Student at East Bergholt High School
The play is set in the fictional town of Bedford Falls just after World War II. It sees George Bailey preparing for his suicide on Bedford Falls' bridge, when, personal angel ‘Ace' shows. He then tells his angel how he dreams of escape, and how every time he tries to escape he is grabbed back in to everyday Bedford Falls life. This is shown by his ‘unsung hero' attitude in the Bedford Falls community, until he wishes he was never born. He then sees his true place and impact on Bedford Falls with and without George Bailey.
The set was different to the film; the set was simple, a monochrome sign of Bedford falls and a balcony. Although the set was minimal, I didn't think the plot needed an intricate set.
Jo Servi as angel ‘Ace' provided wit and humour, with antics to keep the piece from becoming too serious. ‘Ace' was in almost every scene, somewhere, wearing a torn and dirty tuxedo with beaten brown boots. I felt this added a certain mystique to Georges very own angel.
Mr Potter was depicted excellently (Paul Leonard), a moody, scrooge of a man, barking orders from his wheelchair with the intimidating presence of his tall, silent assistant, adding to this Mr Potter's vocal performances and facial expressions were also very strong.
I felt as it was important to understand the sacrifices that honest lead character George Bailey had made during his life. The plot was depicted concisely and to the point.
Compared to ‘true-bred' musicals some songs were not as strong, which was expected as this was a converted film-to-musical, although some numbers were extremely impressive, group songs especially.
Overall, an excellent take on the film, accent, song and drama all obtained, a superb evening, suitable for all audiences.