“Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings”, the iconic line from It’s A Wonderful Life is now being heard nightly at The Arts Club Theatre’s Granville Island Stage as the Holiday favourite returns to the stage until December 26th.
Frank Capra’s legendary film comes to life in a simple and imaginative staging that pays homage to the classic movie while keeping it fresh. While the stripped down set keeps the focus on the story and cast, selected use of film clips in the background help to flesh out the iconic moments without resorting to grand sets and action.
The fine cast is lead by the charismatic Bob Frazer, as George Bailey, who provides the grounding and emotion of the story. His supportive wife, Mary, played by Jennifer Lines, shares the heart of the story as well as his life along with 4 children. The supporting characters include the antagonist Mr Potter, curmudgeonly acted by Alec Willows and various friends and family filling out the townsfolk of Bedford Falls. Watching over all of them is Vancouver theatre legend Bernard Cuffling as Clarence the Angel. Through Clarence the audience is given the feeling of interaction as we watch along with him and reach into George’s Wonderful life through the Angel’s actions.
Experience It’s a Wonderful Life at The Arts Club Theatre, Granville Island Stage until December 26th. A great Holiday outing for the whole family.