USU Dept. of Theatre to Present Holiday Musical: 'It's a Wonderful Life'

LOGAN — The Utah State University Department of Theatre Arts will present its holiday musical, It’s A Wonderful Life, at the Caine Lyric Theatre at 7 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8 and at 1 p.m. Dec. 2.

“Whether or not you love musicals, I think everybody can respond to music,” Professional Guest Director Tarah Flanagan said, “and when you're in a room with live music, you're going to have a wonderful time.”

Both USU theater students and Cache County community members will be performing in this show.

“I love that the cast is intergenerational,” Flanagan said. “It's one of my favorite things about theater, that you have people with all different life experiences and professional experiences in the same space, bringing their energy and their wisdom together.”

According to the event website, this musical, based on the beloved 1946 film, faithfully follows George Bailey’s life from his childhood dreams to his midlife disappointments and beyond, as we all take a journey to discover whether his life has mattered at all. Cinematically scored and theatrically staged, this adaptation breathes musical life into a familiar story while retaining the warmth, humor and pathos of the original.

“I think people who know the film and love the film will be able to see many if not all of their favorite moments through a new lens,” Flanagan said, “And for people who don't know the story — I think this is a great show for people, all ages, all generations.”

Flanagan also said seeing this musical is a great family activity during the holiday season.

“It’s funny, it’s heartwarming, it’s moving, and ultimately it’s uplifting,” she said.

“For me, the piece is about the power of good,” said Richie Call, USU theatre interim department head & associate professor. “You know, the power that we really have to profoundly change somebody's life with a simple act of kindness.”

Call also said this show will be a great way to kick off the Christmas season for him and his family personally.

The book and lyrics for It’s A Wonderful Life are by Keith Ferguson, and the music is by Bruce Greer.

“Music reduces stress, it reduces anxiety, it builds empathy, it connects us to each other,” Flanagan said, “so I think you'll emerge from the evening uplifted and connected, even if you walked in a little lonely or stressed.”

Tickets to It’s A Wonderful Life are free to all USU students. They are $10 for youth (6-17) and seniors (65+). Tickets for adults (18+) are $15.

On the performance dates, there will be tables in the lobby of the Caine Lyric Theatre with information about community resources including local Christmas drives and emotional and mental health support.

Contact Richie Call, USU theatre interim department head & associate professor, at 435-797-3050 or richie.call@usu.edu with questions.