Review - It's a Wonderful Life - People's Theatre

It's a Wonderful Life   

People's Theatre

19th Nov 2024

If I could only watch one Christmas film for the rest of my life, It's a Wonderful Life would be my choice. It is the highlight of my Christmas viewing every year, so it was with some delight and a little trepidation that I took my seat at the People's Theatre for a stage adaptation.  There is always an element of risk when our treasures are entrusted to someone else...Was I about to see George Bailey in all his glory on stage, or was I about to be disappointed by something that did not quite live up to expectation? 

Of course I needn't have worried, our treasures are always in safe hands at the People's Theatre. They took the story of George Bailey and Bedford Falls and lovingly recreated on stage. 

The attention to detail in everything from the set to the costumes, the use of lighting and music, is what sets the People's Theatre productions apart, and this was no exception. From the charming, understated set to the beautifully choreographed scene changes this production was a delight to watch, and perfectly captured the essence of the original film. 

Sam Hinton is utterly believable as George Bailey, supported by Sara Jo Harrison as the calm and practical Mary, while Tony Sehgal is charming  as the quirky Clarence - the guardian angel desperate to earn his wings. 

It would have been easy to simply produce an impression of the original film with impersonations of the iconic characters, but this is not what the People's team do - their production has all the quality and charm of the original, but each cast member makes the characters their own, from George and Clarence right through to Violet and Bert and Ernie. 

There were some first night nerves on show, and an errant prop or two but none of that detracted from the performance, and in fact, as usual, they were dealt with calmly and professionally. And I am sure the nerves will settle as the run progresses. 

It's a Wonderful Life is a wonderful start to the festive season - a heartwarming and beautiful tale, beautifully presented. If this doesn't put you in the Christmas spirit then I fear nothing will - it should be required viewing for everyone!

It plays until Saturday 23rd November and I recommend booking your ticket in advance at www.peoplestheatre.co.uk because you really don't want to miss it!

*photography by Paul Hood

Denise Sparrowhawk