In a tiny corner of Brighton, a little Christmas miracle is taking place.
With a cast of volunteer actors, matchbox-size stage and low-budget production the classic feel-good movie It’s A Wonderful Life has been transformed into a powerful and moving stage-play more magical than the original.
It follows George Bailey, played by Leigh Ward, in his darkest hour. Facing financial ruin, he contemplates ending it all. Trainee angel, Clarice, a wry yet innocent Ann Atkins, comes to save him by showing what the world would have been without him.
Clarice researches George’s life through a series of flashbacks revealing a 1920s-40s suburban America with the excellent ensemble cast playing the townsfolk of Bedford Falls.
The ingenious and slick production takes us on a journey through homes, offices and bars with a change of a curtain or a quick-revolve of a wall on the tiny stage.
Ward shakes off the shadow of the great James Stewart as fantastic good ol’ George whose life endlessly thwarts him, while also offering him salvation, with an intensity and likeability.
The Brighton Little Theatre Company ends their 75th anniversary celebrations this year with an absolute cracker of a finale. Grab a ticket for some Christmas magic.
Five stars
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