It's A Wonderful Life

Theatrikos Theatre Co. is bringing a cast of nearly 30 local actors to its main stage for 11 heartwarming performances of the holiday classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The show runs Dec. 6 through Dec. 22 at the Doris Harper-White Community Playhouse in historic downtown Flagstaff.

Adapted for the stage by James Rodgers, and based on the beloved 1946 film by Frank Capra, “It’s a Wonderful Life” is considered a perennial favorite for its timeless themes of gratitude, friendship and benevolence.

The play tells the familiar story of George Bailey, who all his life has dreamt of escaping the sleepy town of Bedford Falls in pursuit of grand adventures. But he never quite shakes the dust from his shoes, and when faced with a family obligation to the local Building and Loan, George sacrifices his own dreams to help his fellow townsfolk achieve theirs.

But George is plunged into despair when a financial mishap threatens his livelihood and his freedom. As he contemplates ending his life on Christmas Eve, his guardian angel descends to show him what the world would have been like had he never been born—reminding George that his has been, after all, a wonderful life.

Viola award-winning Theatrikos veteran Becky Daggett directs the cast of dozens, which includes Nick Rabe as “everyman” George Bailey; Adrienne Bischoff as his kind and supportive wife, Mary; Bryan Wood as the endearing guardian angel, Clarence; and Dave Kelly as the evil slumlord Mr. Potter.

“This film has always been a favorite of mine, so I jumped at the chance to tell this story in my own community,” Daggett said. “I think it’s easy to get caught up in our daily stresses, sometimes forgetting or neglecting the moments and people for which we should be grateful. I hope audiences will leave the theater reflecting on their own lives and thinking of ways to be of help to others.”