It’s a Wonderful Life Auditions

An affable everyman, idealist, and dreamer. George comes to understand that his father’s enduring vision—and his own choices—have always served the good of others.

Elegant, intelligent, and resourceful. Mary has loved George since childhood and brings wisdom, humility, and steadfast support to their life together.

George and Mary’s eldest son.

George and Mary’s eldest daughter.

George and Mary’s youngest daughter. Bright and simple-hearted, Zuzu shares a special bond with her father.

George and Mary’s youngest child. This role may be cast as Zuzu’s twin if needed.

The loving wife of Pa Bailey and mother of George and Harry. She is joyful, encouraging, and unfailingly supportive of her family.

George’s father, Peter, is an idealist who is stubborn only for other people’s rights. His example shapes George’s life.

Pa Bailey’s younger brother. Well-meaning, good-humored, and forgetful, Uncle Billy becomes an important inspiration to George.

The efficient and nosy telephone operator at the Bailey Building & Loan. She is Eustace’s older sister.

A timid, dutiful clerk at the Bailey Building & Loan and Tilly’s younger brother.

George’s joyful younger brother, who grows from an admiring child into a decorated World War II Navy pilot.

A wise and gentle archangel who oversees heaven’s guardian angels. The role may be played by a woman if needed.

An experienced angel who assists Gabriel and is frequently tested by Clarence’s ingenuous nature. The role may be played by a woman as Anna.

George’s dutiful and loyal childhood friend, later a police officer and decorated World War II infantryman.

A loyal childhood friend with a playful personality who enjoys talking with friends and customers.

George’s colorful and successful childhood friend. Although business often takes him away, Sam remains loyal and ready to help.

Mary’s older brother and one of George’s childhood friends, who becomes a respected Army leader during World War II.

The local pharmacist and soda-shop owner. Grief places him at a terrible turning point where young George’s compassion changes the course of a life.

A warm, welcoming Italian bar-and-restaurant owner and close friend of George.

A childhood friend of George and Mary who presents herself as older and more worldly, yet values George’s steady friendship.

A longtime friend and employee of the Bailey family. Sassy, outspoken, and deeply affectionate toward the family she serves.

Mary and Marty’s well-meaning mother, who wants the best for her daughter and eventually comes to love George as a son.

Harry Bailey’s wife, a poised young woman close to his age.

Sam Wainwright’s wife. Accustomed to a lavish lifestyle, she is nevertheless genuinely friendly with Mary.

A stone-faced, silent man who pushes Mr. Potter in his wheelchair.

The elderly, fussy high-school principal.

A classmate of Mary’s who is infatuated with her and later works for Mr. Potter as a rent collector.

A rowdy classmate of Mary’s who is oddly aware of how the school’s new swimming pool works.

The proprietor of the local mercantile emporium.

An old codger whose primary entertainment is watching passersby from his house.

The Bailey family doctor and friend, and chairman of the Building & Loan board.

Up to twelve substantial citizens of Bedford Falls, including a lawyer, real-estate salesman, and other local leaders.

A short-tempered man who initially cares mostly about himself but later develops a deep respect for George.

A man at the bank run who is concerned only about getting his money.

A concerned man at the bank run.

A man who sold shirts to Mr. Potter.

A worried woman whose husband has been out of work since the tool and machinery works closed.

A shy mother who asks for only what she needs during the bank run.

Mr. Martini’s wife and the mother of their six children, who range from ages 2 to 12.

The six children of Mr. and Mrs. Martini. More than six children may be cast, but no fewer than six.

Military officers appearing in the story’s wartime scenes.

The bank examiner.

A friendly bank clerk at Bedford Falls Bank.

A bitter, angry newcomer to Bedford Falls who works at Sam Wainwright’s factory. His wife is Zuzu’s teacher.

A typical friendly bartender and one of the many people George has helped over the years.

A homeowner annoyed when George smashes his car into their tree.

An annoyed late-night delivery driver.

A tired tollkeeper and bridge guard.

A tough character at Nick’s bar.

The police chief in Bedford Falls and Pottersville.

One or more eager reporters and photographers ready to cover George’s arrest.

A supporting citizen role listed in the casting notice.

George Bailey as a boy.

Harry Bailey as a boy.

A small, quiet girl who already cares deeply for George.

Similar in appearance to Mary but determined to present herself as much older—think “9 going on 19.”

Young Sam, Young Marty, Young Ernie, Young Bert, and other boys in George’s childhood circle.

Couples at Mary’s school dance who should appear to be high-school age.

Six to twelve prominent citizens, including Mr. Potter and Dr. Campbell.

Additional concerned citizens of Bedford Falls—the more the merrier.

Children doing what they can to support the wartime effort.

Citizens of Pottersville who reflect the town’s harsh and unfriendly character.

A handful of crooked cops under Potter’s influence. These roles are optional and may be covered by Bert.

A general ensemble of Bedford Falls residents who may appear throughout the production.