The Last Page
"It Could Have Been a Wonderful Life"
by Andrew Wright
Staff Writer

Synopsis:

Comedian Fred Raker performs with his characteristic brand of politically incorrect humor.

"It Could Have Been A Wonderful Life" is a one-man comedy about one man's attempt to come to terms with some serious identity issues. Phil Resnick is an aspiring comedian from Syracuse, New York, whose routines include Maxwell Smart as a mohel and Woody Allen as the host of the nature program, "Wild Rabbis." Trouble arises when Phil's father urges him to be more like his idol Jack Benny, who was funny but without being "too Jewish" (Jack did Christmas episodes on his radio and TV programs). This conflict haunts Phil all the way to Hollywood, where he fails to make it. He then returns home to Syracuse where he finds success hosting a senior talent show on the local public TV station. But a comedian friend's stardom on a dreadful hit network show causes Phil to think he's a failure again. He's rescued by his guardian angel (Jack Benny), who shows Phil what his life would've been like had he not left Hollywood.

Review:
Written and Performed by Fred Raker, "It Could Have Been A Wonderful Life," is inspired by both the classic holiday film and Raker's own life. Raker proves to be an amazing actor and impersonator, performing 25 unforgettable roles. Among them, you will recognize and Johnny Carson, Woody Allen, and Jackie Mason. His impressions of a Yiddish speaking John Wayne will have you rolling. The show is 75 minutes of energy and politically incorrect laughter. A definite must see.

Location and Times:
Bannam Place Theater,
50A Bannam Pl. San Francisco 415- 986-4607. Fri-Sat, 8pm; Sun, 3pm. Through December 30, 2002. $15-20.
Tickets at Ticketweb.com For more information: www.wonderfullife.org

Page last modified on Wednesday, 01-Mar-2006 23:50:45 MST.