"A beautiful production" —Jerry Wasserman, The Province

"Soars on angel wings of innovation" —Peter Birnie, The Vancouver Sun

"It’s brilliant…warm and fuzzy" —Jo Ledingham, The Vancouver Courier

"A beautiful production with excellent actors and great sets, It’s a Wonderful Life hopes to warm your heart and to pull on your heartstrings" —Melanie Shim, Press Plus One

"Like the movie, this stage adaptation of It's a Wonderful Life is destined to be a classic worthy of its yearly visit" —Mark Robins, GayVancouver [Read more]

"What a wonderful show! A timeless classic, indeed!" —Ed Farolan, reviewVancouver [Read more]

Audience Comments

"Me and my husband thoroughly enjoyed this performance. We had never seen the movie and it just made it so much better. I was so happy we chose this production and the actors were absolutely amazing! I will be back again next year"
—Nicole

"Our whole family (children aged 14 and 12) loved the wonderful characterizations, especially that of the beloved wingless angel. Your blending of cinematic clips and excellent stage props created an eclectic whole that truly conveyed the message of "it's a wonderful life.” The energetic cast never wavered in their commitment to their roles. GREAT WORK"
—Graeme, Tsawwassen

"I know the word is in the title and it's been overused…but I have to say that this show is indeed WONDERFUL! It's a story about discovering wonder in the ordinary things of our lives…and the cast, along with a great set, sound and lighting design drew us in with warmth and humour. It was great to finally see this story in vivid colour and in true 3D with living actors on stage!"
—Brian, Abbotsford

"We enjoyed the play. It was clever how the old movie was incorporated into the play. We liked Clarence a lot. His character was necessary to clarify some parts of the story. Thanks for the info about the parking in Granville Island and telling us the length of the play"
—Deanne, Delta

"This is the second time I've seen the show. I enjoyed it the first time, but it was all new again this year and we thoroughly enjoyed it. We were captivated from the beginning to the end. A great way to start the last week before Christmas. Thank you for another great production"
—Kathleen, North Vancouver

"I attended last Wednesday's matinee. I really enjoyed the performance. The actors were all so very good. Clarence and George Bailey were exceptional. Bringing in parts of the old movie, to cover some scenes that would be hard to show, was great. I love the atmosphere in the smaller theatre and the crowd, a lot of young students, really seemed to enjoy the show. I look forward to seeing more productions in the future. Merry Christmas to All"
—Jacqueline, North Vancouver

"The acting was outstanding and we loved the set design. It felt like we were there, living the story. A very enjoyable evening of great entertainment"
—Cheryl, Surrey

"We really enjoyed the show, I find it amazing how well you can do with just a few basic scene changes. The Actors did a wonderful job in It's a wonderful Life. Never been to the Arts Club before, I know we will come back again. Thank You"
—Jamey

"Loved this show! Having it at magical Granville Island with the lights and its festive feel already puts you in the mood. Brilliant directing with parts of the original movie intertwined with the real story. Wonderful acting which brought this timeless story to life here in Vancouver! It was a special evening which my friend and I enjoyed very much—thank you!"
—Susan, Vancouver

"Do not miss this production. It is our family Christmas tradition to watch the Movie but attending the play was fantastic and the start of a new tradition. Wonderful acting, beautiful sets with special surprise effects. Entertaining for all members of the family. Enjoy a special Christmas moment. Thank you Arts Club I hope it becomes an annual engagement"
—Sharon

"Very well done. My Mom and I thoroughly enjoyed the production. It was a perfect way to spend Christmas Eve. Thank you!!!"
—Sue

"We loved it. We saw it two years ago and it was as great as the first time!"
—Philip

"My husband and I have attended many stage performances throughout the Lower Mainland—my husband remarked that this is the best play he has ever seen. The actors were outstanding which was reflected in many of the audience shedding some tears. Well done—have recommended it to everyone we see"
—Donna, White Rock

"Heartwarming and endearing performances by three of my favourite Vancouver actors! Thanks to Bob, Bernard, and Jennifer for their stellar work, as always. I was happy to bring my teenage daughter to this production, as she saw our best talents make marvelous chemistry and deliver a poignant, timeless message"
—Anne, Fort Langley

