Mischief’s comedy crew are back and better than ever in their latest rendition of A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong at the Apollo Theatre. Directed by Matt DiCarlo, the story follows the fictional Cornley Drama Society in their attempt to re-create Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale, with hilariously chaotic consequences. In a style like Mischief’s other Goes Wrong shows, which have firmly cemented them as comedic geniuses, we see the original Mischief team reunited, including Nancy Zamit, Greg Tannahill, Chris Leask, Jonathan Hall, and Henry Lewis, joined by Sasha Frost, Daniel Fraser, and Matt Cavendish.
We see some familiar characters from the Goes Wrong franchise return, including Chris, Robert, Nancy, and Dennis. Getting to see these characters in a different setting but as funny as ever was truly an enjoyable watch. Without spoiling any of the fun, this group really knows how to put on a show, with clever details throughout that tie the jokes and running gags together. A real highlight was when Tiny Tim came to the stage, leaving audience members in fits of laughter.
A shoutout must go to Nancy Zamit as Annie, whose performance as The Ghost of Christmas Past is hilarious; her physical comedy is just sensational. Jonathan Sayer shined as the adorably dim-witted Dennis, whose difficulty remembering his lines is one of the best moments in the show. Matt Cavendish also offered a stellar performance as Max, who is tasked with playing multiple characters simultaneously and perfectly delivers his lines as the chaos continues.
In true Mischief fashion, everything, of course, does not turn out as planned, and all the gags are so well thought out and well timed, avoiding any awkward pauses. Libby Todd’s set design certainly needs praise, clever, detailed, but truly letting the actors shine is what a brilliant set is all about and Todd’s truly does just that. Another mention must go to the stage management team; making things go wrong in the right way is not an easy feat, but they do a remarkable job of bringing the show together with the endless cues and effects, executing everything perfectly.
For longtime fans of Mischief, you’ll love the new twists, turns and gags of their latest show. For those a little less familiar, if you fancy some festive fun with plenty of comedic chaos that is bound to leave you laughing, Christmas Carol Goes Wrong is the show to watch this winter. You certainly won’t be disappointed.
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong is currently playing at the Apollo Theatre for a limited seven week run. For more information and to buy tickets: https://www.mischiefcomedy.com/our-work/christmas-carol-goes-wrong/
Reviewer: Gemma Prince
Reviewed: 14th December 2025
North West End UK Rating: