“Remembering the Timeless Truth: You Can’t Take It with You”
OU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU is a timeless comedy that delves into the themes of individuality, love, and living life by one’s own rules. Originally premiering in Philadelphia in 1936, the play made its way to Broadway, where it enjoyed a successful run of 838 performances and went on to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1937. The play was later adapted into a film in 1938, directed by Frank Capra and starring acclaimed actors such as James Stewart, Jean Arthur, and Lionel Barrymore. The film even secured the Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Director in 1938. Over the years, YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU has seen several revivals on Broadway, featuring talented actors like Jason Robards, Colleen Dewhurst, Eddie Albert, and Eva Gabor, all contributing to the enduring appeal of Kaufman’s and Hart’s original work.
In the Morgan-Wixson Theatre’s 2026 production, the play is set in the 1930s during the Great Depression, centering around the eccentric Vanderhof-Sycamore-Carmichael family residing in New York City. Led by the quirky Grandpa Vanderhof, played by Carl Weintraub, the family consists of individuals with peculiar interests and unconventional lifestyles. Amidst the chaos, the only semblance of normalcy is Grandpa’s granddaughter, Alice Sycamore, portrayed by Abigail Stewart, who falls in love with Tony Kirby, the son of her conservative boss. As the two families collide, the difference in their values and lifestyles becomes increasingly apparent, leading to comedic misunderstandings and unexpected revelations.
Under the adept direction of Cate Caplin, the play unfolds with a talented ensemble of 19 actors, each adding their unique flair to the production. The comical situations escalate, culminating in a series of uproarious events that keep the audience engaged and entertained throughout. The set design by Bill Wilday, lighting, costumes by Michael Mullen, and sound effects create an immersive experience, transporting the audience to 1930s New York City and capturing the essence of the era.
YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU ultimately celebrates the importance of love, acceptance, and embracing individuality, despite the challenges and chaos that life may throw our way. Through the lens of the eccentric Vanderhof-Sycamore-Carmichael family, the play delivers a heartwarming message about the value of family, relationships, and the beauty of being true to oneself. With its timeless themes and relatable characters, YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU continues to resonate with audiences, captivating hearts and minds for generations to come.