Following a sell-out run at Liverpool’s Royal Court, Old Fruit Jar Productions have brought back their hit adaptation of It’s a Wonderful Life, with a few new faces joining the cast to take us to Bedford Falls for a splash of nostalgia. 

Based on Frank Capra’s 1946 movie from the golden age of Hollywood, this adaptation, penned by Mary Elliott Nelson and directed by Alex King, brings the right balance of sentiment and whimsy that the world needs now more than ever. 

Ahead of its time, It’s a Wonderful Life follows George Bailey (Sean Radford) and the internal struggles he has faced in life by merely being the better man. Through financial troubles, power struggles and personal problems, George reaches breaking point on Christmas Eve and it’s down to his guardian angel, Clarence (Jordan Barkley), to show George just how the world would be without him in it. 

Upon entry to the theatre, the audience is greeted by the characters welcoming them in like old friends, adding a warm, personal touch often lacking in theatre. Radford is already in place showing his character’s turmoil while the audience finds their seats and his captivating performance effortlessly shows the complexities of George.  

Florence King returns to the production as Mary Bailey and adds heart throughout, showing an effortless growth in both age and character, giving a standout performance (aided by the supporting cast) during the musical numbers – everything you want from a show at Christmastime. 

The cast bring the piece to life, which during Act 1 is a blessing as there’s not much more that could be done to lift the material. Act 2, however is where the piece cements itself in your memory as a classic that could and should be revived annually. Taona Matope has a magnetic energy in his roles that have the audience ho-ho-howling throughout, while, Rachel McGrath’s vocals ground the piece adding emotional layers.

Christopher McCourt’s set design is simple but necessary given the size of the studio stage but never feels crowded given the large cast. Personally, I don’t think it needs the additional set-piece to transport us to George’s office and home, the use of a simple prop would suffice to prevent any uneven transitions. The space worked best when the other sides of the stage transformed with a sign, or a change in lighting (Phil Dickinson). 

The original music, also by Florence King, with sound design also from Dickinson is mesmerising and will transport even the biggest Scrooge to the bygone era and leave you feeling warm, hopeful and uplifted – the harmonies from the female cast are exquisite and I would urge you to book a ticket purely for them alone. 

It’s no secret that Christmas shows can be expensive, but don’t be fooled by the low price point of this crowd favourite, you will not leave feeling anything short of well, wonderful. 

It’s a Wonderful Life plays at Liverpool’s Royal Court until Saturday 22nd November. Further information and booking details can be found here.

Tickets received in exchange for an honest review. #AD

Photography courtesy of the production.