BWW Reviews: THIS WONDERFUL LIFE is an Evening of Masterful Story Telling

Simply said, Martin Burke delivers masterful story telling in a tour de force production of THIS WONDERFUL LIFE. In the course of the evening, Mr. Burke singlehandedly tells the story of "It's a Wonderful Life" playing all the characters... twice. He, aside from narrating, portrays some 29 different characters in what is a dazzling performance.

We all know the story of "It's A Wonderful Life"... but, what you might not know, is that the film was based on a short story called "The Greatest Gift" by Phillip Van Doren Stern. He was unsuccessful in his attempts to get it published, so, he turned it into long form Christmas card that he then mailed to his friends. That version came to the attention of a Hollywood producer who bought the rights to the story as a vehicle for Gary Grant. The movie got shelved and then was shuffled around until it landed on the desk of Frank Capra... and the rest is history. The film performed poorly when first released and didn't become the American classic holiday film it is thought of today until it was shown on television years later. THIS WONDERFUL LIFE is more the long form Christmas card than impersonations or summary.

Director Richard Robichaux has staged this piece like a marvelous spinning top on ZACH's Wisenhunt Stage. Every square inch is utilized as Burke careens around the set. And, speaking of the set, Ia Enstera has created a marvel of utility that is simultaneously utilitarian and beautiful. From the gorgeous marble floor, to the Bailey house, to the office and the bridge, this is some stunning work. The lighting, by Jason Amato, is exceptional, conveying time and place with absolute fluidity. Eliot Haynes sound design is also good; however, both the breaking windows and phone rings were so low level they almost were missed.

THIS WONDERFUL LIFE is a great evening of theatre that is not to be missed whether you're a fan of the film or not.

THIS WONDERFUL LIFE by Steve Murray.

Running time: Approximately Two hours, with one intermission.

THIS WONDERFUL LIFE, produced by ZACH Theatre, on the Whisenhunt Stage (202 South Lamar, Austin, TX, 78704) November 28, 2014 - December 28, 2014. Wednesdays through Saturdays, 7:30 pm; Sundays, 2:30 pm; some Saturday 2:30 pm performances. Reservations - http://tickets.zachtheatre.org/ or 512-476-0541.

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