"I thought the production was excellent. The acting was wonderful, and the scenery with parts of the movie projected throughout the performance made for a first class show. I also felt very comfortable in the new seats and look forward to another great night out…well done to everyone!"
—Diane, Surrey

"Best effective and affecting suspension of disbelief I have seen in a good long while"
—Beate, North Vancouver

"We are a group of ten girls who attended this wonderful show. We had a lovely time and we all could relate to the story in some way or another so it meant so much more to us.
The Cast did an incredible job in making it so real. We also enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Dockside Restaurant prior to the show. It was beautiful sunny day too so the views were excellent"
—Shamim, Vancouver

"My family and I attended "It's a Wonderful Life" last night. It is the 4th time we have seen the production over the years. You all do such a wonderful job from the outstanding acting to the use of well-placed film footage. Thank you so much for your dedication and continuing to produce such a "wonderful" rendition of a classic. It has become a tradition for us"
—Lisa, Delta

"I came with trepidation as I have been raised with the movie version, and love it and the actors in it. This production was wonderful. I got enthralled by the story all over again. The actors were tops, the story very well told, and the director did a smashing job of pulling it all together. I also enjoyed the sets—well done! Thank you all for a Christmas 2012 to be remembered"
—Chuck, Richmond

"The production flows smoothly and is highly captivating. The actors excelled themselves in their portrayal of the various characters in the play. For us, it was an emotional experience and enhanced the Christmas season. We have seen this previously and it gets better each time!"
—Elmer, White Rock

"Loved it! It is such a great little theatre and this production used wonderful props and visual effects!"
—Wendy, Saanichton

"It was a great presentation capturing many of the "one liners" that make the movie memorable. I thought it was also great the way you incorporated clips of the movie in the play.
Great job by all"
—Brian, Langley

"Outstanding performance! Between laughter and tears we enjoyed every minute! Love the new seats and the leg room is great too. We'll be back again!"
—Caroline, Delta

"This is a wonderful project for the Arts Club. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole evening. Everyone did such a good job of portraying their characters. It was so enjoyable. Special kudos to Clarence, he was great! The children too were great"
—Joan, Coquitlam

"A wonderful theatre, small, all excellent seats for viewing and hearing the performers. Every character gave an excellent performance, creative special effects. Loved the production"
—Richard, Merritt

"Amazing performances, fantastic show. I had never seen the movie nor seen the performance before, was completely blown away!"
—Karl

"This show is so enjoyable. It is our second time seeing it as a family and looks like it'll be a yearly tradition for us. The cast’s acting is very professional and natural. I'll recommend it to friends"
—Shaun

"Very well acted, a little convoluted at times until it comes full circle. The final stages were quite powerful and made the play a total success in my view. I have and will recommend this production. Thank You"
—Andrew

"Great times! This is the first play my two kids aged 15 and 14 attended and they loved it. The play was well acted, great mixture of drama and comedy. Arts club never disappoint"
—Darius

"Absolutely outstanding!!! The use of audiovisual and the acting was so well done. The actors were enthralling, lost myself in their emotions and realism. The venue was great, steep seating made for a great seat anywhere in the house. The front line staff were smiling and welcoming..great atmosphere. Got to meet Jennifer Lines after the performance. Thank you that was very kind of her, she autographed our programs…awesome"
—Cora, Grand Forks

"Fantastic. There were no weak links in this chain. I have never cried in a live performance before. And, it was so well-crafted!"
—Sherry, Vancouver

"My mother and I attended It’s a Wonderful Life. Like the title - it was absolutely ‘Wonderful.’ The acting was brilliant and the play was a perfect starter to the holiday season. My mother could not stop talking about it the next morning. Thank you for the wonderful Christmas experience. Happy Holidays"
—Kimlee, Vancouver

"We loved it. I attending with a friend and my two sons aged 10 and 11 and everyone thought the show well acted and very enjoyable. We loved the sets as well"
—Amarjit, Vancouver

