The Nutcracker – Turbine Theatre

This very adult pantomime is far from the beloved ballet with the same name. Bursting with adult humour and raucous fun, this ‘anything but sweet’ version of The Nutcracker opens at the Turbine Theatre for a limited run this Christmas.

Written by Joshua Coley (Elf the Musical), the show begins with our protagonist, Carly (Holly Ashman) who has gone through it this year, let’s put it that way. Her relationship ended abruptly (for better or for worse as we soon find out), her father passed away suddenly when he was caught in an outlandish collision with a Just Stop Oil protest, and her Mum is adamant about hosting her annual festive gathering in attempt to stick to the norm.

With a surprise visit from her uncle, Carly receives the iconic Nutcracker doll, which soon turns out to be the key to solving all her problems. The story takes off from there, leading us into a whirlwind of Christmas chaos, including a visit to Winter Wonderland and a run in with the Snow Queen and the Sugar Plum Fairy.

However, it is clear that in this production the plot is far from important. The show is dazzling with colour, character and charisma, the cast each playing multiple characters and delivering perfectly outrageous jokes.

In true pantomime fashion, the breaking of the fourth wall in this production is natural, each cast member communicating well with the audience onstage. Holly Ashman’s use of monologue and asking the audience for advice is executed well. The audience participation is vital in every pantomime, but to this show in particular. The most comical moments are through audience interaction and this show does well to make the audience feel involved. This theatre is a perfect setting for the intimate yet elaborate feel to the show.

For a smaller production, the set played a big part in the magic and entertainment. The staging is quick and innovative, and shows a clear change of scene, without stealing the show. The slapstick pantomime comedy is taken up a notch when Grace Whyte, dressed as a Christmas tree, becomes part of the set and changes of scene. Whyte’s characterisation and transitions of her different characters are particularly seamless and impressive, while Coley performs primarily in drag, his performance of Carly’s mother addicted to Xanax being hilarious and standout.

The musical numbers with a twist were real highlights throughout, in particular a scandalous version of the famous ‘Let It Go’ from Frozen and current songs from the Barbie movie, the lyrics changed to reflect the humour and chaos on stage. Theo Walker as The Nutcracker did a strangely moving but comical performance of ‘What Was I Made For?’ having the audience in hysterics with Coley’s reaction to it.

Packed with pop culture references and altered lyrics of chart-topping songs, this production pushes the pantomime boundaries to make for an evening of ‘absolute filth’ and eccentric entertainment.

The Nutcracker is currently showing at the Turbine Theatre at Battersea Power Station until 23^rd December 2023. More information and tickets can be found at: https://www.theturbinetheatre.com/whats-on/nutcracker

Age: 18+

Warnings: scenes of adult nature/themes, strong language, haze and smoke.

Reviewer: Maani Way

Reviewed: 5^th December 2023

North West End UK Rating: