This Wonderful Life at the Hipp
As we enter the holiday season many classic films come to mind. One of the most beloved films of the holidays is “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Everyone remembers Jimmy Stewart’s character George Bailey, the troubled man wanting to find purpose to his life, who sacrifices his own dreams of seeing the world to help others. In this amazing production of “This Wonderful Life,” mega-talented stage actor, Christopher Swan returns to the Hippodrome to bring back this one-man production.
Impressively and flawlessly playing all 32 characters of the Hollywood classic film, Christopher brings the audience right into the story with him.
Christopher’s performance uses the ultimate in visualization and audience participation and interaction. The narration of the story is insightful, historical and captures everyone’s imagination whether they have seen the film or not.
There are poignant moments and comical ones as well. The audience burst out with laughter over Christopher facetiously describing the typical “Hollywood classic kiss,” or his reference to the “the Great Depression, and for the younger audience members who may not know when exactly that took place, they could Google it, but not now.”
Without the benefit of costume change or make-up, Christopher transforms into each iconic character of that film as if he coexists inside each one including the wee ones: Zuzu, Tommy, Little Harry, Little George and Little Sam.
His adaptation of Lionel Barrymore’s famous character, Henry Potter, is impeccable. He brings the entire town of Bedford Falls to life and of course, Clarence Odbody, Angel Second Class who is assigned to save George and needs to earn his wings.
At the end of the play, the audience quickly rose to their feet for a standing ovation that was very well deserved. The play will capture not only your heart, but also the child in every adult and will leave you with a true lesson to what really matters in life.
The show runs 90 minutes without an intermission, but the show is so entertaining and engaging, you really don’t notice the time. “This Wonderful Life” is directed by Lauren Caldwell and written by Steve Murray.
The play is at the Hippodrome and runs until Dec. 23. Tickets and information: 352-375-4477. Price: $12-$32.
-review by Cathleen Rockwell