"Fantastic Performance! The actors were committed and delivered flawlessly. Clarence & Potter stole the show...bravo! The set was also stunning and great work in moving them with the precision you did! I will be back!"
—James

"Before I went to this play. I was wondering how they were going to do any justice to an iconic movie "It's A Wonderful Life." From the first scene you knew that the director and cast were going to pull it off. It was truly magical. My only disappointment was that the ushers were not handing out tissue at the end of the play. Everyone around me was in tears, even my 15 year old son. This was the second time we seen the play. We are going to make this our Christmas tradition"
—Sonia, Surrey

"Excellent production: well-acted, well-paced and great sets! We had a wonderful evening!"
—Armelle

"A tradition for my daughter and me since the first year, we were extremely happy to see it back in the lineup for 2012! As always, a fantastic, uplifting way to start off our holiday season. Thank you Arts Club, once again. Next, White Christmas! :)"
—Sheryl, Vancouver

"Took in this production last night and it didn’t disappoint. This is our second time, having previously attending a few years back. Clarence was wonderful, with an added touch from last time, the whole cast is excellent. A woman behind me was crying at the end. A true Christmas Classic!!!"
—Cathy, Maple Ridge

"LOVED IT! I have two favourite productions from Arts Club: Scrooge (when I was nine) and It's a Wonderful Life (now--I'm 34). I love how you combined the movie with the onstage performance. Everyone performed their roles soooo well--I couldn't single out just one actor. It didn't feel like Christmas until seeing this production - thank you!"
—Lisa

"LOVED IT! This was my first experience at the Arts Club, and it was TREMENDOUS! The production was excellent and I would highly recommend both it, and the theatre itself"
—Nicole, Mission

"What a tremendous production! So true to the story and Clarence was a hoot! Thank you Arts Club for another terrific Christmas event!"
—Lori, Surrey

"The actor performance was top shelf. I brought along my two teen boys, taking a bit of departure from video games and social media. They loved it as much as my wife and I did. I highly recommend this play. The packed house were on their feet at the end"
—Ian

"Thank you for a Wonderful performance, your production team were excellent and true to the original much loved film. Both my wife and I, our 31 year old son and girlfriend and our 23 year old daughter and boyfriend had tears in our eyes - after our second viewing of the show, first viewing back in 2010 if I remember correctly. Merry Christmas to you all!"
—Ken, North Vancouver

"We loved it! Fantastic acting Highly recommend seeing it!"
—AnnLee, Abbotsford

"Brought the whole family and had a first class experience. Great cast and a very well put together show"
—Craig

"Thank you for bringing the movie to life. My wife and I shared the afternoon performance and completely enjoyed the show. Your ability to bring the motion picture and on stage performances together with impeccable timing in a heartfelt way was very impressive. We saw the play two years ago and had to see it again. We've decided to make it a yearly Christmas tradition, just as we've done for so many years with the movie"
—Bill, Sechelt

"So glad we went. Superb acting. Great sets. Good lighting and acoustics. Comfortable seats. Looking forward to more great events. Highly recommended"
—Brian, Kamloops

"What a wonderful performance! Everyone should go see "It's A Wonderful Life" at the Granville Island Stage. Puts you in the Christmas mood"
—Rosemary

"Fantastic family entertainment! My wife and our children (ages 16,14 and 8) greatly enjoyed the acting and the story…very well done. And to think that it was the fraction of a cost of a Canucks game!"
—Blair, West Vancouver

"We thoroughly enjoyed it! .…excellent acting!!"
—Elaine and Paul, Chilliwack


Praise for our 2010 production:

"Fabulous! A marvelous interpretation of a well loved favourite. The actors portrayed the characters almost as if it were the movie and that is a compliment indeed. I'll happily recommend this to my friends"
—Catherine, North Vancouver

"We saw this play on Friday, December 3rd and it was wonderful! We were a party of 4 including my son who had never been to a play and thought he would be bored. He loved it!! It was well acted and the stage set was good. The actor that plays Clarence looks just like the original actor in the movie! Great show"
—Cindy, Surrey

