It’s a charming festive tale that has stood the test of time – 50 years to be exact!
And as Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas takes to the Berry Theatre stage to celebrate the major milestone, it is easy to see why.
Sat with my very excited three-year-old, who for the first year is really coming to understand the magic of Christmas, the not-so-jolly Santa grumbled onto stage to capture our festive hearts.
While he isn’t your stereotypical Father Christmas filled with seasonal spirit, he quickly enchanted the audience with his moaning and groaning as he undertook his December chores, ready for the biggest night of his year.
This stage show of the children’s classic, which is written by the author of The Snowman, is co-produced by the Lyric Hammersmith with Olivier Award-nominated Pins & Needles, and didn’t fail to transport us into the world of this rather gloomy but still magical Santa.
His grumbles of Bloomin’ this and bloomin’ that hides his warm heart, which you get a glimpse of when his pet cat and dog appear on stage.
His pets were certainly a hit with my son, who giggled away when poor Father Christmas was trying to wrestle his boot from his four-legged friend, depicted with beautifully talented puppetry.
The scenes where Father Christmas takes to his sleigh with his reindeer really brought a sense of magic to the stage, cleverly making us all believe they were soaring high across the world to deliver presents, even to Buckingham Palace!
It is a little sad when you see him sit down for his Christmas dinner alone, left to pull a cracker on his own, but he doesn’t seem bothered and enjoys some festive fun as he gives his pets their presents before bed.
Special mention must go to the musician Hazel, who is on stage throughout the show, hidden away in a cosy loft. Her timing with the sound effects were impeccable and she showcased so much skill as she moved from one instrument to another with ease. We all left captivated by how talented she was.
I was a little worried that my son may not sit and watch for the whole show, but he was mesmerised throughout.
This is a charming show for all ages, with little jokes for the adults peppered throughout, and one that is bound to bring you some festive cheer this Christmas.
* Runs until December 31. For tickets and more information, visit theberrytheatre.co.uk
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