“It’s a Wonderful Life” is a timeless holiday classic that continues to remind us how truly wonderful life can be. Even though it’s a low-budget production, the Players Theatre Company’s stage version of this popular Christmas tale is good enough to entertain and leave those who see it feeling content.
The play presents the story of George Bailey, a man who has become frustrated over the years by his failure to accomplish his dreams. On Christmas Eve, he is saved by his guardian angel as he was about to end his life. Bailey receives the opportunity to see what he has done all his life and he has affected those around him. Ultimately, he realizes how important he is and how truly wonderful his life can be.
The production, adapted for the stage by James W. Rodgers and directed by Becky Teague, satisfactorily portrays the most significant parts of Frank Capra’s 1946 film. The play may lack in scenery, lighting and sound effects, but the actors shine on the stage and demonstrate the emotion of the characters they represent. The cast overall makes this a solid presentation.
The play is musicalized by the delightful voices of four carolers who sing Christmas classics to entertain the audience while the stage is prepared for upcoming scenes.
While the scenery is simple and the costumes are modest, the director captures the essential concept of the classic Christmas tale in this two-hour-long play. The cast, filled with many children as well as adults, does an outstanding job and is what makes this play worth seeing.
For those who love Christmas classics and are not selective for extraordinary productions, the Players Theatre Company’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” is a heartwarming play that does its job at reminding us that “no man is a failure who has friends.”
Tickets are $10 to $20, and showings will be available through Dec. 21 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. at the Owen Theater.
For more information, visit owentheater.com.