"It's a wonderful life! Pleasing & delightful. Enjoyed all the actors in this play. Dinner & play on Granville Island made for a excellent night"
—Betty, Burnaby

"Wondering how the play could be true to the classic movie? Wonder no more. With clips of the movie in the background, this was not a competition to the movie but a great compliment to it. Strong performances especially by "Clarence" (Bernard Cuffling). A thoroughly enjoyable evening!"
—Brian, Langley

"This was a fabulous performance!!! The actors were wonderful and the sets were stunning. We are so very excited to come back in the spring and enjoy another show"
—Michelle, Langley

"Amazingly, Magically, Breathtakingly Wonderful"
—Paul, Vancouver

"It was a fabulous play. I highly recommend you see it. I found it funny, sad, emotional and left with a new warmth in my heart"
—Cheryl, Vancouver

"It was a fabulous production. The acting and sets were amazing. Very easy to follow the story, even for my 9 year old. Loved the humour especially from Clarence! Keep up the good work!"
—Carol, Vancouver

"It was a wonderful, wonderful play. Thank you for a lovely evening"
—Catherine, Surrey

"One word. AWESOME!!!! It was truly magical. I was so impressed with all other actors and the production. The memory of this play will remain with me forever. Thanks for a wonderful night"
—Anonymous

"Having never seen the movie I was looking forward to this production. It was fabulous. I especially liked the use of the movie in the background. The actors were all very, very good. What a wonderful Clarence!!! Great story and I can't wait to actually see the movie now. Thank you Arts Club"
—Susan, Richmond

"It was an amazing show; entertaining to watch and moving!!"
—Candice, Abbottsford

"This is our favorite holiday movie! It is such a ' Wonderful' story and this is the first time we had seen it in a play version. Actually it’s the first time we have seen a play with the Arts Club. It was excellent. Very animated acting to such a charming story. Really enjoyed it and we have recommended to everyone we know"
—Nicole

"I wasn't sure I wanted to see this play when my wife suggested we go. I am a huge fan of the movie and I didn't want to be disappointed. I couldn't for the life of me figure out how they could take this classic Christmas movie which was very well written and put it on to the stage. Well we went with an open mind and I loved it. The adaptation is nothing short of brilliant. To tie the play to the movie using visuals from the movie was genius. I truly enjoyed the cast’s performance right down to the kids. I can see this becoming a Christmas tradition in my home. Thank you to all those involved for a wonderful Christmas memory and a job well done in the production of a wonderful script. It truly was a wonderful experience. OK, maybe I’m using the word wonderful too much but you should all know, like the movie, this play reminds me just how wonderful my life is"
—Rick, Langley

"Loved it. I am a subscription holder to Theatre Northwest in Prince George. I think our local theatre group is great but this production was awesome. I certainly would go back to your venue to enjoy another play anytime"
—Michelle, Prince George

"This is a heart-warming story that can be seen year after year and enjoyed equally each time. This year’s production was brilliantly played by all especially Kirsten Robek and Bob Frazer"
—Lisa, West Vancouver

"It was totally wonderful, as usual. You are doing such a good job. Thank you all very much"
—Maria, New Westminster

"I took my friend from Bermuda to see the play. We were both very impressed and thought that the stagecraft was so cleverly done. I remember seeing Alex Daikun many years ago on stage and when he was on Da Vinci's Inquest. It was great to see him in action again. Such great value to see the amazing talent Vancouver has"
—Sandi, Richmond

"What an awesome show! We were very entertained-it was heartwarming. Wonderful tie-ins to the movie. The actors were perfect for their roles. Thank you for putting us into the Christmas mood early (Nov. 21)!!"
—Gisela, Chillwack

"Absolutely excellent. Saw in New York several years ago with Brook Shields, and we enjoyed your production just as much"
—William

"What a wonderful way to start off the holidays. The cast and crew did a fabulous job"
—Cynthia, Coquitlam

"Amazing performance! It touched my heart"
—Christine, North Vancouver

"What a great production! We loved every minute of it but for us it was Clarence who stole the show. Thank you for getting our Christmas season off to such a great start. Can't wait for your next show"
—Diana, Vancouver


Praise for our 2009 production:

