Arguably one of the best Christmas movies of all time, It’s a Wonderful Life was this year’s Cranford High School play. If you’re unfamiliar with the movie, this 1946 classic tells the tale of an angel who visits a man (George Bailey) about to end his life. The angel works to show him what reality would be like if he had never existed.           

A throwback to the 1940s, the play was presented as a live radio performance narrated by Ellie Dillon (Joseph), was acted out by twelve thespians portraying the various characters, and uniquely featured “commercials” in between acts which the audience loved. Actors, Jack Struble (George Bailey) and Olivia Ludlam (Mary Hatch), embodied their characters and seamlessly delivered their lines throughout the play. The cast might have been small, but they filled the stage and brought the story to life. 

Despite the challenge of performing in a different location than the CHS auditorium, the acting department was able to easily adapt and deliver an entertaining production. The joyful Christmas scenery, 1940s clothing, and, of course, talent of the students made this show worthwhile. 

Overall, Cranford High School’s rendition of It’s a Wonderful Life brought the story we all know and love to the stage for the community to enjoy. Watch out for the Spring Musical, Into The Woods, on March 10th-12th, because you won’t want to miss it!