Newnan Theatre Company Presents IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE

Newnan Theatre Company is proud to announce the opening of It's A Wonderful Life, adapted by James Rodgers from the movie directed by Frank Capra. The show opens on November 30 and runs through December 10. This classic story deals with George Bailey, a man who feels like he has given up every dream he had during his youth in order to do what was expected of him, only to find himself feeling unrewarded in every way. In a fit of despair, he wishes that he had never been born. His wish is heard by Clarence, an "angel, second class" from above who decides to let George see what life would be like for all those whose life he has touched.

"This is such a holiday classic," says director Charles Ferguson. "I grew up watching this movie every Christmas, sometimes three or four times. When I found out NTC had chosen it for one of its holiday productions, I practically jumped at the chance to direct it. Its moral message is so simple - no one goes through life without having an effect on others. There may not be blatant signs of the effect, but, nonetheless, the effects are there."

Josh Hendricks plays George Bailey, the role made famous by Jimmy Stewart. "Who wouldn't want a chance to play a role that James Stewart played?" says Hendricks. "And like Charles said, the message of the show is so much a part of the holiday season. Take the time to think on everyone you know, and be thankful that they are a part of your life, as much as you are a part of theirs."

Lauren Smith plays Mary, the girl who grew up with a crush on George and eventually becomes his wife. Daniel Sellers plays Clarence Odbody, the "angel, second class" who has made more than one bungle in his heavenly career, and who is hoping he makes good with "The Boss" this time. Rob Stowe takes on the role of Mr. Potter, the miserly land baron of Bedford Falls, whose nasty ways have plagued George for most of his life.

The large cast allows many first-timers to have some stage time at NTC. Youngsters Timothy Brandon and Ella Brown are making their mainstage debuts with this show, playing Young George and Zuzu Bailey. They join NTC regulars John Caldwell III, playing Mr. Gower, and Ralph Myers, playing Uncle Billy. "I'm excited to be a part of these kids' first time in a mainstage play," says Caldwell. "This is the second show I have done this season where children are a main focus of the plot, and it is amazing what these kids can do. Talent shows at a very early age."

It's A Wonderful Life, adapted by James Rodgers, based on the film directed by Frank Capra, opens on November 30 and runs through December 10. The show covers two consecutive weekends, Thursdays through Sundays. Show times are 8 PM, Thursday through Saturday, with the Sunday shows running at the matinee time of 3 PM. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting the Newnan Theatre Company website, www.newnantheatre.org , or by calling NTC at 770.683.6282. Group rates are available for this production, and the show is family-friendly