"Terrific story for the holiday season and a real family pleaser. Thanks, we'll all be back soon!"
—Ian, West Vancouver

"Bob Frazer was superb! His rigorous energy throughout the play was palatable in the audience. I loved his character! Also, the 'Angel' was cast beautifully. It was truly a wish come true when he got his wings! Great job all round by everyone. My family and I loved the play."
—Joan

"This is our third time and we absolutely loved it."
—Maria

"An original and great comedy for the whole family. They made it seem so real, it really draws your attention. the main character was very convincing and I felt that he (and all the other characters) were really into their characters....a must see. Romantic and funny"
—Dawn, Vancouver

"We went with good friends and all of us found the show was outstanding. Great performances by all the cast, especially Clarence!"
—Sharon, Surrey

"It was absolutely fabulous!!! Set decor was extremely well done, as well as the choice of actors for each role...Clarence, of course, was wonderful again. Kudos to you the 4 of us so enjoyed it, as we enjoyed white Christmas and Les Mis."
—Ann, Ladysmith

"Excellent - well acted - great set - nice intimate theatre - good family entertainment! I have been before and will come again. All of my dealings from ticket purchase to conclusion were professional."
—Catherine, Delta

"A wonderful performance. My daughter was dismayed that we couldn't stay for the evening performance the same day. The compromise was to rent the movie, but alas, the movie-Clarence was not nearly as engaging as yours. Well-done!"
—Lesley, Vancouver

"This is the 3rd year I've been to see this play. The first year I begged my 21 year old daughter to come with me, and we sat in the front row. Clarence sprinkled us with 'pixie dust' and since then we've made it a family tradition! This year we took along my son & his girlfriend, plus our partners. What a wonderful life! Thanks for doing such a great job year after year."
—Lori, Delta

"Truly enjoyable! I have recommended the show to others and will definitely see more shows in the future!"
—Angela, Burnaby

"It was a great performance by the entire cast! Clarence was the best angel!"
—Hayley, Burnaby

"Absolutely fantastic! Brilliant actors, beautiful set, and perfectly in sync with the film! I felt as though I had entered a dream for two hours and woke up with a happy sigh :) Keep up the great work. I will surely be back for another production in the near future."
—Tara, Delta

"I went to see this show with my husband and he cried 6 times and I did a few. It was a great act! Definitely a must see...I want to get my mom a ticket for Xmas and I'd love to go again."
—Lynda, North Vancouver

"What a great performance. This is a must see."
—Lisa, Langley

"I absolutely loved everything about the production. The actors were amazing, particularly the male who played George Bailey. I loved it so much that I sent my parents to see it!"
—Shannon, Langley

"An excellent performance and very good acting by all. A great festive thing to do. We started off with dinner at the Sandbar and ended with the play. It truly was a wonderful evening."
—Sandra

"Absolutely phenomenal! It was like watching the movie! Great production value and we really enjoyed the video integration. Simply put, the cast was amazing! Of course, Zuzu stole the show :) Thank you so much!"
—Justin, Vancouver

"Very heartwarming production. Loved the George Bailey actor."
—Dana, Delta

"I took the family (4 of us--2 parents, 2 kids ages 11 and 9) last Saturday night for a Christmas treat. I was unsure how the kids would like it. Wouldn't you know, they LOVED it. I have to say, it's the perfect presentation for the Christmas season, we all left feeling happy and upbeat. The actor who played George was outstanding, and Zuzu was of course adorable. A wonderful experience, can't wait to see Buddy Holly next!"
—Laura, Richmond

"We loved this play and we especially loved how they showed the original film in the background at times. The actors were all professional and we adored the children actors!"
—Teri, North Vancouver

"Nothing like a Christmas classic to get you in the holiday spirit. The whole family enjoyed it immensely. The weaving in and out of the original film footage significantly added to the richness of the performance and the set was spectacular!"
—Nancy, Vancouver

"Magical and inspiring!"
—Camila, Surrey

"Thoroughly enjoyed the play. Was particularly impressed with how part of the movie where played in the back as a back drop. Would recommend to anyone."
—Adriana, Surrey

