It’s a Wonderful Life Indeed!

Heart-warming triumph once again from the cast of Alex Carr’s Old Fruit Jar Productions

Wednesday 20^th November 2024 @ Liverpool Royal Court

***** 5/5

When Frank Capra brought It’s A Wonderful Life to the silver screen in 1946, he created more than just a Christmas movie; he gave the world a fable about hope, humanity, and the impact of one life on an entire community. It’s a story that many have held close, and one that always provides solace and comfort at this time of year. The stage adaptation by Old Fruit Jar Productions, opening tonight at the Liverpool Royal Court, managed to capture all that timeless magic whilst also breathing new life into protagonist George Bailey’s journey.

This production, as always with this inspired group of young Liverpool performers, wasn’t just a play. It was a compelling, thought-provoking, emotive experience that left a sell-out audience inspired, introspective, and more than a little teary-eyed.

The ensemble – a diverse but unified collection of truly talented young actors, brought an astounding level of depth and authenticity to their roles. Robbie Fletcher-Hill, whose expert and often commanding portrayal of George Bailey, offered a particularly remarkable insight into the self-sacrificing and contemplative central character. Filled with intensity, warmth, and fragility, Fletcher-Hill held the audience in his palm. His George was both heroic and heartbreakingly human, bringing to the stage all the layers of a man pushed to the edge, but somehow surviving through love and community. The audience felt every high and low along George’s turbulent journey, owing much to Fletcher-Hill’s emotional range.

The iconic story of a desperate George Bailey receiving a Christmas miracle from a well-meaning angel named Clarence was handled with great care and creativity under the direction of award-winning Filmmaker and Director, Alex Carr. Carr, already renowned in his 20’s around the Liverpool scene for his innovative storytelling, managed to blend traditional elements of the screenplay with fresh stage techniques and set devices, both preserving the original magic and adding a touch of contemporary charm. The pacing was excellent, the intervention of song uplifting, and the narrative slick, striking a perfect balance between the lighter moments and the gut-wrenchingly emotional scenes.

Speaking of song, the singing performances added a wonderful new dimension to this classic tale. The four actors, Florence King, Rachel McGrath, Sienna Morris, and Faye Griffiths stunned the audience, quite frankly, with their breath-taking four-part harmony. Angelic, fascinating on a musical ear, and delivered with such gusto, it was truly a welcome assault on the senses. I noted fellow audience members sitting up straight in their seats as the music began – both surprised and delighted by such moments that left an indelible impression.

Florence King, the inimitable leading lady of the production, was undoubtedly one of the highlights. Her incredible talent as a seamless and assured actor, combined with her vocal prowess, made her a captivating presence onstage. King’s Mary Bailey was tender, resilient, and wholly believable – a perfect hand-to-hold for Fletcher-Hill’s George. Her scenes were oiled, sleek and brought an authenticity that grounded the more whimsical, supernatural aspects of the story.

Jordan Barkley, a long-time stalwart of Old Fruit Jar Productions, added his trademark comedic timing to the performance, eliciting laughter at all the right moments – a crucial element in a story with such emotional depth. His presence provided a sense of continuity for loyal followers of the production company, and his knack for humour is always a welcome addition. Special mention must be made of Taona Matope too, whose debut with Old Fruit Jar Productions brought an infectious energy, humour, and sparkle to every role he played, particularly Mr. Martini. His undeniable charisma brightened the stage – we hope to see much more of him in future productions.

Another regular Old Fruit Jar Productions actor, Luke Seddon, provided the necessary grump and cold compassion to the role of money hungry Mr Potter, Josh Ennis was typically superb in his amusing and eccentric portrayal of uncle Billy, and Rachel McGrath, as Violet Bick, was every inch the sultry, seductive, intuitive social feeler. Sean Radford put a particularly impressive and arresting performance in as Bert the Cop, Anthony Roberts’ gripping drowning scene as Harry Bailey was a particular show highlight, and Andrew Johnson’s various portrayals in his first role with the company were nuanced and brilliantly delivered.

By the time the final curtain fell, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. The audience was visibly moved – many arm in arm having sang wholeheartedly to Auld Lang Syne. There’s something profound about seeing George Bailey’s story unfold in 2024 … a time of great uncertainly and distrust, where friends have never more been needed. The vulnerability, the triumph, the reminder that each life touches so many others in ways that are often unseen. The closing moments were simply unforgettable, and the impact was evident as people hugged, smiled, and reminisced all the way up the stairs and out into the chilly November night.

The cast of Old Fruit Jar Productions – guided by Alex Carr’s sensitive direction – delivered a moving, magical, and incredibly heart-warming interpretation of a beloved classic. An unforgettable gift to Liverpool, and a wonderful reminder of what really matters, this is a must see for all.

Old Fruit Jar Productions are collecting for The Snowdrop Unit at Alder Hey Hospital Children’s Charity.

It’s A Wonderful Life
Old Fruit Jar Productions
Directed by Alex Carr

Runs November 20^th-30^th @ Liverpool Royal Court

Runs December 10^th-13^th @ Liverpool St George’s Hall