Johnston Actor Performs in "It's a Wonderful Life" This Weekend

Jason Robert LeClair and the Rhode Island Theatre Ensemble are teaming up to bring "It’s a Wonderful Life" to St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center this week starting Friday.

Among the cast members is Michael Martins of Johnston.

A holiday classic and American cultural icon, "It’s a Wonderful Life" has become a staple of our collective lives, LeClair said.

"The film that enters our living rooms around the country and has given us a spirit of hope for our own futures since 1947 has been transformed into this live stage presentation by playwright James W. Rodgers," according to the production's release.

The Rhode Island Theatre Ensemble, based in Burriville, asked LeClair, a teacher at Beacon Charter School, and author, to take the reigns and create his holiday vision at the historic St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center in Woonsocket.

LeClair has placed his unique stamp on something that is intrinsic to our culture and close to our hearts. Surrounded by the beauty of the structure that houses North America’s largest collection of fresco paintings, the RISE production team and cast have taken this familiar tale and molded the experience to bring audiences of all ages even closer to the characters that helped to shape our vision of the holidays.

The production will perform Dec. 8, 14 & 15 at 8 pm and on Dec. 9 & 16 at 2 pm. For tickets, call 401-441–5011 or visit www.ristage.org

Advance Tickets: $15 general, $12 students/seniors/veterans

Tickets at the door: $20 general, $15 students/seniors/veterans