"I was curious as to how they would manage to transfer the emotion in the movie to the stage, with limited resources. But to my surprise the whole production was fantastic. Had a great time. Keep up the great work. Thanks so much for a great night."
—Bernadette, Maple Ridge

"Being diehard fans of the film production it was with some skepticism that my daughter and I took our front row seats for the Arts Club's production of "It's a Wonderful Life" on Sat. We were relieved, delighted and impressed with the acting, staging and clever use of the original black and white film as occasional backdrop. Not a single favourite scene was left out, the kids delightful, and Clarence lovable. Atta boy, Arts Club; you've definitely earned your wings!"
—Pam, Vancouver

"A fabulous rendition of a holiday classic! I loved it, and especially enjoyed the little girl who played Zuzu - so cute!"
—Anonymous

"This show was so wonderful! My best friend and I went during our girls' weekend in Vancouver and both came away feeling so happy and joyful. We both cried and couldn't believe how well the show was cast...each character was portrayed by the PERFECT person! Little Zuzu was too adorable! Thank you for making our weekend extra special!"
—Stacy

"Just great. The acting was above and beyond what I expected. Thank you for helping me get in the christmas mood:)"
—Leanne, North Vancouver

"My wife and I had a thoroughly enjoyable experience - well acted, great sets and imaginative tie-in with the movie as a backdrop. Great entertainment."
—Ian, West Vancouver

"Excellent entertainment for the entire family with a moral story line that is on point and up lifting."
—Doug, West Vancouver

"Wonderful is right! Great casting, fantastic acting, lovely theme - just in time for Christmas and our 20th wedding anniversary."
—Myra


Praise for our 2007 and 2008 productions:

"This has always been my favorite Christmas movie and I have to tell you that "You guys did a fabulous job" .I took 2 friends and they also really enjoyed it ..Special congrats to "Clarence."
—Anonymous

"I was as smitten with this stage production as I have ever been with the movie, which I watch every single Christmas! I didn't know if I could be convinced, as I love the movie so much, but it was totally convincing, and the clever use of props/screen/multiple roles was completely acceptable. The actors were excellent in their roles, which again, I wasn't sure I could view with different faces, but it all worked! I didn't mind the necessary omissions, or the many staging changes. The whole production had the warmth and charm of the original, and I would love to see it every year, as a new tradition!"
—Paula, Delta

"We thought the production was fantastic. The casting was seamless, and the backdrop fulfilled any absence of dialogue. What a nice way to start feeling Christmasy!"
—Pat

"The most amazing production. Incorporating the original movie clips with the live action made it the best production I have seen in a long time. The actor who played Clarence and the actor who played George Bailey were excellent. Well done!"
—Cathie

"The cast, the sets and how the movie came to life on the stage went way beyond my expectations, truly a play worth seeing! A standing ovation to all the cast members for a high energy production. So nice to see Clarence with his wings!!"
—Barbara, Chilliwack

"What a great evening! It is amazing that a show written in the 50's(?) is still seen around the globe to packed houses. We brought our kids, well 20 and 17, and they also enjoyed it. Saw many young people in the audience which was great to see. You should all be congratulated on a giving us the little extra Christmas spirit that some of us need to be reminded of once in a while."
—The Turners, Coquitlam

"We took our daughters, and one of their boyfriends to the show and we all agreed that it was a fabulous production, greatly exceeding our already high expectations! One of our daughters is an actor in LA, and her boyfriend acts as well as writes, and they were both very impressed by the clever way the old movie and the play were adapted and performed! Thank you for a memorable evening and a special holiday memory!"
—Lura, Vancouver

"It was an amazing production as it carried on the tradition!! My mind and eyes never drifted once and I would see it again in an instant!"
—Robbie, Chilliwack

"My husband, son and I loved the play and I thought using the original movie footage was a great idea. We all loved the bridge!"
—Heather, Surrey

"What an exceptional production! The acting was flawless, the script and stage production was brilliant. I brought my husband and two young children. The children both loved it. My husband who was originally a pessimist, walked out surprised how well it was performed. It blew us all away. We'll be back again soon! Thank-you, thank-you, thank-you!"
—Janet, Vancouver

