A busy weekend forced me to see Ocean State Theatre Company’s holiday musical treat “It’s a Wonderful Life” in a preview performance.

Preview performances, by the way, are a good way to see a play a day or two before it officially opens. The cast has completed rehearsals and is ready to perform before a live audience. The director is watching carefully, taking notes, and will meet with the cast and crew to possibly tighten loose ends.

I didn’t see much in the need for improvements in the performance, as the large cast of over two dozen sang, danced and acted out the familiar story of George Bailey’s life and the effect it had on the citizens of Bedford Falls.

Based on the 1946 movie, with book and lyrics by Keith Ferguson and music by Bruce Greer and directed by Amiee Turner, “It’s a Wonderful Life” is just what the doctor ordered to lift your spirits and get you in the holiday mood.

I won’t bother telling you the story. If you haven’t seen it when it opened in 1946 (I did), you must have watched it at least one of the years it has been shown in prime time every Christmas season.

Kevin Cerone makes a fine George Bailey, although it is difficult not comparing him with Jimmy Stewart, while Jef Canter hams it up a bit as Clarence, his guardian angel.

The songs do a nice job of moving the familiar story along. Voices are fine, with Melissa McKamie as George’s sweetheart, then wife, showing the most talent.

Once again Turner has reached far and wide to assemble the cast, using a few locals to round out the ensemble. Leading the supporting cast is Tom Gleadow, who makes a sympathetic Uncle Billy.

When George’s dreams of traveling to Europe, returning to attend college and then “building things” are stymied at every turn, and when his savings and loan takes a big hit, he sees only one way out. But as you recall, Clarence comes to his rescue, and the classic scene showing him what the town would be like if he never existed is played out.

“It’s a Wonderful Life” covers all the emotional bases, including sacrifice, regret, caring, love and finally, on Christmas Eve, the true meaning of Christmas.

Is this all a little old-fashioned for today’s audiences? Perhaps, but maybe it’s OK to be old fashioned.

“It’s a Wonderful Life” is at Ocean State Theatre Company through December 27. Call 921-6800 for reservations. This is a suitable show for the entire family.