The Brindley Theatre in Runcorn is kicking off their festive programme very strong this year, starting with Nativity! The Musical.
Adapted to stage by Debbie Isitt – the director and writer of the 2009 film of the same name – Nativity! The Musical really is festive fun for the entire family.
I am always a bit dubious of hit films being adapted for the stage, as more often than not the stage show becomes a carbon copy of the motion picture, often to lesser effect. However, I needn’t have worried with Nativity! – This production was the perfect blend of being true to the original source material, while having its own nuances and standout moments in its own right, playing perfectly into the audience’s hands.
People familiar with the classic Christmas film will be delighted to know that the storyline didn’t differ – it still follows the story of primary school teacher Paul Maddens who is roped into directing his school’s Nativity play. However, goaded by his high-school rival (and fellow teacher at the local independent school) Mr Shakespeare, Mr Maddens brags that hotshot Hollywood producers are going to be attending his Nativity play that year. This news captures the hearts and imaginations of the town, so Mr Maddens (along with the help of his boisterous teaching assistant Mr Poppy and the students of St Bernadette’s school) needs to find a way to make a Christmas miracle happen – and create the best Nativity play the town of Coventry has ever seen…
This show was an absolute marvel from start to finish – the dialogue was witty and engaging, the musical numbers were dynamic and excellently choreographed, while the acting was brilliant. All 3 of the leading actors (Andrew Dunn as Mr Maddens, Dan Grimes as Mr Poppy and Peter Brennan as Gordon Shakespeare) were sensational, however Dan Grimes’ portrayal as the childish but loveable Mr Poppy was a scene-stealing performance and requires special mention.
Similarly, the cast of children in this production were all wonderful – although not always step – or pitch-perfect, each and every child in the cast put in a stellar performance, and every small missed cue or missed step just reaffirmed to the audience that they’re watching a primary school Nativity, where anything can go wrong. Despite the lighting and sound letting the side down slightly (with poor lighting in some areas, and the orchestra drowning out the musical numbers for the duration of the show), again this only served to make the audience really believe they’re watching a school Nativity, where (no matter what) the show must always go on. It was wonderfully endearing, and only enhanced the heartwarming nature of the piece.
Don’t miss your chance to see Nativity! The Musical – it really is the perfect way to get the whole family into the festive spirit.
Nativity! The Musical is playing at The Brindley Theatre in Runcorn from Wednesday 15th November to Saturday 18th November 2023.
Reviewer: Hannah Wilde
Reviewed: 14th November 2023
North West End UK Rating: