It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what a better way to get yourself into the Christmas spirit than immersing yourself in one of the best loved Christmas tales which has stood the test of time, Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol. Wonderfully produced and directed by Charlotte Holguin.
Thingwall Players have yet again produced a magical and captivating show that will engage adults and children alike. This company really do prove that you don’t need the grand sets and huge venues to produce excellent theatre. Their set (Robert Bowes) was a simple yet multifunctional space. Props (Caroline Doyle, Hayley Jeffrey and Laura Powell) were adaptable and reused for many different purposes.
A cast of dynamic and versatile characters take you on this journey through London in the 1700s. Meeting your favourites from the tale such as the wonderfully down to earth and kind natured Bob Cratchit (Kevin Thomas) and his wholesome family, not forgetting the frail but cheerful Tiny Tim (Emma Laurie). Along the way we also encounter the hearty Mr Fezziwig (Stephen Walsh) and of course Fred (Connor Jones), the loyal and persistent nephew of our main character.
Onto the man himself, Ebanezer Scrooge, perfectly portrayed by Zoran Blackie. Showing wonderful character development through the story and engaging the audience well throughout. When he was mean, the audience loathed him, but his floating and joyous demeanour by the finale was magical and you could feel the character’s warmth exuding from the stage.
To portray the visions from the past and to make the production feel more authentic, they had different aged actors portraying the character of Scrooge. Will Holguin as young Ebanezer and Connor Burns in his younger adult days. Both embodying their roles in his timeline well.
Of course, this character development would not have been possible without the help of some interfering spirits. Starting with his long-standing partner and friend Jacob Marley (Paul Arends) , the gentle and quirky Ghost of Christmas Past (Holly Blue), the more straight-talking Ghost of Christmas Present (Lorna Pout) and finally the eerie and daunting Ghost of Christmas Future (Chrys Fergani).
The lighting, sound and effects (Meg Doherty) to portray each vision and ghostly visit provided excellent atmosphere. Also using colour to portray the emotion and overall nature of the spirit which was visiting. Sound effects were timed well and used throughout to add layers to the scenes.
The supporting cast of characters fully immerse the audience in the production by interacting with them from the moment they set foot through the door. Many scenes also take place amongst the audience. A strong supporting cast to help move this story along.
All character’s costumes (Carol Golightly) suited the era and also the class. You were able to discern the type, class and role easily and quickly.
I always listen to the audience’s comments and as I was leaving the patrons were praising such a wonderful production with one lady proclaiming, “well, I thoroughly enjoyed that, what an evening!”
With an absolutely feeling good finale which is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. Thingwall have yet again produced an amazing show!
Reviewer: Steph Wiswall
Reviewed: 4th December 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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