“Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.”
Almost every one is familiar with this line from the classic Christmas film It’s A Wonderful Life. Since its release in 1946, the film has become a part of many people’s holiday traditions.
This year, The Repertory Theater of St. Louis is getting in on the act and greeting the start of the holiday season with its mainstage production of “This Wonderful Life,” directed by Martha Banta.
“This Wonderful Life” is the unique retelling of the Frank Capra-directed classic film. Conceived by Mark Setlock and written by Steve Murray, the script brings vibrant life to the story of Bedford Falls and the loveable George Bailey, played by James Stewart in the film.
The story is about a man at the end of his rope who is thinking of taking his own life when a guardian angel is sent to show him the importance of his life and its meaning to his family and friends. The play’s most charming element is that one man takes on all of the film’s characters, from George Bailey and his daughter Zuzu to the villainous Mr. Potter.
At first, the idea of one man taking on every character sounds like a cheap gimmick. Can the concept work without tainting the story people have come to know and love?
But actor Setlock does an amazing job at retelling the tale in a witty and heartwarming way. His friendly joking with the audience makes it feel as if a friend is performing the classic story in front of your fireplace instead of on a big stage. It is truly a gift to see this talented actor who conceived the idea of this show reprise his role.
He begins the show by declaring It’s a Wonderful Life as his favorite movie and informs the audience that he will be reenacting the whole thing by himself. The seemingly impossible feat is done with an energizing take on the old classic.
His diverse portrayal of human experience and emotion is captivating. Each character has a specific voice, gesture, posture or catch phrase that easily identifies them. He fills the audience with hate when he becomes the scheming Mr. Potter and makes them laugh and cry when he plays George Bailey with as much endearing charm as Jimmy Stewart himself.
The play’s biggest triumph, however, is within Setlock’s narration and description of the scenes as he acts as a running commentary about the movie.
He pokes fun at old Hollywood’s prudish modesty and cheesy special effects, as well as the use of a few “cherished ethnic stereotypes.” The casual manner of his jokes and commentary keep the show lighthearted and fun.
“This Wonderful Life” is a refreshing and delightful holiday treat. Bring your family and friends to this show that everyone will enjoy.
“This Wonderful Life” will be showing until Dec. 28 on the Browning Mainstage of the Loretto-Hilton Center for the Performing Arts.
To purchase tickets, stop by The Rep Box Office inside the Loretto-Hilton Center or call (314) 968-4925. For more information, visit The Rep’s website at www.repstl.org.
This is one holiday show that is not to be missed for any fan of theater or of the original film.
