MONMOUTH — Steve Murray’s adaptation of Frank Capra’s holiday classic “It’s a Wonderful Life” will return to Theater at Monmouth. With its hilariously touching message of hope and love, “This Wonderful Life” reminds us of the power of perspective, family, and community just in time for the holiday season.

After his acclaimed performance in 2012, audience-favorite Mike Anthony will return to reprise more than two-dozen iconic characters from the beloved film. Anthony embodies Clarence the Angel, Mary, Old Man Potter, and the rest of Bedford Falls’ finest citizens, while also serving as narrator, offering amusing commentary on George Bailey’s journey to discover that the actions of one person really can make a difference in the world. This humorous adaptation celebrates the warmth of the season and the belief that hard work, fair play, and love of one’s family and community is truly its own “wonderful” reward.

Regarded as a holiday classic around the world, Frank Capra’s 1946 film “It’s a Wonderful Life” is based on Philip Van Doren Stern’s 1939 short story “The Greatest Gift.” The film stars James Stewart as George Bailey, a man who has given up his dreams in order to help others, and whose imminent suicide on Christmas Eve brings about the intervention of his guardian angel, Clarence.

Clarence shows George all the lives he has touched and how different life in his community would be had he never been born. “It’s a Wonderful Life” was nominated for five Academy Awards and has been recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the 100 Best Films Ever Made.

“This Wonderful Life” features Mike Anthony as narrator and all the inhabitants of Bedford Falls and beyond; directed by Dawn McAndrews with set and lights by Jim Alexander, stage management by Kathleen Nation, and sound design by Rew Tippin.

Performances start with a preview and special ticket prices of $10 at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 28, followed by the opening performance at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29. Additional performance dates are Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 5, 6, and 7, at 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7, and 8 at 1 p.m. Ticket prices range from $20-$30. For calendar and reservations, call 207-933-9999 or visit www.theateratmonmouth.org.

Bring non-perishable food items to donate to Monmouth and Winthrop food pantries.