Well StageSideUK, I am well and truly in the Christmas Spirit! Yesterdays performance of A Christmas Carol at Darlington Hullabaloo was just what I needed to hear those sleigh bells and look back on the year. If that isn’t the effect of a good festive show, I don’t know what is.
The Storyteller
Performed by Guy Masterson, an Olivier award winner, this show takes the classic Dickensian tale of A Christmas Carol and brings it to 2021… or any time for that matter. A one performer show, underscored by original music by Robb Williams, that truly delivers that festive punch. Yesterdays show was full of rich descriptions, amazing character work, a minimalist set and costume which actually performed to their advantage and a very good storyteller. There really isn’t much more you can say when a show is just this good.
In one hour you are transported through the streets of where old Scrooge himself lives, told the tale of his past, present and gloomy future all by one man. Guy really does take on all the characters, physicalises them, changes his voice and approach to each and is very convincing with each one. If I had my eyes shut I wouldn’t have know it was one performer, but I would have missed out on the wonderful dancing.
No onto our new rating system… OOOOHHHH
Entertainment
(Did the show give me what I paid for, did I cry? Did I dance along?)
In terms of entertainment, this show delivered well above my expectations. For a one performer show and so many characters I was shocked and left in awe at the effort and passion that went into each and every one. With music made for the show, effective but minimal special effects and with 4th wall breaking moments that had the audience laughing, you really couldn’t ask for anything else.
I give this show five out of five stars for the entertainment value.
Value for money
(Was the cost of the ticket reflected on stage? Was the price fair? )
This show cost me, and everyone else as all seats are a flat rate, £14.50. The show lasted over an hour with no interval. From start to finish Guy was on his feet (or the chair) putting his all into the characterisation. Great thought had gone into every detail. Sure there may not be a set or fancy costumes, but the ability to hook a full house and keep their attention (with no phones or conversations for once) is a feat and for that I think this show has to have five out of five stars for their value for money.
Accessibility
(What was the show like in terms of noise levels, sensitivity issues, topics mentioned within.)
This team had clearly thought about their accessibility. Volume levels seemed a comfortable level for all. Not too loud, not too quiet. The lighting effects were slow and smooth and the technical effects with the microphone were smooth and expected. The performance had no particular references in it that would upset me, but I do not know if they would upset others. These references were moments from the original text and something that couldn’t really be reworked.
Again there was nothing in this show that would stop me from giving it a full five out of five stars.
Did I stand for the bows? I didn’t BUT only because it didn’t feel appropriate to do so. This was more of a story telling session than a full on performance. I think if I had stood, it would have been a bit out of place.
Plus, I was on a barstool, which meant not only was I already taller than the rows in front of me because I am 6 foot with the majority of that coming from my torso, but I was also an extra foot in the air compared to other audience members. If you’re someone who likes to get to the theatre around Christmas and get into the festive season with a good story, then don’t miss this show. It really was brilliant. The show is performing for one more night in Darlington. TONIGHT!! So do book those tickets if it sounds like something you will enjoy.
Have your say!
Will you be seeing A Christmas Carol at the Hullabaloo? Do you have a favourite Christmas Story? Let me know in the comments and let’s get a discussion going.
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