Since 1946, It’s a Wonderful Life has been a classic Christmas Tale: hardworking George Bailey who doesn't realise how much of a difference he makes in the small town that he lives in. It is a story full of love, hope, happiness and warmth and it never fails to put a smile on every face. And now, all through the winter the ENO is putting on a fantastic production of the time-honoured story in operatic form. 

 

The story follows a Mr George Bailey, who when we first meet him is preparing to leave for college, after which he plans to travel the world to see all the great sights that he could never hope to see in the small town where he lives. But after tragic events strike the family, he is forced to give his brother his college money and stay to look after the family business. Through the course  of the film we watch as he misses out on more trips and even his honeymoon as he puts other people before himself. And throughout all of this, watching over him is his guardian angel Clarence (or in the case of the opera version, Clara) who is determined to help him so he can achieve his wings. 

 

With a gorgeous soundtrack and wonderful vocals, the ENO brings this story to life. Music fills the theatre as the angels sing, and one can’t help but feel as if they were completely immersed in the story. The songs are all in English and helpful subtitles illuminate anything you might not understand. And as the cast come out for their final bow, the audience can’t help but feel like they want to go back and watch the whole thing all over again.