(WNY News Now) – This holiday season, the Robert H. Jackson Center will become a 1940s Christmas haven as producer Mike Thornton presents “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” for three unforgettable nights: December 20, 21, and 22, 2024.
JAMESTOWN, NY – This holiday season, acclaimed producer and performer Mike Thornton is set to transform the Robert H. Jackson Center’s Cappa Theatre into a magical 1940s Christmas wonderland. For three nights only – December 20, 21, and 22, 2024 – audiences will be transported back in time with a unique production of “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.”
A New York City Experience in the Heart of Jamestown
Thornton, known for his work with the Capitol Steps and as a jazz vocalist, promises a “New York City level production” featuring Broadway and Off-Broadway caliber actors. This professional theatrical experience will bring the beloved story of George Bailey to life in a fresh, engaging format that’s perfect for the whole family.
More Than Just a Show
- Immersive 1940s Atmosphere: The Cappa Theatre will be decked out in full holiday splendor, recreating the ambiance of a 1940s radio studio.
- Live Sound Effects: Watch in wonder as actors create all the sound effects live on stage, just like in the golden age of radio.
- Musical Bonus: In addition to the heartwarming story, audiences will be treated to musical numbers performed by the talented cast.
- Visit from Santa: Saint Nick himself will make an appearance, adding to the holiday magic.
A Passion Project for Downtown Revitalization
Recently relocated to the Jamestown area, Mike Thornton is excited to inject new energy into the local cultural scene. This production is more than just a show—it’s his first project aimed at doing his part to revitalize downtown Jamestown through the arts.
“I see this as the first step towards creating a more vibrant arts scene, specifically live theater, in our community,” Thornton explains. “By bringing professional-level productions to Jamestown, we can attract visitors, engage local families, and contribute to the economic and cultural revitalization of our downtown area.”
A Community Event with Purpose
Mike Thornton’s vision extends beyond entertainment. This production aims to:
- Bring Jamestown families together for a shared holiday experience
- Kick-start a renaissance in local live theater
- Contribute to downtown regeneration efforts
- Create holiday magic accessible to all
“This classic holiday show is a natural reason for families in Jamestown and surrounding areas to come downtown and experience the magic of professional theatre,” says Thornton. “It’s the beginning of what I hope will be a thriving arts scene that will help breathe new life into our beautiful downtown.”
With a career spanning Kennedy Center, Off-Broadway, television, and 24 years with the Capitol Steps, Mike Thornton brings a wealth of experience to this production. His recent move to Jamestown has ignited a passion for invigorating the local arts scene. Thornton’s commitment to community-driven arts initiatives makes this more than just a show – it’s the first step in a larger vision for Jamestown’s cultural renaissance.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a slice of Broadway in Jamestown, create lasting holiday memories with your loved ones, and be part of the exciting revitalization of downtown Jamestown!
Event Details
- Location: Robert H. Jackson Center’s Cappa Theatre, Jamestown, NY
- Dates and times:
- December 20, 7 p.m.
- 21, 2 and 7 p.m.
- and 22, 2 p.m.
- Location: Robert H. Jackson Center’s Cappa Theatre, Jamestown, NY
About the Producer
Originally from Hartford, Connecticut, Mike Thornton attended Hartt School, University of Hartford, where he studied voice and theater and had the opportunity to study with the great Jackie McLean. At the age of 19, he sang with Uptown Sound – a “Manhattan Transfer” style group featuring intricate harmonies and sophisticated arrangements by the former Glenn Miller Band arranger, Ed Cerveney.
While in Connecticut, Mike served on the faculty of The University of Hartford as a voice and theatre instructor. He appeared as a vocalist with the well-known fusion band, Topazz, was guest soloist with Hartford Symphony, and sang with jazz groups throughout the New England area.
Moving to New York City, Mike studied acting at the Meisner-Based “Acting Studio” and with the legendary teacher and founder of American Place Theatre, Wynn Handman. As a union actor in NYC (Screen Actors Guild / Actors Equity Association), he appeared in Off-Broadway shows including “Zoo Story,” “Madwoman of Chaillot,” the American Premiere of “Blood Brothers” and performed regionally and with national tours. On television, Mike appeared on “Law and Order,” “Homicide: Life on The Street,” and many video presentations.
Branching out to his beloved Berkshires, Mike and his partner created a performance hub in North Adams, MA, revamping the 1939 Art-Deco Mohawk Theatre and bringing in headliners such as Allison Kraus, Johnny Cash, Arlo Guthrie and Don McLean. As momentum grew, Mike began a professional theatre company at the classic theatre, casting shows with NYC talent – presenting musicals and plays such as “The Pirates of Penzance,” “Nunsense,” “Mousetrap,” and “Godspell.”
Thornton then wrote and starred in an original live-audience radio show: “The 1990’s Radio Hour – and a Half,” featuring a big band, NYC actors and writers and foley artists. The show was taped live and broadcast around the northeast U.S. by WAMC and its affiliates, and was likened to a combination of Garrison Keillor and David Letterman’s “Tonight Show.”
Mike has been the Artistic Director of four professional theatres: The Mohawk Theatre, Berkshires, MA; Millbrook Playhouse, Mill Hall, PA; Impala Theatre Company, Washington, DC; and for “Swing Time: The Musical,” National U.S. Navy Memorial, Washington, DC.
Moving to Washington in 1995, Mike was featured as an actor in the country’s longest-running hit “Shear Madness” at The Kennedy Center for two years. He then became a lead actor with the nationally acclaimed Capitol Steps satire group, travelling to all 50 states and performing in nearly every city and hundreds of towns around the U.S. – including Chautauqua Institution’s 4,000-seat Amphitheatre. Mike was a lead performer with the ‘Steps for 24 years, until their disbanding in 2021.
Taking the group to another level, Thornton then used his producing skills to become one of the ‘Steps presenters. Forming Mike Thornton Agency, LLC, Mike presented the Capitol Steps in cities including San Francisco, San Diego, Portland, Seattle, in both Dakotas, North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, St. Louis, Minnesota, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, and many Massachusetts locations, including Sanders Theatre at Harvard.
Leave a Reply