"It was an excellent production and the actor that played the guardian angel really made the show. Thank you for providing me with an excellent start to my own personal Christmas. See you again soon!!!!!!!!!!"
—Gitte, Surrey

"It's A Wonderful Life was a great way to start off our Christmas season. We had 15 of our family members from Chilliwack to Victoria meet at the Granville Island Stage to see the play. It was a very special day & the play was absolutely "Wonderful". We all loved how they incorporated the movie into the play."
—Sharon, Maple Ridge

"This production was probably one of the best we have ever seen! My husband and I have been to New York many times and seen alot of great plays but we felt the magic of this play to be one we will never forget. The creativity of the original movie with scenes of James Stewart, etc. in the background in black and white then implemented with the live cast was impeccably portrayed. We left the theatre with such a great spirit and the message the play sent was truly felt by all in attendance. We look forward to coming to many more plays at the Arts Club in the near future. Thankyou for giving us such a great experience."
—Debbie and Leen, West Vancouver

"Excellent production!! The acting was great. I brought my parents (in their 70s) and my 10 year old daughter...we were all entertained. The set designs and use of 'clips from the movie' were very clever."
—Nancy, Port Coquitlam

"We took our two girls ages 7 and 9 and they were entertained all the way through ! Definitely very close to the original if not almost identical!! Our girls really loved Clarence! We did too! Overall a great performance that paid great respect to the original show! Bravo!!"
—Sandra, Delta

"Our entire family LOVED "It's a Wonderful Life". I knew they would! My 10 yr old son was VERY unimpressed that I was making him go all the way to Granville Island to see a play that was going to be "boring" and where everyone was going to cry! Well, I knew if he just gave it a chance and saw it, he would love it. He did. I was very impressed and my husband was as well. My 13 yr old daughter loved it. As I had planned, it was a very nice way to spend Christmas Eve. We went home and watched the movie version on TV that night. The kids liked the play better. Thank you for a "wonderful" production. We will be back."
—Melanie, Langley

"Fantastic!, my husband and I stayed in town on Dec 22nd to take in the show. It definitely put us in the holiday spirit. At the end of the play I told my husband I actually had a few tears in my eyes. Even though I have seen the movie several times on TV, the play had a deeper impact on me."
—Colleen, Coquitlam

"Superb!!! Having watched the movie every year for nearly 40 years I didn't have high expectations. I was completely mesmerized and literally 'blown away' by the exceptional performances of the very talented group of actors. George Bailey, both young and old, was flawless. The sets and clever use of the movie as a backdrop added depth and reality to the play. I can't wait to enjoy another one of your most entertaining productions."
—Debbie

"One of the best adapted holiday treasures that I have ever seen!!
Loved the black & white film back drop, and the scenery changes were brilliant!!
Clarence stole the show, as well he should...Bravo!!"
—Avis, Victoria

"It was with a certain amount of trepidation that we attended the play, since the movie has been a personal and family favourite, and a "must see" movie every Christmas. We were delighted to see that the storyline was followed faithfully, while at the same time, great ingenuity was used to deal with scenes which are difficult to translate from film to stage. Just wonderful."
—Roy, Surrey

"It's a Wonderful Play! The casting was wonderful, the sets great especially the bridge and the background of the film, the extra touches (Potter meeting Clarence and seeing Clarence actually getting his wings) were lovely. When it was over, I said to my family - that was perfect! I hope you do it again next year, we will be there."
—Patty, North Vancouver

"We had a wonderful evening and thought that you guys were outstanding. The play was done sooooo well, we felt like we were watching the movie. Loved it and know we will be back to see more. We went last year to the Christmas Story and now this, can't wait to see next years. Thanks for a very special evening that we always remember."
—Christine and Nick, Vancouver

"My husband and I along with our son (age 18) and his girlfriend really enjoyed the production. We thought the sets were great and the main characters really strong. I loved Clarence!!"
—Bernadette

