Bedford Falls is a small town in a big country. For as long as he can remember, George Bailey has wanted to leave it behind and see the world, make a real difference. Somehow though, he never got the chance. Now, on a cold Christmas Eve, he stands on a snow-clad bridge parapet, looking down into the dark, icy river below. He faces ruin, but perhaps one last sacrifice can salvage some small hope for those he loves. But kind eyes are watching, and on the edge of tragedy, George is given a divine opportunity to see how his life has changed so many others.
This new adaptation of ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ by Mary Elliot Nelson follows George and many of the other inhabitants of Bedford Falls from the end of the Great War, through the Depression of the 1930’s, to the end of the Second World War. From high school prom to happy marriage, the wins and the losses, the smiles and heartbreak, the characters both good and bad that make up life in Bedford Falls.
This play is based on the now classic 1946 movie directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart and Donna Reed. It’s an uplifting, moving story of love, redemption and community. It’s also a brilliant, evocative slice of period small town Americana. Don’t miss this Christmas tale par excellence at Coulsdon Community Centre this December.