A Christmas Carol Theatre Show Review
By Jake Freeman
With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to deck the halls and pay a visit to the ‘Comedy Theatre’ for the timeless classic, A Christmas Carol.
Based on the 1843 novella by Charles Dickens, who reportedly wrote the story in just six weeks, tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, the cold-hearted, resentful, and selfish businessman who despises Christmas and those who embrace it. He rudeness extends to refusing to give to charity, even at the Holy time of year. Over the course of Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come.
After their visits, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, gentler man, seeking redemption, and embracing the festive season.
Upon arriving at the ‘Comedy Theatre’ on opening night, it was clear that the festive season was truly amongst us. Many audience members arrived dressed in bright festive colours and the theatre was adorned with beautifully lit Christmas trees. Musicians on stage played festive melodies before the show started, while actors in Old Victorian costume were freely handing out mini mince pies and mandarins.
Erik Thomson plays Scrooge, joining a long list of actors to have played the miser, ranging from Michael Caine to Jim Carrey. Thomson is simply amazing as Scrooge, owning the stage at every turn, even to the point of overshadowing his co-stars.
Kaya Byrne is entertaining, providing plenty of comic relief as Scrooge’s nephew, Fred. As the spirits of Christmas, Alison Whyte, Samantha Morley and Aisha Aidara were also mesmerising in their performance.
Anthony Cogin plays the dual role of Scrooge’s cold father and as his late former business partner Jacob Marley who visits Scrooge in his ghostly form. But it was Mira Feldman as Tiny Tim who stole the show towards the end of the second Act, earning plenty of “awes” from the audience.
What made this the production really work was the clever set design, lighting, and the costumes, helping to transform the stage into 19th century London, even employing a snow machine.
There was a feeling of Harry Potter when observing the stage setup which is not surprising given Matthew Warchus directed the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child play.
Sound director Simon Baker deserves a special mention of for excellent use of sounds and effects that added to the believability of the show’s time period. Finally, the music throughout was splendid, including the songs sung, including classics like “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and “Silent Night, Holy Night”.
Even though you have probably seen ‘A Christmas Carol’ a million times by now, the talent from this cast and this enchanting production makes it all the worthwhile to see it that one extra time and celebrate the story while being together with loved ones at this special and Holy time of year. It is one of the few musicals that stands the test of time and can be both enjoyed and appreciated across all ages.
The show is conceived and directed by Matthew Warchus and is based on a version by Jack Thorne.
A Christmas Carol is now playing for a limited season until 29 December at the Comedy Theatre located at 240 Exhibition Street, a short walk from Parliament Station. It is suitable for all ages 8+.
The show runs for 2 hours including a 20-minute intermission.
To learn more about the show and purchase tickets, go to https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=CHRISCAR24
