Speaking of classic films that are perfect for Christmas, the 1946 film It’s a Wonderful Life, which is directed by Frank Capra, is definitely one of them. And Anthony E. Palermo has brought the film to the stage, not as a play, but boldly presented it as a radio play. Directed by Brittany Rex, in this production, the charm that the film retains is presented in almost every way.
It shows basically the same plot as the film. On Christmas Eve, George Bailey stands on the edge of a bridge and attempts to jump off it. Just then, the prayers of his family and friends arrive in heaven, and his guardian angel Clarence arrives on earth to stop him from taking his own life. If George can change his mind and continue to live, Clarence will be able to get the wings that he has been dreaming of. Before arriving on Earth, Clarence learns about George’s life. He has been a good-hearted person since he was a child and would even sacrifice himself for the sake of helping others.
While this production presents most of the details from the film, it doesn’t simply re-enact the story, presenting instead as a radio drama. The show is set in a live broadcasting studio, with the actors giving live recorded performances of It’s A Wonderful Life as the stars who have been invited to record this broadcast. The director, Brittany Rex, is also here as the manager. While setting up various ambient sound effects for the radio play live, she also plays the characters in the play. Because it is a live radio recording, when it comes to the climax of the play or an intense conflict, a commercial will suddenly be inserted, and the cast stops their performance of the characters in It’s a Wonderful Life, instead, they all come to the microphones and sing the jingles together to the tune of Christmas songs.
Old film posters and stills on the walls, carpets on the floor, a couple of stand-up mics, a few chairs for the actors to sit on when they are not recording, tables with some miscellaneous items, coat racks, and water for the actors... it is as if a corner of a recording studio has been built on the stage. Not only that, but the setting is full of Christmas cheer. There is a beautifully decorated Christmas tree in the corner of the room, coloured lights on the walls, and even the stand-up mics and music stands have a Christmas hat and bows hanging on them. Most of the time, the stage is lit like the light of a typical room. While the actors are performing, music that sounds like film interludes is played from time to time, naturally setting the mood and atmosphere.
There are only seven actors in the show (Jack Cavendish, Rachel Marquez, Dylan Levien, Richard Williams, Adam Paul Brown, Finton McCluskey and Brittany Rex) and they all play multiple roles. As they put on different hats and accessories, along with their vocal changes, they become a different person. Although it is a radio play, they do not stick to performing with just their voices but perform the whole scenario without physical objects. The performances of Cavendish and Marquez stand out in particular. Cavendish’s George Bailey is not only passionate and impulsive, but also very sensitive. Even though he doesn’t explicitly say that he is still in love with Mary, the look in his eyes says it all. Marquez’s Mary is elegant, calm and tolerant. Even without the change of accessories, her mannerisms, movements, and voice tell the audience clearly which character she is playing.
If there’s one thing that’s a slight shortcoming, it’s that some of the subtle scenes that characterise the film are difficult to show in a radio drama. For example, the scene where George and Mary use a shabby house as a luxury hotel for their honeymoon can only be lightly touched upon here. However, even with this minor shortcoming, the production is still excellent in its overall presentation. It’s easy to be transported to this classic story by watching their performances, and to laugh along with the commercial songs. This production does indeed bring a very happy Christmas atmosphere, and just like its name suggests, it does give one the feeling that life is wonderful while watching this show.
★★★★☆ (4*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
