Musical version adds new dimension to classic ‘A Wonderful Life’
Show runs through Dec. 18 at Steel River Playhouse
For many, watching the classic Frank Capra film “It’s a Wonderful Life,” is as much a Christmas tradition as decorating the tree or baking cookies and I wondered if adding music would affect the tone or impact of its message.
Steel River Playhouse’s production of “A Wonderful Life, the Musical,” answered that question for me. Thanks to some talented actors who are also great vocalists, music just adds another layer to this poignant story.
The story of George Bailey, whose dreams are perpetually put on hold and sometimes shattered, is one that at first seems sad as George seems trapped in his tiny hometown of Bedford Falls. And yet, though George never seems to realize his dreams, he selflessly helps others realize theirs. Set in 1928 into the Great Depression, there are hard times for a lot of people. On Christmas Eve, when George finally has a problem he can’t resolve, he contemplates suicide. Watching over him is Clarence, a second-class angel who is charged with getting George to appreciate his life. If Clarence succeeds – he earns his wings.
These two characters are key to the success of the production and two gifted actors serve up two perfectly different performances.
Ryan Simme is a likeable and sincere George Bailey, evoking sympathy from the audience. His vocals are spot-on and are exceptional in “Precious Little” and his duets with Sharon Eyster who plays Mary, whom he eventually marries.
Eyster has an exquisite voice, that some may remember from her portrayals of the Mother Abbess in “Sound of Music” and Betty in “White Christmas” at SRP. In addition to the duets, “If I Had A Wish” and “Good Night,” her solo, “I Couldn’t Be With Anyone But You,” is one of the most memorable songs in the show.
With all of the somber themes, Matt Snyder offers a delightful, light-hearted counterpoint to brighten up the stage. Snyder has considerable comedic talent and his Clarence is quirky and lovable. His song and dance number “Wings” is definitely a high point of the show.
Any good story has to have a villain and Ron Quirk’s Mr. Potter is really good at being bad. His stage presence is imposing, making the scenes where George stands up to him even more impressive. He shows of his vocal skills in “First Class All the Way.”
Some SRP and area theater veterans add to the quality of this production: Scott Minor as George’s swaggering, longtime friend, Sam Wainwright ; Ben Fried as George’s notso-reliable Uncle Billy and Bryan Cassidy as Matthew, the angel in charge of Clarence.
Some talented young actors get to show what they can do.
Jason Scansaroli, who plays Harry, George’s younger brother, gets to show off some dancing in a Charleston contest
Three other young actors play the Baily children in the second act: Ben Minor as Tommy Bailey, Isabel Feldman as Beth Bailey and Charlotte Herninko as Zuzu Bailey. The three get to sing the most memorable song from the show “Christmas Gifts,” and they are joined by the entire cast when it is reprised for an upbeat and inspiring finale.
The cast also features Sebastian Antonio as Bert, Kelly Murray as Mrs. Hepner, Charles Delaney as Ernie, Kathleen Godwin as Milly Bailey, Tim Novak as Tom Bailey, Sarah Marie Paul as Violet Bick, and Amanda Wetzel, Alena Feldman, Beverly Albertus, Elissa Drummond, Alena Feldman, Ella Hagelauer, Trystian Hernandez, Max McCullagh, and Hailey Richmond.
“A Wonderful Life, the Musical,” is directed by Leena Devlin, managing artistic director at Steel River Playhouse.
“A Wonderful Life, The Musical” runs through Dec. 18 at Steel River Playhouse, 245 E. High St., Pottstown. Tickets can be ordered online at www.steelriver.org or by calling the Box Office at 610-970-1199.
Online ticketing allows audience members to select their seat, so purchase early for your best seating options. Groups of ten or more are eligible for a discount.
About Steel River Playhouse
Steel River Playhouse is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable education and performance facility that seeks to strengthen community, inspire creative exploration, educate, and entertain, through the presentation of quality performing arts events and education for diverse audiences.