Again this year, The Beloit International Film Festival will celebrate another form of media on its opening night when it goes on the radio.

The Stage One Radio Players will present a live radio adaptation of the 1950 film classic “Sunset Boulevard.” This film noir dark comedy is the portrait of a forgotten silent film star who lives in exile in her grotesque L.A. mansion dreaming of a comeback. A struggling screenwriter half her age stumbles onto the scene to become her “kept” boyfriend. Bitter, funny, and fascinating, the original film is considered the best drama ever made about the movies.

The radio production, directed by Pat Thom, will be presented free at La Casa Grande at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 21, and includes live music and sound effects. It is presented By Beloit Regional Hospice and 1230 AM WCLO. The performance will be simulcast on WCLO radio.

“And while it is not exactly ‘dinner radio theater,’ if you get there a little early there is a good chance you can enjoy a burrito and a margarita during the show,” says BIFF Executive Director Greg Gerard.

For many years the annual BIFF opening night radio play was directed by Jim Stewart. A force in the Stateline area theater community, he was known for his unique approach to direction and his ability to draw amazing performances from his cast members. “Jim died suddenly last year on May 8 and we will dedicate this year’s production to his memory,” notes Greg Gerard. “Jim gave us all an incredible amount of his time, his talent and his passion for the stage.”

Tickets and more information on all BIFF films and special events can be found at the BIFF website at beloitfilmfest.org.

The Beloit International Film Festival this year marks its 15th season as the region’s major international cultural event. BIFF is sponsored by the Hendricks Family Foundation and Visit Beloit in association with Beloit College. Support for the Festival comes from area businesses and civic organizations, and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts. Critical individual support for BIFF is provided through gifts and membership in the BIFF Founders and the Film Society of Beloit.