Proof That Small-Scale Theatre Can Be Magical: It’s a Wonderful Life

Rating:  * * * * *

What a truly outstanding piece of theatre!

From the moment you arrive in the foyer of the Royal Court’s Studio – a traditional, intimate small theatre, you are immersed into Bedford Falls.  This sets the ambiance for the play as you are greeted and given a warm welcome by the cast who remain in character throughout all the interactions with the audience. Additionally, for twenty minutes prior to the play commencing, the character George Bailey is on stage, looking dejected, downcast and utterly melancholic whilst the audience are taking their seats and giving 

The acting throughout the performance by all artists from Old Fruit Jar Productions was utterly sublime, with each character showcasing their immense skill and mastery of their craft.  

The singing and harmonies were better than recent plays I’ve seen in London’s West End and on Broadway. They captured the essence of this Christmas class play; it was heart-warming, enchanting and thoroughly captivating.

With a simple, yet highly effective set and quality costumes and props that were in-keeping with the era, brought this classic and well loved story to the stage for audiences to enjoy live theatre. 

This was a truly fantastic production that should be on the main stage!

Old Fruit Jar Productions is a company that theatre goers need to follow, and support in all their ventures as they delivered a high quality, phenomenal performance that had their audience enthralled from the before the play commenced until their end.  Their standing ovation was well deserved!