MONMOUTH — In its four decades, this is the first time Theater at Monmouth will produce a show for the holidays. The 43rd season concludes with award-winning playwright Steve Murray’s adaptation of Frank Capra’s, “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Brimming with hope and humor, “This Wonderful Life” reminds us of the power of perspective, friendship and family from Nov. 29 through Dec. 9.
“This Wonderful Life” features Mike Anthony as narrator and all the inhabitants of Bedford Falls and beyond; directed by producing artistic director Dawn McAndrews with set and lights by Jim Alexander and sound design by Rew Tippen.
Anthony, a Theater at Monmouth favorite, unleashes his comedic talents for this 90-minute adventure as he recreates more than two-dozen iconic characters from the beloved film. Anthony embodies Clarence the Angel, Mary, Old Man Potter, and the rest of Bedford Falls’ finest citizens, while also serving as narrator, offering amusing commentary on George Bailey’s journey to discover that the actions of one person really can make a difference in the world.
This fast-paced and witty adaptation celebrates the warmth of the season and the belief that hard work, fair play and love of one’s family and community is truly its own “wonderful” reward.
“It’s a Wonderful Life,” produced and directed by Frank Capra in 1946, is based on the short story “The Greatest Gift” written by Philip Van Doren Stern in 1939 and published in 1945.
The film stars James Stewart as George Bailey, a man who has given up his dreams in order to help others, and whose imminent suicide on Christmas Eve brings about the intervention of his guardian angel, Clarence. Clarence shows George all the lives he has touched and how different life in his community would be had he never been born. The film has come to be regarded as a classic around the world. Nominated for five Academy Awards it has since been recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the 100 Best Films Ever Made; placing No. 1 on AFI’s list of the most inspirational American films of all time.
Evening performances are Nov. 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 1, 6, 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 2 and 9 at 7 p.m. Matinee performances will be Dec. 1, 2, 8 and 9 at 1 p.m. Two special student and senior matinees will be held on Dec. 5 and 6 at 10 a.m.
Ticket prices range from $20 to $28.
For calendar and reservations, call the TAM Box Office at 933-9999 or visit www.theateratmonmouth.org.
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