At the Liberty:"You Had to Be There"

DAYTON - "You Had to Be There" is a documentary about the influence on North American comedy from the 1972 Toronto production of "Godspell." The cast of then-unknown performers forged lifelong bonds and became comedic icons. Through interviews, archival audio, and animated segments, the film captured the impact of that joyful show.

Rotten Tomatoes critics praise its warmth, humor, and historical significance, making it a worthwhile watch for theater and comedy fans. Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Gilda Radner, Victor Garber, Paul Shaffer, and other stars got their start in a 1972 Toronto production of the musical Godspell. Featuring interviews with the surviving cast members. The film recounts that pivotal moment in comedy history, in hilarious, moving, and inspiring detail. Rated: NR (Documentary Film) Runtime is 98 minutes.

Next up is the Western "Angel and the Badman" on October 9 to 13. When feared outlaw Quirt Evans staggers onto a ranch with a bullet in his back, he expects a quick death, not mercy. But the rancher's daughter offers him a chance at something he's never had: a life beyond violence. However, the past is not forgiving.

With a marshal closing in and an outlaw gang ready to burn the ranch to the ground, Quirt must decide what kind of man he'll be when the world demands blood. The cast includes Tommy Lee Jones, Zachary Levi, and Neal McDonough. It is rated PG-13 for violence, bloody images, suggestive material, and language. The runtime is 105 minutes.

Coming up is the 2026 Fall Production "The Wizard of Oz" from November 13 to December 5. This year's show is directed by Brenda Henderson and Assistant Director Stephanie Snyder. Over 60 local cast and crew members are participating in the production. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October and will be available at libertytheater.org or at the Box Office on Tuesday and Friday, 2- 5 p.m.

Upcoming Movies: "You Had to Be There" on Oct. 2-6, "Angel and the Badman" (Western) on Oct. 9-13, "Heart of the Beast" on Oct. 16-20, and "Sense & Sensibility" TBD. The schedule is subject to change.