4.34°C Paul T. Davies reviews It’s a Wonderful Life, brought to life by the Colchester Theatre Group at the Headgate Theatre.
Proving that there is vibrant theatrical life after the Colchester Fringe Festival, the Headgate Theatre almost immediately welcomes sell-out audiences to Colchester Theatre Group’s production of the classic It’s A Wonderful Life.
It’s hard to imagine anyone who doesn’t know the plot of Capra’s beloved 1946 Christmas film, in which George Bailey, a man who has spent his life putting other people first, contemplates suicide on Christmas Eve as he faces bankruptcy. The prayers of his friends reach the angels, who send Clarence Oddbody – here, as Clarissa Oddbody – to intervene and show George what life without him would be like. It’s sentimental and heartwarming, making for an early festive treat.
It’s a large cast, and on the first night, there were times when the stage was so cluttered that the cast and crew had to struggle to get on. But at its core is a centred, realistic, and convincing performance by James Potter as George, his kindness really shining through. Sara Green is equally wonderful as the angel Clarissa, who has been waiting over 200 years to earn her wings and will get them if she saves George. The real magic happens when the two of them meet in the second half, their experience really showing through.
As the evil local capitalist Mr. Potter, Joseph Sales is totally convincing (he would get booed in a panto!); Donna Potter is wonderful as Aunt Dilly. Leanne Howard, Sarah Ellern Young, and Travis Broxburgh shine in supporting yet vital roles. Set in three different time zones, a company of young actors is totally charming as childhood versions of the adult characters.
With quick changes and sweeping scenes, the adaptation does betray its film origins, but the space is used well, and once some first-night nerves settle down, the pace will pick up. Wesley Lang’s excellent lighting design provides effective wintry cold, and the revelation of the wings is a delight.
Although this is a winter’s tale, the production conveys nothing but warmth and is the kind of escapism we could all do with these days!
It’s A Wonderful Life runs until Saturday 9 November. Tickets are available here.
