A Very Naughty Christmas – Southwark Playhouse

The ‘naughty set’ has arrived, fresh onto the London theatre scene from down under ready to shake up Christmas. Hold on to your hats as there are not many clothes featured in this Australian production, billed as a comedy concert for strictly adult members only. This one and half hours contains skits, dancing and burlesque whilst showcasing a musical feast of popular music to traditional Christmas tunes spiced up, reworded in a way you have never heard before or may never hear again. It’s rogue it’s risqué with tantalising moments of indulgence which hits the funny bone and very suited the mood and ambience of ‘A Very Naughty Christmas’ indeed, ‘Santa Loves You Less Because You’re poor’ ‘Jingle ball’s’ maybe not one to sing out loud; yes you get the idea.

There are stand out moments from the reveal in ‘Walking in a Winter Wonderland’ and the card dance synonymous of pure nostalgic slapstick comedy genius.    

This show follows in the footsteps of classic musicals and plays by Woodward productions (Jersey Boys, Woman in Black) although quite a different genre.  Their extenuated Australian accents elevated the funny lines, and the scenes moved along in the main cohesively, this show got better as time went on. The scenes acted on the floor were lost to some audience members sitting on the ground floor as it is impossible to see through the people in front; the theatre staging was an issue and the cast made it work. The theatre was full, the audience were engaged and interacting well with the jokes, audience participation is very much part of this show, and it felt very inclusive which was wonderful. 

This comedic musical already has a huge following in Australia Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne with 44,000 tickets sold. London audiences seemed to really enjoy it and could well be a hit. This is a Christmas party night out for friends, family and anyone who is open minded.

It is Funny, Festive and fabulously infectious!   

Director and Choreography: Daniel Venz  

Original Songs and Skits: Matthew Semple 

Skits: Stephen Hirst and Emily Kristopher 

Musical Supervisor: Dom Woodhead

Additional Lyrics: Tom Collins and Aurélie Roque   

Creative Contributor: Alister Smith

Running time 1hrs 30 mins no interval, 28th November – 11th January 2025 https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/a-very-naughty-christmas/

Reviewer: Michelle Knight

Reviewed 3^rd December 2024  

North West End UK Rating: