Manchester Theatre News & Reviews

REVIEW - A Christmas Carol is a magical, heartwarming celebration for all ages

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On Friday, we were invited to the Octagon Theatre in Bolton to see A Christmas Carol. Read what our reviewer Andrea Horrocks had to say about this enjoyable family production...

Many of us first encountered A Christmas Carol and Scrooge’s story as children, it may have been the book, a film or a theatre performance that you remember but certain moments stay with us, it may be the fondness for one of Dickens’ unforgettable characters, a fear of the ghosts and rattling chains, the joy of Christmas spirit, or memories of singing along with the Muppets. This is a tale that holds a deep emotional connection for so many, including myself. I therefore felt particularly fortunate this evening to settle in at The Octagon Theatre to be whisked away to Victorian England for an unforgettable, upbeat, joy-filled adaptation of A Christmas Carol and I wasn’t disappointed. Director, Sarah Tipple’s vibrant, magical, joyous adaptation will leave you feeling thankful, bursting with Christmas spirit.

I’m not sure A Christmas Carol needs much introduction, but for those who may have missed it, the story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly, penny-pinching old man who embarks on a magical journey one Christmas Eve when he is visited by four ghosts, the first being his late business partner. Their purpose is to show Scrooge the error of his ways and confront him with the consequences of his choices. But will their intervention be enough to lead him to redemption?

There have been so many different adaptations of A Christmas Carol over time that you can be forgiven for allowing the scenes which belong to Dickens’ text blur with those which have been added or embellished. Kate Ferguson and Susanna Pearse’s modernised family adaptation uses the key moments from Dickens’ story but transposes some scenes and adds new touches of its own giving the story a fresh perspective. Susanna Pearse’s music and lyrics are key in this version and are powerful throughout lifting the tone to appeal to a family audience. You are treated with lively songs which will have you clapping along as well as more poignant, heartfelt ones.

Hannah Wolfe’s set is simple, yet impactful, clever use of the round theatre and well-placed furniture paired with Simeon Miller’s ambient and atmospheric lighting set the mood and tone beautifully. From the opening scene we are transported to Victorian England, however, this is a production that brings in the new with the old, modern costumes and props are woven into the period setting, creating a fusion which feels fresh while still honouring the classic tale. The bright, neon, modern costumes serve as a stark contrast to Scrooge’s sombre attire and the brightly coloured banner raised above our heads for Fezziwig’s vibrant party.

Dave Birell’s (Educating Rita, Talking Heads, An Enemy of the People) Ebenezer Scrooge although less intimidating than you may expect is entirely believable. Birell perfectly pitches the character, balancing Scrooge’s miserly traits with humour that keeps him engaging throughout. Since this Scrooge feels less intimidating I wondered if the transformation would be less impactful but absolutely not - Birell digs deeper and brings even more energy to the role delivering an unmistakable, satisfying transformation.

Except for Dave Birell’s Scrooge, each cast member delivers multiple roles with impressive ease. This is a remarkable cast of just five plus two talented youth members, every performer is outstanding and when they all come together on the stage the energy is vibrant and infectious. This production is fast paced yet they handle their multiple roles brilliantly keeping the show flowing without feeling chaotic.

Scrooge’s first ghostly encounter strikes the perfect balance between humour and unease, Marley played by William Donaldson (Witness for the Prosecution, Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest) appears to Scrooge in a surprising way and cleverly manages to be both serious and playful as he drags himself around the stage with his heavy chains. Donaldson also plays Bob Cratchit, Scrooge’s underpaid and overworked clerk, he delivers the character with joy and warmth making him instantly likeable.

Fezziwig’s party immediately lifts the audience’s sprits; it’s a joyous scene with a catchy song and some actions that invite audience participation. Fezziwig’s character serves to contrast with Scrooge, he is a generous, compassionate employer who throws a Christmas party every year and is played by Conor Neaves (Saint George and the Dragon, The Jungle Book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar). Neaves does a fabulous job of conveying Fezziwig’s warmth and kindness a quality which he also brings to his role as Fred making his sincerity at wanting to spend Christmas with Scrooge entirely believable.

The golden, sparkly cloak of the Ghost of Christmas Past was the costume I envied, I would love one as my Christmas Day outfit! Hannah Brown brought magic to the stage in abundance, playing the part of the Ghost of Christmas Past in a gentle yet powerful way enchanting the audience by magically lighting lanterns around the stage, glowing at the Spirit’s command. Brown exudes positivity in her role of Fan which contrasts perfectly with her brother Scrooge’s bleak outlook on life.

Lucy Keirl (Murder for Two, The 39 Steps, Much Ado About Nothing) plays both Belle and the Ghost of Christmas Present. Keirl explodes onto the stage on a scooter as the Ghost of Christmas Present and launches into an extremely energetic rock song about Pudding, this spirit loves pudding! The dynamic between her and Scrooge is fabulous with a perfect mix of humour, side glances and playful timing that keeps the audience laughing and engaged. As Belle, Scrooge’s finance Keirl brings spark and sensitivity, we are offered a glimpse into what might have been if Scrooge had made different choices.

The themes presented in A Christmas Carol are just as relevant today as they were in Dickens’ time and what better moment to reflect on them than with this uplifting performance, a reminder of the Christmas spirit, being thankful, thinking of others and embracing generosity and kindness.

A Christmas Carol is a magical, heartwarming celebration for all ages. This is not the brooding, scary version, it is designed with families in mind, its fun, joyous nature combined with the traditional elements of the story, comical characters and perfect balance of seriousness and humour make it thoroughly enjoyable for everyone. I urge you to head to The Octagon this Christmas and immerse yourself in sparkle, festive fun and this timeless story.

WE SCORE A CHRISTMAS CAROL...