Oh, George Bailey. A heroic, self-sacrificing, and a generally likable fellow. It's nearly impossible not to feel empathy (or resonance) with the dashed dreams and settling for second place for the sake and betterment of others. Unfortunately George is unable to continue saving those less fortunate due to the greed and deceit of Mr. Potter and struggles with how to end the futility he feels. His guardian angel, Clarence, is given the job to somehow show George just how wonderful his life truly is and save him from doing something rash.

Not many (IF any) audience members will show up to Tacoma Little Theatre without having seen the classic Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore version directed by Frank Capra. It's practically mandatory holiday viewing and is designed to tug on heartstrings and fill the audience with holiday cheer. There isn't much different than the film version expect the chronology of how the story unfolds. Clarence and his superior act as narrators to cover information that isn't shown as easily without film making techniques.

Tacoma Little Theatre uses a large cast of actors who are mostly new to the TLT stage. While a few of the actors have one or two shows under their belts the majority have appeared on other stages in the Puget Sound. Many create characters that are (mostly) subtly stylized to fit with the era of the story. Tom Birkeland portrays Mr. Potter and seems the most nuanced and natural. His grumpiness and distaste of George's principles and integrity are a great contrast to George's idealism and passion. Kirsten Deane is charming as Mary, George's wife. As Mary she exudes a positivity that matches George's energy as she tries to temper his desire for attaining something more than his town can offer. Dan Lysne handles George Bailey's range of emotions well. While not as frantic and desperate as Jimmy Stewart's embodiment, Lysne still manages to captures the torment and despair of George.

As always, TLT's technical aspects of the performance are great. The set is simple but effective while beautiful and the costumes are fantastic. The lighting and sound were great and added to the story telling. The only technical aspect that was missed was toward the end when the "Pawn Shop" sign wasn't changed back to "Bailey's Savings and Loans" which was most likely an opening night oversight.

The holidays abound with stories of redemption whether from divine intervention or just through the kindness of mankind. Tacoma Little Theatre's production of It's a Wonderful Life has a bit of both and between the plot and the carolers that sing throughout, is sure bring on holiday spirit and cheer.

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, through Dec. 22, Tacoma Little Theatre, 210 N. I St., Tacoma, $15-$22, 253.272.2281

LINK: Holiday Events Calendar

LINK: South Sound Holiday Command Center