Reviews: It’s a Wonderful Life at Briar Woods High School
Written by Santi de Leon of Walt Whitman High School
What if the world erased you overnight? What if you had never been born? Well... it's a wonderful life, isn't it?
Set in a pre-Christmas, Great Depression era, "It's a Wonderful Life" is based on the 1946 Frank Capra film - considered one of the greatest American movies of all time - and the short story by Phillip Van Doren Stern. This stage adaptation by James W. Rodgers brings the classic story to life as it follows George Bailey at his lowest point, ready to jump off a bridge, until an angel named Clarence intervenes and walks him through the defining moments in his life to show him how valuable and wonderful his life truly is.
The stage adaptation honors the original film, successfully translating its emotional moments into a moving theatrical experience that could strongly resonate with the audience, especially when performed so close to the holidays.
Nathan Garlock portrayed George Bailey in a remarkable performance that balanced hope and heartbreak seamlessly. He captured both George's warmth and hope, as well as the exhaustion of a man on the verge of giving up. His chemistry with Aryah Mattis (Mary) felt deeply genuine and full of love, making their relationship especially compelling. Apart from that, Mattis by herself delivered a heartfelt and caring performance, perfectly embodying a strong, caring, and devoted wife, who has always loved and believed in her husband.
Clarence, the second-class guardian angel, was another standout. Kya Taylor's performance was filled with warmth and charm, showing incredible presence and commitment - even in moments that required remaining completely still on the bridge. Taylor made Clarence steal every scene he was in.
From the moment the curtain rose, the audience was met with a really impressive, visually stunning set. According to set designer Troy Ryan, the design was inspired by "a 1950s retro vibe and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge," which served as the central visual element of the production. The collaboration with the props team further enhanced the period atmosphere. Props designer Michelle Herbert noted that nearly all props were handcrafted, adding depth and realism to the town of Bedford Falls and the different locations.
This production reminds audiences that even in the darkest moments, life is still worth living and asks us to appreciate what we often overlook: our family, our friends, and the quiet impact we have on them. Sometimes, we simply need to take a moment to remind ourselves that it is truly a wonderful life.
Written by Katelyn Haggard of Loudoun Valley High School
Every December, It's A Wonderful Life pulls us back to Bedford Falls to remind us why we matter, even on the days we forget. This production, staged by Briar Woods High School, brought heartfelt charm to this timeless classic.
It's A Wonderful Life traces its origins back to 1939, when Philip Van Doren Stern wrote a short manuscript titled "The Greatest Gift," centered around a man grappling with the value of his own life. Stern self-published the story as a Christmas card in 1943, and later it served as the basis for the 1946 feature film directed by Frank Capra. The story follows George Bailey, a man who dedicates his life to helping others while setting aside his own dreams. Facing a crisis that leaves him in despair, George is visited by an angel named Clarence, who shows him an alternate reality - a world where he was never born. This reveals the far-reaching impact of his life and helps him recognize his own worth.
George Bailey, portrayed by Nathan Garlock, is a selfless but burdened man, struggling between helping others and pursuing his own desires. Nathan utilized purposeful movement and vocal variety to depict George's innermost thoughts and emotions - from the relief of resolving the loan conflict to the despair of finding himself alone in a different reality. Through this, Nathan captured George's inner conflict in a clear and captivating way.
In the role of Clarence Odbody, Kya Taylor embodied a patient and persistent guardian angel. Kya crafted an interesting and engaging character, using purposeful line delivery and physicality to enhance their stage presence. This portrayal of Clarence demonstrated incredible depth by means of emotional shifts, conveying things from patience to desperation across the show's many scenes.
Mary Hatch, played by Aryah Mattis, shone as a steadfast and devoted figure. She stood out as an engaged presence onstage, bringing substantial energy and commitment throughout the performance. Aryah highlighted Mary's connection with George, using thoughtful physical choices - such as intentional shifts in physical distance and eye contact - to further develop their relationship.
Beyond the work onstage, this show's technical elements deserve recognition of their own! The lighting team, headed by Chad Luck, created a natural, wintery atmosphere that brought the story to life. Their use of gobos - stencils placed in lighting fixtures to project patterns or images onto a surface - added striking visual elements, such as snowy tree silhouettes or the bright moon shining above. The team also supported shifting emotional tones, using both vibrant and subdued lighting to fit the moment.
Additionally, the scenic design crew, led by Troy Ryan, created multiple impressive pieces. The bridge was especially remarkable, inspired by those found in the 1950s and painted to resemble weathered, rusted metal. The set also featured time-appropriate details such as wallpapers that gave the world a convincing, true-to-life appearance.
Overall, Briar Woods High School delivered a profound production that beautifully captured the story's timeless heart. From sincere performances to the thoughtfully executed staging, the cast and crew presented a polished rendition that underscored the lasting impact of this classic show!