by R.E. Smith
Like many film to stage translations, “A Wonderful Life”
must decide whether it is going to compete with or complement its celluloid
predecessor or forge a path entirely of its own. In this case, the addition of
songs to a faithful narrative serves as compliment but leaves the audience
wondering if that was enough to justify the endeavor.
In small town Bedford Falls, NY, George Bailey is a decent,
kind man with dreams that have been thwarted by the very goodness that defines
him. In a desperate hour, when he regrets the course his life has taken,
heavenly intervention will allow him to see what the world would have been like
without him. Though the film is inextricably linked to Christmas, the story
really has very little to do with that specific season and this interpretation
downplays the association even more: no need to fear seeing a yuletide show in
October.
First produced in 1986, the music is by Joe Raposo, an Emmy
& Grammy winner, who wrote over 1000 songs for Sesame Street. The book and
lyrics are by Sheldon Harnick, of “Fiddler on the Roof” fame. “In a State,” a
jaunty Charleston number, brightens the stage with peppy choreography and
youthful energy, though it does little to drive the story. In the same scene,
“A Wonderful Life,” nicely incorporates the underlying theme. Both are
winningly performed by Josh Franklin as Sam Wainwright, George’s dashing friend
(and reminder of life outside the town).
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| Photo by Diane Sobolewski |
As always with Goodspeed, the staging, musicianship, and
performances are all top notch. The sentiment is certainly sincere and the
show’s message is a positive one. Movie fans will not have their memories
tarnished and theatre fans will appreciate Goodspeed’s continued mission to reviving
forgotten American works.
