“This Wonderful Life” by Steve Murray (conceived by Mark Setlock, adapted from the screenplay It’s a Wonderful Life by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Frank Capra, and Jo Swerling) combines storytelling and chameleon-like transformations into the familiar movie characters. Director Tony Caselli and star, John Lepard, have done it again… perhaps with even more depth and heart added by the years.
John Lepard is a wonder, singlehandedly bringing the story to life as both a warm and witty fourth-wall-breaking narrator, and in subtle, spot-on embodiments of the wide range of characters. Williamston Theatre’s up-close-and-personal stage was set with a simple but period-evocative staircase and phone table, with a versatile rolling desk, that became all corners of Bedford Falls. Dramatic lighting filled in the details, with the celestial characters as twinkling heavenly bodies, and the potentially suicidal river rippling at George Bailey’s feet. (Scenic Design by Bartley H. Bauer; Lighting Design by Dustin D. Miller; Sound Design by Quintessa Gallinat; Props Design by Michelle Raymond)
The remarkable thing about this show is that it seems so effortless. It feels like a collaboration with the audience. We know this story, and it’s a joy to share it with this remarkable actor. Bring the family and catch it before it closes.
Note that masks, and proof of vaccination or proof of a negative Covid test are required of all audience members. See details at https://www.williamstontheatre.org/covid-safety-precautions
This Wonderful Life continues through Dec 19, 2021
Thursday at 8pm
Friday at 8pm
Saturday at 3pm & 8pm
Sunday at 2pm
https://www.williamstontheatre.org