6 AMERICAN BLUES THEATER GW: What was your biggest fear playing the iconic “George Bailey”? JL: Capra serves a parable of hope for the good person; it's scary to be honored with the telling. [I have to focus on] being true to the spirit of the character and serving the story and not allowing myself to be overwhelmed or distracted by a desire to "be worthy" of the icon. This is a love story. We change the world where we touch it. KK: Living up to everyone's expectations. For years and generations, people have an image and a voice associated with that character. How do I make it my own with a flavor of what they also expect? ZK: I didn't grow up with “It's a Wonderful Life”. It wasn't a part of my personal holiday ritual. Being a part of the show, however, has given me a chance to enjoy this story and be a part of a favorite Christmas tradition to so many. It is an iconic piece of Americana, and there is no more worthy Christmas message than the one at the heart of this story. American Blues’ production invites a sense of community, gratitude, faith, and hope in the face of life's struggles. Jim and Kevin have left quite a legacy in sharing this story with so many Chicago families. More than fear of “getting it wrong”, I am simply hoping upon hope that I’ll be able to fit into audiences’ well-formed holiday tradition. It’s certainly become a favorite aspect of my own. What is your favorite moment or line from the production? JL: The line "That's a Christmas present from a very dear friend of mine." KK: There are so many, but Zuzu's petals scene stands out for me. The innocence of Zuzu's world combined with the catastrophic world that George is living at that moment — it's wonderful and complex. I also like the line "Well you look like the kind of angel I'd get..." Poor George. ZK: My favorite moment in the production is the "Soldier Spotlight”. While most of these folks probably prefer to stay out of the limelight, I think it's incredibly important that we celebrate their service to our country. Military service is woven into the fabric of the story., so it's only fitting that we hold a moment to pause and reflect on what that means—in a personal way. When we recall the stories and honor their service, we recommit ourselves to doing everything we can to thank them for everything they have done for us. At the holidays, I think this is an especially important time to thank the men and women who have served out country. Between Jim and Kevin, you’ve both played “George Bailey” for 12 years on our stage. What advice do you have for Zach? JL: Have fun. Open your heart and jump in. KK: Make it your own while honoring the George Bailey that the audience expects. Keep it pure, innocent, and real every moment, every night because there is a little bit of “George” in all of us and many who need this story that night. Don't let them down THREE GENERATIONS OF GEORGE BAILEY Artistic Director Gwendolyn Whiteside interviews three of the actors—Jim Leaming, Kevin Kelly, and Zach Kenney—who have played “George Bailey” in American Blues Theater’s It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! “George Bailey” Actors Jim Leaming, Kevin Kelly, and Zach Kenney