Disley Theatrical Productions return to St Mary’s Creative Space with the Christmas Classic, It’s a Wonderful Life.
Directed by Gail Young, we are taken along the journey of George Bailey and his life from one of his lowest points, right back to when he was a child, up to present day, and even how life would have been if he had never been born. This is all played out so Bailey’s Guardian Angel, Clarissa, can get to know who she is going to help and hopefully get her wings along with it.
George Bailey is brought to life by Rob Lyon and what a role! Barely leaving the stage and so integral to the story. Lyon is great in the role, giving all the emotions needed to take us on this rollercoaster of a ride that Bailey goes on. Clarissa is played by Hilary Wiseman and brings a warmth to the role that has you wishing her well and hoping she eventually gets her wings. Charlotte Chinn is fantastic as Mary Bailey and Evan Roberts shines as both Sam and Mr Martini.
John Lindop, Julian Eyre, Josh Wood, Holly Gifford, Will Shaw and Ray Bengree complete the cast, and all play their parts nicely to carry the story along. There were a few stumbles with lines, but the cast worked well together to cover and get back on track and this could be down to opening night nerves.
St Mary’s is a great multifunctional space but comes with its challenges meaning you have to make use of every part of the space. This includes actors using different entrances and exits, like walking through the audience which makes us feel a little more involved but at times there was no lighting on the cast in these areas. The auditorium space is quite dark, especially preshow and during the interval, and this could have been a directorial decision, but it did make the whole experience feel a little gloomy rather than uplifting.
Lighting by Joe Sanderson was minimal and for the most used well although, as mentioned, at times cast members were in darkness, although this could be due to opening night niggles.
As with most plays, there were no microphones in use which left some parts of the play difficult to hear, especially the opening where the actors are far back on the stage and the sound effects tended to drown out the voices.
The set was simple but effective and looked great, constructed by Mark Disley and Artwork made by Phil Cross and Natalie Hayes. Costumes by Pete Russell were fantastic and reflected the era perfectly.
It’s a Wonderful Life is a nice play, especially in the run up to Christmas and is definitely worth a watch but wrap up well as it’s a little chilly in a church this time of year.
Running until Sunday 24th November with tickets available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/disleytheatricalproductions
Reviewer: Damian Riverol
Reviewed: 21st November 2024
North West End UK Rating: