It's a Wonderful (One Man Show) Life!"

Comic actor/impressionist Jason Grossman performs a live solo adaptation of Frank Capra's classic film, Its a Wonderful Life." A minimal set and atmospheric lighting allow Grossman to create every scene in Bedford Falls, morphing through everyone from Annie to Zuzu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   THEATER REVIEWS/LISTINGS
October 30, 2001   PRESS CONTACT: SHARON (212) 677-2770

ITS A WONDERFUL (ONE MAN SHOW) LIFE!
A solo performance by Jason Grossman
Directed by Sharon Fogarty
Lighting by Charles Moran
at Manhattan Theatre Source
177 MacDougal St., (between Waverly Pl. & West 8th St.)
Saturdays: November 3, 10, 17, 24 & December 8, 15, 22, 29
Please note there is no performance December 1st
All performances 4:00 P.M., Admission $10
Reservations & Info: 212.501.4751

Comic actor/impressionist Jason Grossman performs a live solo adaptation of Frank Capra's classic film, Its a Wonderful Life." A minimal set and atmospheric lighting allow Grossman to create every scene in Bedford Falls, morphing through everyone from Annie to Zuzu. Highly recommended for IAWL fanatics, George Baileys hardships (compromised dreams of youth, financial ruin and suicide) are explored intimately in this close-up rendition, as is the conclusion when Bailey discovers triumphantly the value of his life and his beloved community support. The endearing angel, Clarence, who Grossman portrays impeccably, illuminates these fast-paced scenes based on Capras original camera angles.

Recommended for all ages, and excellent holiday fare, Its a Wonderful (One Man Show) Life is a lively, accurate yet inventive interpretation of the tale based on The Greatest Gift, an original short story first written on a Christmas card by Philip Van Doren Stern. Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett and Frank Capra then wrote the screenplay, with additional scenes by Jo Swerling. Uncredited for their work on the script were Dorothy Parker, Dalton Trumbo, and Clifford Odets.

Its a Wonderful (One Man Show) Life premiered last year at NYCs Horsetrade Studio Theatre and was acclaimed by IAWL aficionados as well as those unacquainted with the film, especially children. This 8-week run is interrupted only for one week for its Seattle debut.

Jason Grossman (Solo Performer and IAWL fanatic) is the founder and director of Funny... Sheesh Alternative Variety Shows, a not-for-profit venue for non-commercial, alternative performance comedy, dance, music and theatre. Most recently, Jason portrayed Dr. Frankenstein in Fogarty's Bride of Frankenstein ~ An Experiment In Intimacy. He co-starred as the angel, Phil, in the International Fringe Festival production of 'heaven and played the human lab rat, Freddie, in Fogarty's acclaimed The Overdevelopment of Scott. A founding member of the sketch groups Euphobia and Evil Twin, Jason now tours regularly with Improv Central. Additional writing credits include TV Land's Ultimate Fan Search and numerous sketches for Funny... Sheesh and cable's Laugh Tracks.

Director/Adapter Sharon Fogartys recent credits include Bride of Frankenstein ~ an experiment in intimacy (Estrogenius 2001 Festival), Next to Nothing, (NY Fringe 2001), The Wise Sophia, Santangelo Rising and The Overdevelopment of Scott. Sharon has toured as a performer with Loos Scroos, Meredith Monk, Ping Chong, Doug Elkins, Sarah Sugihara and Imago Mask Theatre Ensemble. She is a two-time recipient of the Workspace for Choreographers Grant and will publish her first collection of plays this Spring 2002.

"A guaranteed laugh riot." TIME OUT NEW YORK
"Mr. Grossman brings an amazing energy and love as he unleashes an array of characters and accents for the adaptation of this Christmas Classic. There is a controlled intensity that gives you the unique sensation that you are watching a man who undeniably enjoys his work. Not only does he enjoy his work, but his performance is outstanding." ITSRANDOM.COM
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For more information:
http://funnysheesh.tripod.com/home/id10.html