Brick Lane Music Hall, a hidden gem situated in the heart of the docklands. Founded by Vincent Hayes MBE in1992. This resurrected church is the home of entertainment on a grandiose level. A theatre dining experience serving laughter, music hall cabaret and party time fun. When you walk in you are struck by the attention to detail to replicate early 20th century British theatre.
The Magic of Christmas did not disappoint and with each costume change came a gambit of old and new classic Christmas songs and carols. From David Essex’s Winter’s Tale to I’m dreaming of a White Christmas to an amazing performance of The Pogues & Kirsty MacColl’s Fairytale of New York.
A guest appearance by ‘Royal appointment’ was the outstanding violinist Victoria Yellop just wow. Victoria was the late HRH Queen Elizabeth’s violinist, and she served a spectacular medley of a Scots Christmas at Balmoral including Auld Lang Syne. The cast of six singers Joe Payne, Samantha McNeil, Charlotte Fage, Lucy Reed, Jake Lawrence and Andrew Robley serenade you through two acts of pure joy, and conventional Christmas spirit. Be prepared for old-style circa post war music hall comedy provided by compare and maestro Vincent Hayes himself. The obligatory audience participation came with ease in the form of a sing along to songs of bygone days. It’s warm, inclusive and very traditional designed for a niche set of clienteles. What dazzled was Zara Kattan’s costume design exquisite styles that showcased the brilliance of each individual performer. From the staging to the professionalism of everyone involved including the dining service, quality of the food to the vocal performances that were so polished, it takes your breath away.
The set was simple but appropriate for this style, the lighting bright ensuring a good view was achieved from the back of the theatre. It lit up the churchs’ eaves adding technicolour to this historic building.
Vincent’s improv solo sets provided the jokes, with madcap comedy that at times was a little uneasy to hear, ‘but of the time’. There is a serious wholesome message amongst his gags, one of caring for each other and supporting community projects.
Patrons of the Music Hall has some recognisable names, Anita Harris Lorraine Chase Joy Laguda MBE and Su Pollard so there is no surprising of what to expect from this theatre experience. This lunch time performance commences with doors opening at 12.15pm, lunch served at 12.45 with show time from 2.30 to approx 5pm. It’s a long day and this style of entertainment will not appeal to all audiences in the same way, therefore it is important to research The Music Hall dining experience before you commit to booking it.
The Magic of Christmas is the gift that keeps on giving. Its appeal will be the proof of the Christmas pudding.
Director Jordan Langford
Creative producers Jack Pallister and Jordon Langford
Musical Director Scott Hayes
Costume Designer Zara Kattan
Matinee performances 2.30pm 2hrs 30minute with an Interval
Run 19th November – 19th December 2025
Booking Link https://www.bricklanemusichall.co.uk/shows/the-magic-of-christmas/
Reviewer: Michelle Knight
Reviewed: 26th November 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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