Living in Portland

The Portland Center Stage Theater is currently presenting ‘This Wonderful Life’ and adaptation from the famous Jimmy Stewart film.  I took my two daughters and a friend (12 and 15) last night to expose them to some culture.  Much to my surprise (and theirs) the play was a single act with all parts played by one man.  More of a really talented storyteller than a play.  The set and the sound effects were wonderful, but the actor who could switch between speaking as a small child to a grumpy old man and then back to George in a matter of seconds was truly amazing. 

The audience was mostly mature with my girls being the youngest that I noticed.  My 12 year old was bored but my 15 year old loved it.  She was able to appreciate the talent on stage and had never heard the story before.  Her 15 year old friend liked it but wasn’t all that excited.  At just one hour and fifteen minutes, it is one of the shorter performances we have attended.  As for me, I enjoyed it but wouldn’t classify it as a must see.  Probably not enough action for the younger set.