Adapted by Joe Landry
from the screenplay of the 1946 movie
Directed by James
Scott
Honest Puck Theatre
at the CADA Theatre, Fyshwick to 23 December
Reviewed by Len Power
14 December 2017
Frank Capra’s ‘It's A Wonderful Life’ is considered one of
the most critically acclaimed films ever made.
It ranked as number 11 on the American Film
Institute’s 1998 list of the 100 best American films. Initially released in 1946, starring James
Stewart and Donna Reed, it’s a sentimental favourite that still works despite
its age.
Adapted as a radio play by Joe Landry, it’s a great showcase
for Honest Puck Theatre’s group of talented performers from the Canberra
Academy Of Dramatic Art.
Everyone in this excellent ensemble gives sharply etched,
truthful characterizations in this fast-moving and visually clever production
directed by James Scott.
The cast of six – Hayden Splitt, Katherine Berry, Monica
Engel, Colin Giles, Michael Ubrihien and James Scott - play a multitude of
believable characters from small town America.
Accents are well-maintained and each cast member is able to move from
character to character with lightning speed.
 | |
| Left to Right: Hayden Splitt, Colin Giles, Monica Engel, Katharine Berry. Background: Michael Ubrihien |
The fun of watching a radio play performed is to see the
actors moving swiftly between microphones as different characters and observing
how sound effects are incorporated into the show for atmosphere.
Of course, in real radio most people only heard the show
over the air and their imagination did the rest. Close your eyes for a few minutes during this
production and you’ll have a completely different and fascinating experience.
James Scott’s direction for this work is excellent. It runs at the right pace with in-depth
characterizations and a strong visual sense as well as fine sound design. The cast members winking and smiling at the
audience when not actually performing at the microphone gave the show a
recording studio reality.
‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ is a favourite movie for many
people. It works wonderfully as a radio
play, too.
Photo by Helen Musa
This review was first
published in the Canberra City News digital edition of 15 December 2017.
Len Power’s reviews
are also broadcast on Artsound FM 92.7’s new ‘On Stage’ program on Mondays from
3.30pm and on ‘Artcetera’ from 9.00am on Saturdays.