Review: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, Mangled Yarn - Online

Photo credit: Stephanie Crome

Christmas Eve. George is contemplating ending his life. He never got out of Bedford Falls; the bank is on the verge of closure; Potter is closing in and his blasted kids won’t stop practicing the infernal piano. It’s all too much. Now only Clarence Odbody, Angel Second Class, can save him and finally get his wings. 

It’s that time of year again Besties, and with Mangled Yarn’s production of It’s A Wonderful Life, you need look no further for a festive theatre treat. 

Directed by Christopher Smart, It’s A Wonderful Life (filmed at The Place Theatre in Bedford) is based on the Christmas film classic of the same name. The production, adapted by Neil Jennings & Smart, is cleverly performed by four actors (Neil Jennings, Maryanne O’Brien, Alex Rivers and Edward Ferrow) alternating different roles throughout. 

There are many strong factors about the piece including the use of puppetry and brilliant comedic timing, as well as audience participation. As an audience, we are taken on a journey through the life of George Bailey in different scenarios as he gives up his own personal dreams and comes up against Potter (a man who holds power over a lot of money). A strong performance is given here by Jennings, with in-depth storytelling. This is accompanied well by Zoe Hudson and Neil Jennings’ set design. 

Other characters throughout the production include Ma and Zuzu Bailey (O’Brien), Violet Bick and Sam Wainwright (Rivers) and of course the all important Clarence Odbody (Ferrow); all of whom are played brilliantly by the three actors. It should also be mentioned here that the American dialect and others are delivered with excellent precision. 

There are musical interludes which work well in the flow of scenes when used. There are also references to the It’s A Wonderful Life film as well as other comic moments referring to other films of a similar festive genre which fit perfectly. 

The moral of the story is an important one and it’s simply the power of doing good. If it wasn’t for George Bailey and the power of good he does for his colleagues, friends & family, Bedford Falls wouldn’t be Bedford Falls, it would be Pottersville. 

A brilliant Christmas production for all the family to enjoy! We would definitely recommend, Besties. 

***** Five stars

Mangled Yarn Theatre’s It’s A Wonderful Life is available to watch on demand until 31 December here.