Review: This Wonderful Life - Aurora Theatre at Firdale Village

This Wonderful Life

Aurora Theatre Company

Play by Steve Murray 

Conceived by Marc Setlock

Directed by Scott Charles Francis

Based on Frank Capra’s film: It’s a Wonderful Life

At Firdale Village Theatre

November 12-28, 2015

Review by Doug Gochanour

Photos courtesy Aurora Theatre Company

Aurora Theatre Company Director, Scott Charles Francis, has brought wonderful outdoor theatre productions to Shoreline. First, there was “Into The Woods,” followed this year with “Fiddler on the Roof.”

This latest production moves indoors at the intimate Firdale Village Theatre, showing that good theatre can be enjoyed out on the lawn, or in a cozy room in a seat beside a charmingly simple stage.

Based on Frank Capra's classic 1946 film, the story unfolds on Christmas Eve as George Bailey fears that he has failed his family, his friends and his community. In despair, he considers suicide until Clarence, a dotty angel-in-waiting, shows him how bleak the world would have been if he had never lived.

Chris Carwithen demonstrates some of the expanse of his talents as he portrays 36 characters to convey the famous story of George Bailey. Chris spins the holiday classic tale, briefly jumping into various characters to bring life to each scene. He portrays the emotions of each person, making them real for the appreciative audience. 

In addition to acting out the critical actions of the tale, Chris elaborates upon the significance of those events. As the “story teller,” Chris communicates how the actions of one individual can ripple out into the lives of so many others. He delivers this serious message in manner that includes delightfully humorous interplay with his audience.

In much the same way that one individual’s actions can set up a chain of events in the lives of others, Phillip Van Doren Stern wrote the short story “The Greatest Gift” in 1939. It became the basis for “It’s a Wonderful Life,” released in 1946. And now we have this 80-minute adaptation as “This Wonderful Life.” 

Do plan to attend this innovative performance of “This Wonderful Life.” Do your part in creating a positive ripple effect this holiday season by bringing non-perishable food items to the theatre, being collected for Food Lifeline.

Plan ahead. Aurora Theatre Company will present Lionel Bart’s “Oliver” at the Shoreline City Hall next August. Make a note in your 2016 calendar.

Aurora Theatre Company at the Firdale Village Theatre, 9673 Firdale Ave Edmonds, 98020.
November 12-28 Thursday - Saturday 8pm and November 28 2pm. Tickets $25 online