (714) 375-0696 or www.hbph.com/boxoffice.

A memorial service for Ron Albertsen, who was active with the Huntington Beach Playhouse in the 1960s and 1970s, will be at 11 a.m. Dec. 11 (Ron’s birthday) at the Huntington Beach Elks Club, 7711 Talbert Ave.

At noon, there will be food and drinks and a chance to socialize and share memories of the esteemed actor and director.

TOM TITUS reviews local theater for the Independent.