Thanksgiving is over, which means It’s time to get into the Christmas spirit full-throttle. And nothing says “Christmas” like the 1946 Frank Capra classic It’s a Wonderful Life. But this Chicago production isn’t like any play you’ve seen before, because it’s not a play — it’s a radio broadcast.

This December, Stage 773 is transformed into a 1940s radio studio, complete with a live pianist and vocalists, a sound effect station full of click-clacky knick-knacks, and Andrews Sisters-type jingles (charmingly, for local businesses) sung live on set in between acts. With a cast of seven impeccably dressed actors, live music, and a manned sound effect booth, the town of Bedford Falls is brought to life through a kaleidoscope of sounds and voices.

Every actor voices multiple characters, giving each a distinct sound and tone. Whether child or adult, in love or in rage, at peace or in disbelief, at least twenty characters are conveyed and given color by a mere eight people. True to the spirit of original radio broadcasts, quality over quantity is the name of the game. Radio is the only medium (along with the modern equivalent of podcasting) that removes the visual aspect and allows the curmudgeony Mr. Potter and the soft-spoken Clarence the angel to be voiced by the same person.

But with this production, we get to see it as well as hear it. Which is really cool.

And with the warm lights, familiar music, milk and cookies served by the cast after the show, and cozy vibe in the theater, American Blues Ensemble’s It’s a Wonderful Life is a Christmas night out that feels like a Christmas night in.

It’s a Wonderful Life is playing through January 5 at Stage 773. Tickets can be ordered here.