Tonight was going to be a special night because a world premier stage adaptation of one of my favorite movies, was going to be performed on a Fairfax, VA stage. You might ask what makes this version different from all other versions of this particular transfer from screen to stage? This is a new stage adaption of Frank Capra’s holiday favorite It’s a Wonderful Life, and every single role is played by one actor – Jason Lott.
Jason Lott as George Bailey on 'Wonderful Life.' Photo by John Potter.
What you will discover as you take in the night’s extravaganza is how timeless the work really is. Even though the film was made 65 years ago, it is just as relevant today. Some of the dialogue sounds vaguely familiar. It’s the same kinds of arguments you hear from both sides of the aisle on Capitol Hill that seem to be just as real today as they were in the script of 1946. And, the eeriness of the words from Mr. Potter – “You know, George, you are worth more dead than alive” brings a reality check to those in our economy that are dealing with extensive challenges in living life to its fullest when they are either underemployed or looking for a job.
The Hub Theatre’s venue provides an extremely intimate space for appreciating its efforts. There are less than 100 seats, but every seat gives you perfect perspective to experience what’s happening on the stage.
Scenic Designer Brooke Robbins’ set consists of a fairly large wooden plank and one wooden bench is placed on it. Three signs hang from the ceiling which read, “William S. Gower Drugs, Martinis, and Bailey Brothers Building and Loan.” Yet, as the plot advances and the scene shifts to Pottersville, the signs disappear and images flash on the screen at the rear of the stage which are emblematic of the new Bedford Falls, New York as if George Bailey had never been born. At the end, behind a veiled curtain, you now see a Christmas tree, the same scene used in the closing minutes of the movie. Director Gregg Henry uses sound and special effects, and light to assist the audience in understanding the multi-layered plot and cast of characters. Lighting Designer Kyle Grant design helps illuminate the twelve changing characters and assists in identifying each one as Jason magically melts into each new character he portrays.
Jason Lott as Clarence in 'Wonderful Life.' Photo by C. Stanley Photography.
Jason Lott plays all twelve roles in the show and uses varying inflections of his voice, body mannerisms – whether he is standing or sitting – or whether he is playing his wife, his mother-in-law, his brother, his best friend or his arch nemesis. You will be mesmerized and touched by Jason’s heart-warming performance of George Bailey, and fascinated by how talented Mr. Lott is and you will be entertained by the wonderful characters he portrays.
Although some of the movie plot and script is in this new stage adaptation, there is room for improvisation by Mr. Lott. If you loved Jimmy Stewart’s performance in the film, you will adore Jason Lott’s heart-warming performance here and you will be reminded how important it is to ‘give’ rather to ‘receive.’
Artistic Director and co-adaptor of the stage production Helen Pafumi, has done fine work with Jason Lott in transferring the warmth and holiday spirit of the film’s script to the stage. It’s a fascinating combination of both creativity and inspiration both behind the scenes and on-stage that make this evening unique and a must-see.
Toward the end of the Frank Capra classic film, It’s a Wonderful Life, Clarence writes a message in the cover of Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer: “Remember, no man is a failure if he has friends.” So, grab a friend or two and take a trek out to Fairfax County to get into the spirit of this special time of year. It will warm the holiday cockles of your heart. This is one ‘wonderful’ production and Jason Lott has truly earned his wings.
Running time: 75 minutes with no intermission.
Wonderful Life plays through December 27, 2011, at The Hub Theatre – 9431 Silver King Court, in Fairfax VA. For tickets, call the box office at (703) 674-3177, or purchase them online.
Eric hails from the City of Brotherly Love and was brought up in a show business family. His mother performed locally and maybe that’s where he inherited an interest in live Theater. His first Broadway show was Fiddler on the Roof with Zero Mostel. He arrived in Washington, DC and started working full time during the day and earning his Masters Degree in the evening. He has always believed movies were fun to watch, but theater was the place to be for spontaneity, creativity and ingenuity. Since his fascination with theater developed at an early age, Eric has seen more shows than he can count as well as making a yearly pilgrimage to the Big Apple. Over the years, Eric has dabbled with theater as a member of a number of Toastmaster Groups around town. I write this column in memory of my American Idol, John Denver.
