“It’s a Wonderful Life” opens Friday, Dec. 6 at the Mansfield Playhouse. Adapted for the stage by James W. Rodgers, the show will be performed the next two weekends.
The 90 minute play, based on Frank Capra’s 1946 film, takes spectators through George Bailey’s life as he impacts other people’s lives. Before George almost commits suicide, he is met by his guardian angel. Throughout the play he is guided by the angel to ultimately find that his life matters in a meaningful way.
“The cast is putting a lot of heart into it. Everyone is supporting everyone,” commented director Millie Leverton. She said the meaning behind the movie, the importance of family and community, has made its way into the actors’ and actresses’ work ethic.
“They have all grown closer to each other,” she said.
Leverton has been in the theater world for most of her life. She started acting in local shows by the time she turned 18. She still finds herself, at the age of 74, pouring her heart and soul into the theater scene.
“Every year,” she added, “I’m reminded of how much energy it actually takes to do something like this. And it’s starting to run a little low.”
Despite her age and energy level, however, she still seems to have that director’s vitality and confidence in her voice, and still holds onto the adage that good theater can be made with just “two planks and a passion.”
Tony Viscioni, who plays George Bailey stated, “I hope people who watch the show this year are reminded that God still answers prayer.”
Viscioni was surprised when he found out he had made the role. At 43, with a wife and children and a church to pastor (Ontario Free Methodist), he thought his chances were slim to none.
“I didn’t know anybody before coming on the set. Everyone has been very supportive and it’s almost like we are a family,” said Viscioni. He said he, his church, and his family were excited to experience this play.
Gregg Ashbrook II plays the walk-on role of Mr. Martini. He said he was asked to fill the slot three weeks ago. With 10 years of acting, locally and professionally gigs, the role was manageable for him.
“It’s cool that the show emphasizes that our actions have weight,” commented Ashbrook. “It’s very community oriented and the cast has grown really close. Which is cool because a large portion of the cast is new [to acting.]”
The Mansfield Playhouse building, at 95 East Third Street, used to be a church where people gathered to worship. Since 1968, however, that building has been the hub for local actors to perform their favorite shows and for spectators to experience the thrill of entering into another world.
The Mansfield Playhouse is an example of how buildings change. Buildings may change or deteriorate, but principles like the importance of community and family will not fade. The Playhouse building keeps those vaules alive.
A church has a pastor, is full of people who are connected in a close community, and occasionally sing together. In that way, the building hasn’t changed from its original purpose.
Visit their website to check on show times and directions.Show times and ticket purchasing are available on the website or by calling 419-522-2883.
“I didn’t know anybody before coming on the set. Everyone has been very supportive and it’s almost like we are a family,” said Tony Viscioni.
