Mission Viejo's 'It's a Wonderful Life' rings with spirit

Cappies review: 'It's a Wonderful Life'


The spirit of Christmas fills the air during Mission Viejo's engaging and sentimental production of "It's A Wonderful Life." The story centers around George Bailey, a man who is about to take his own life.

A novice angel must convince him to continue living through a journey to his past and to a shocking alternate reality. Through creative technical elements and sincere relationships and characters, "It's A Wonderful Life" teaches audiences to appreciate the wonder and magic of life.

From lively and ambitious with a swift, sure walk and upbeat voice, to despairing and desperate, Robert Augustine demonstrates a highly dynamic character, brimming with vitality as George Bailey.

The character ranges from sweet and affectionate, as he nervously takes Mary's hand, giggling and smiling warmly, to serious and biting as his voice rises and his posture stiffens when facing the harsh Mr. Potter. The character's returning love for life and happiness is apparent through his running and skipping, shouting with glee as he hugs everything in sight, even the pillow cushions and the Christmas tree. Augustine captures the passion of the character's highest joys to the lowest sadness.

Sarah McDermott (Mary Hatch) shines onstage with a mellow, sweet voice, and graceful elegance. She sings and sighs softly to herself, wandering about in a daze of love, her subdued desire for romance reflecting the character's innocence. McDermott portrays Mary's growing maturity with subtlety and refinement as she moves gently, giving caring glances to her husband or children, hugging them to her to comfort them. With sincerity and honest relationships with other characters, McDermott's Mary is a ray of loving light in the darkest of situations.

Technical elements of the show create a unique mood for each scene and engage audiences. The sets by Parker Genoway and the stagecraft class range from cold and harsh to warm and cheerful, all while maintaining a simplicity that allows for greater emphasis of basic emotion and characters.

The snow-covered trees and backgrounds with crimson bows and emerald green wreaths create a festive atmosphere, while the blue tint of the snow adds seriousness to somber scenes.

"It's A Wonderful Life" glows with warmth and demonstrates a variety of atmospheres and characteristics that reflect the ever-changing nature of life itself. It's a "wonderful" production at Mission Viejo.



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