A vibrant young cast, a lead that’s new to theater, a beautiful set – the culmination can only be Choate’s holiday production, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Directed by Tracy Ginder-Deleventhal, the play is set in Bedford Falls, New York during the early 1900’s to mid-1900’s. It follows the life of a banker, George Bailey, played by Ryan Geddes ‘09, as he contemplates his life full of love, accomplishment, and ending it all in a moment of despair. The performance is scheduled for November 30th through December 2nd.

Geddes ‘09, a new sophomore, is new to the theater world, yet an amazing fit for the role of George Bailey. His wife, Mary, is played by Meredith Mosbacher ‘07. The cast also consists of a battalion of underclassmen. Faculty children are also cast to play the roles of Bailey’s children. Assistant Director and Assistant Stage Manger, Jen Bashian ‘08 comments, “Although the cast on the whole is very young, their youthful energy brings a lot to the dynamic of the ensemble. It is such a loving and thoughtful group.” Tessa Sacramone ‘08 adds, “Many of us are having new experiences on stage, and it’s great that everyone is participating together and take risks. Through these experiments and personal sharing, we have bonded and will continue to grow as actors and individuals.”

The cast isn’t the only exciting part. The set, an important element of a good show, features several exciting components. The set is designed by Ken Rooney, who has designed many set for Choate productions. Built by Leslie Hammond, the new technical director, the set includes s a 20 foot revolve. Hammond explains, “This is basically a circular platform that pivots in the middle and turns around to reveal different scenery. A revolve is a very effective way to create multiple locations on stage. On top of the revolve, there are walls, stairs, and platforms that create three major locations in the play: a bank, an old two-story house, and a bridge.” The set will also have projections on large screens, two separate roll-on platforms, and even a fake swimming pool.

“It’s a Wonderful Life” is a play based on the importance of love and amity, Tessa Sacramone ‘08 stresses the importance “of the audience as well as the actors to believe that love and amity are what ultimately get us through our “wonderful” lives. Even though the play takes place during the beginning to mid-1900’s, anyone during any year can take from the play the message.” Alex Lundgren ’09, who plays the servant of an antagonist, sums up the moral: “No man is a failure who has no friends.”