George Bailey and his guardian angel are traveling from Bedford Falls to West Windsor for “It’s a Wonderful Life,” a musical based on the 1946 Frank Capra film. Opening night for the show at Kelsey Theater is Friday, November 24, at 8 p.m. Audience members are invited to meet the cast and crew at a post-performance reception. The show continues on Saturdays, November 25, December 2 and 9, at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sundays, November 26, December 3 and 10 at 2 p.m.##M:[more]##
Blending music, comedy, and drama, Maurer Productions presents the story of George Bailey, a man destined to live a small town life despite big dreams of seeing the world. When financial ruin threatens to topple the family business, George considers ending it all. Luckily, Clarence, an angel working to get his wings, intervenes, helping George to see how many lives he has touched and how diminished his town would be if he had never been born. Audiences will meet all the memorable inhabitants of the film including Uncle Billy, Mr. Potter, Mary, Violet, Bert, and Mr. Gower — as they help teach George that the greatest gifts in life begin at home. Former West Windsor resident John Maurer directs the show.
The cast of “It’s a Wonderful Life” features three actors from the West Windsor and Plainsboro area including Virginia Manzari as Mrs. Thompson; Monica Nordeen as Miss Carter, and Victor Miller as Pop Bailey.
Manzari, who has studied acting in New York City with Lee Michael Cohen, has appeared in “Oklahoma!” and “Grease.” Her piano teacher, Guy Faux, encouraged her to audition for the musical. She lives in West Windsor with her husband, Steve, and children, Elise and Jack.
This is Nordeen’s New Jersey stage debut, as she has recently married her husband, Art, and moved from New York City to Plainsboro. Her New York City acting career included roles as Titania in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and Elaine in “Arsenic and Old Lace.”
Miller, who has performed many times on the Kelsey stage, lives in West Windsor with his wife, Lynn, the community news editor for WW-P News.
Tickets are $16, $12 for seniors, and $10 for students and children. Free parking. For tickets visit www.kelseytheatre.net or call 609-570-3333.
