Theatre Review - IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE - PEOPLE'S THEATRE, NEWCASTLE

 

Company photo Paul Hood

Most of us are aware of the well-loved James Stewart / Frank Capra film. This adaption for stage, written by Mary Elliott Nelson, loses nothing of its joy and, in my opinion, adds to the experience. The story starts as we hear the well-wishes of the many people praying for George Bailey. George is in crisis, and contemplating the stark realisation that ‘financially’ he’s worth more dead than alive. With so many people asking for help on his behalf, how could Heaven not seek to help him? Angel-in-training Clarence is dispatched to assist and looks over the events that brought George to his crisis point. George is ultimately given a chance to look at the world without him in it – and we are all reminded that the good deeds we do in life, no matter how small, may mean a lot to someone else.

George (Sam Hinton) & Clarence (Tony Sehgal) photo Paul Hood

As we returned home from the theatre, with snow falling in the real world, it was as if the Directors had ordered it. I’m not convinced they didn’t orchestrate the weather as Directors Anna Dobson and Sam Burrell had certainly thought of everything else. Even as we found our seats, the atmosphere was glowing as we listened to live Christmas classics – on piano (Tracey Lucas), saxophone/flute (Rye Mattick) and with singing by Moira Valentine. The Set, designed by Tim Swinton, was refined, yet simple, with in-set lighting providing a separation between the town and the celestial beings overseeing proceedings, while also neatly evoking a scene in a snow globe. Musical director Tracey Lucas added warmth with well-chosen harmonies to match the atmosphere on stage. Scene changes were slick and expertly executed, and Movement Director Maya Torres had crafted fluid and effortless action.

Musicians photo Paul Hood

The whole cast were sensational! However, I must single out a few as outstanding: Sam Hinton (George Bailey) took us on a journey of George’s highs and lows with Steve Robertson, as his Uncle Billy, adding joy as he helps and hinders George. Sara Jo Harrison (Mary) added glamour and elegance to the story while Tony Sehgal, as Clarence, was the perfect mix of quirky and wonderful needed to help save the day.

A resounding triumph for all those involved in this production.

You need to see this feel-good play. You need to cry as a happy ending unfolds in front of you. You need to see It’s a Wonderful Life. After all, it’s a wonderful play.

It’s A Wonderful Life is showing at the People’s Theatre until Saturday 23^rd November.