It's A Wonderful Life

Set in mid-America from  the Twenties to the Forties the story traces George Bailey’s life; as a young man, he dreamed of travelling the world and seeking adventure, while his father hoped he would join the family loan business. However, after the sudden death of his father, George’s plans change, and he devotes himself to improving the lives of the Bedford Falls residents, helping them to get out of a life of poverty. He also marries his childhood sweetheart and starts a family.

The business faces significant challenges when Mr Potter, an unscrupulous banker, gets his hands on all the funds of the Bailey business. Believing his absence is the only solution, George contemplates drastic measures to end it all but unbeknown to him, he is being watched throughout his life by three guardian angels. As George prays for help one of these angels, Clarissa, who still needs to earn her wings, steps in to lead and help him find his way back to his family and friends.

The plot of "It's A Wonderful Life" shifts across locations and time, with actors portraying their characters at different ages. Danny Smith's excellent and clear concepts and minimalist staging made the setting and timeline easy to follow. The cast and stage crew effortlessly moved props and furniture, complemented by outstanding lighting and sound effects. The expertise of the production team contributed to a polished and highly successful performance.

Each member of the cast delivered a superb performance, expertly adopting their characterizations and accents—including several American ones—while portraying multiple roles. 

Jack Hewitt took on the challenging role of George Bailey, delivering an awesome performance with extensive dialogue and effectively expressing the character's complex emotions and depth. It was clear that Jack was fully immersed in his portrayal.

Jessica De Souza was perfect as Mary, George’s loving and very understanding wife who has a calming effect on him. Dianne Hancock was first class as Aunt Dilly who take care of the everyday running of the Bailey business. She gives $8,000 to Mr Potter by mistake instead of depositing it at the bank, and Mr Potter then secretly keeps the money causing the Bailey business to go into liquidation. Simon Hanna’s performance as the despicable Mr Potter was perfect.

To advance the storyline, multiple characters are brought to life by four talented performers, each seamlessly transitioning between roles through quick changes of hats, coats, and mannerisms. Jack Merrit-Webster played Joseph Angel, Harry Bailey, Bert, Mr Gower and other characters. Ellie Jones appeared as Gloria Angel, Sam Wainwright, Martini and others. Abi Standish delivered an excellent performance as the angel Clarissa, who keeps a watchful eye on George, while also taking on additional roles such as the flirtatious Violet. Simon Naylor effectively embodied Ernie, Welch and various other characters.

At the end, George wishes he was never born. Clarissa shows him a world without him, then convinces him of his positive impact. Returning to the present, his problems are resolved and Clarissa earns her wings—a fitting conclusion to the story.

Achieving a successful production requires dedication and many hours of rehearsals, and the applause and cheers at the end of the performance said it all.

Thank you for the invitation, your hospitality and a very enjoyable evening.

Sue Cox   Drama Rep

NODA N.E.   Region 14

 

 

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