"Beautifully done! Stellar acting, thoughtful backdrops, and a lovely flow made this an enjoyable holiday experience. The actor playing the role of Clarence did an exceptional job in convincing us that he really is an angel!"
—Susan, North Vancouver

"Thought it was excellent, very well put together. It was my wife and I's very first play and we loved it..thank you so much. The actors were great!"
—Ruper, Surrey

"My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the production. We loved the way the actual movie footage was used in conjunction with the on stage actors and the acting was superb. Let's just say the tears in my eyes proved how much we appreciated the whole show. Thank you."
—Valerie, Langley

"It was absolutely amazing!!!! I don't remember when I saw a play as well done as this one. I thought I was watching a play in New York; the ultimate in praise!! Congratulations to everyone involved."
—Judith, Vancouver

"Very well done! Enjoyed the film clips, acting and story line. Very enjoyable, couldn’t think of anything that needs improvement"
—Christer, North Vancouver

"We loved every minute of this wonderful play. It was a delightful evening and such a perfect reflection of the season."
—Sherri, North Vancouver

"What a wonderful production ~ simple, yet effective sets were made even better by the onstage presence and chemistry of the players. The whole family loved it. Well done!"
—S., Vancouver

"Fantastic. Since I love the original movie so much I was afraid I'd be disappointed, but I wasn't disappointed at all. It was the perfect way to spend New Year’s Eve with a good friend. I hope It's a Wonderful Life will be showing next year!"
—Millie, White Rock

"Family thoroughly enjoyed it. Even my 17 year old Ipod infested son. Well done. PS I cried."
—Greg, Bowen Island

"Went to see the final performance with my girlfriend. It was kinda different going out to see a play and we had a lot of fun. The acting was great, particularly Clarence and Mr. Potter, and we had a great evening. Thanks Arts Club Theatre."
—Linus, Surrey

"It was wonderful. A faithful, but not slavish, adaptation of the beloved film version. The actors were all uniformly excellent."
—Oliver, New Westminster

"What a fantastic show! My fiancé and I came over from Victoria to take my parents to the play, and it was well worth the effort. We were all really impressed with the quality of the acting, and with the neat way the movie clips were incorporated into the show. Thanks for a wonderful day out!"
—Katherine, Victoria

"I thought it was wonderful! The actors were so good, sometimes it felt like I was actually there, feeling what they were experiencing. It was just great!"
—Susan, Langley

"It was great. Really enjoyed it. We liked the way the screen at the back was used in conjunction with the play. Hope you do it again next year."
—Karen, Langley

"Absolutely fantastic. My wife and I took both of our parents to see the show for Christmas and we had an amazing time. We will definitely come again!!"
—Glen

"Absolutely fantastic! So well done! Please bring it back next season. I'd see it again and have already recommended it to many who weren't lucky enough to see it this time around. I think it should tour, Christmas time or not."
—Virginia, North Vancouver

"Loved it. I liked the way scenes from the original movie were worked into the live production. Very clever."
—Jan, Vancouver

"I can't begin to tell you how amazed we were at your production "It's a Wonderful Life". It was the first production our 15 daughter has been to. Not seeing the movie, she was moved to tears at the end of your production. We loved the way you intergrated the old movie and the play together. The acting was far and above what we expected. Thank you so much!!"
—Julie

Behind The Scenes

LOL links for It’s a Wonderful Life

Little League champion graces Arts Club stage

Artistic team

By Philip Grecian
Based on the classic film by Frank Capra
Starring Lindsey Angell, Eileen Barrett, Hannah Brandon, Jennifer Clement, Bernard Cuffling, Bob Frazer, Rose Fulker, Kyle Jespersen, Raphael Kepinski, Jennifer Lines, David Marr, Andrew McNee, Sophia Millar, Aidan Wessels, Jordan Wessels, Alec Willows
Director Dean Paul Gibson
Set Designer Ted Roberts
Costume Designer Rebekka Sorensen
Lighting Designer Marsha Sibthorpe
Projection Designer Jamie Nesbitt
Sound Designer Neil Weisensel
Dramaturg Rachel Ditor
Stage Manager Pamela Jakobs
Assistant Stage Manager Sarah Pearson

Downloads

House Programme