Nativity! The Musical at the Theatre Royal Nottingham Review

Reviewed by Debbie Lowndes

What better way to get into the Christmas spirit on these cold dark nights than to go and see the musical stage version of Nativity! Written and directed Debbie Isitt.

The musical is entirely based upon the first Nativity film. Mr. Maddens whose character is an ineffective primary school teacher, who previously dropped out of acting school. As the school approaches the festive season the yearly Nativity is within reach. Christmas is not the best time for Mr Maddens as he was left broken hearted at this time of year by his ex-girlfriend Jennifer (childhood friend), who dumped him to chase her dreams as a Hollywood presenter. This was at the point of him plucking up courage to propose. Can things get any worse! Bring on Mr Poppy, plus Maddens competition – his former best friend, Gordon Shakespeare. Who is a primary school teacher from St Bernadette’s. St Bernadette’s have always been awarded for their festive extravaganzas. Shakespeare likes to rub this in Maddens face. Madden is determined to not be beat and declares without confirmation that by a Hollywood producer is coming to film his Christmas show. Now let the mayhem commence. His side kick in this adventure is of course the hyperactive and highly amusing classroom assistant Mr. Poppy (Simon Lipkin).

The material used throughout the musical was so funny and you just have to love Mr Poppy – who can’t! I thought some screens outshone the original movie. Maddens, played by Scott Garnham, was played well and he truly portrayed the image of the broken-hearted school teacher. He had a great voice belting out lovely songs. Likewise, Ashleigh Gray plays a relatively small role of Jennifer, but she does this well and sings with a great strong voice. Andy Brady is the mad Mr. Shakespeare, last but by no means least is the adorable Mr Poppy played by Simon Lipkin. Mr Poppy had to be the star of the show go me and his jokes with totally of form and there was true belly laughs from the packed theatre. He manages to get the best out of everyone around him, such positive vibes.

Well those kids, after all this is what it is all about, what about the kids? The local kids cast as the pupils of Oakmoor School are drilled to perfection, and the pupils of St. Bernadette’s are party animals. We must not forget the cutest cast member – Cracker the dog a heart stealer. A small part was also played by Charlie Brooks.

The stage set was amazing and felt like the real deal. The costumes were eye catching, sparkling and fun. The musical was choreographed by Andrew Wright and what a great job he did. The musical numbers where catchy and great. We had song lists in the program, how could you not possibly sing along.

The musical does not fail to delight. The emotion, laughter, excitement never diminishes throughout the performance. It will tug on the heart strings from time to time. Then in the next breath you cannot stop laughing.

The death slide, well and the girl on that half moon – I love you can you come and live with me? This show is not to be missed. It is up there as one of the best festive performances I have ever seen. Get yourselves along to Nottingham before it is too late, you regret it.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £23 to £52.50 (booking fees may apply).

Nativity! The Musical is at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham from 21-25 November 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.trch.co.uk or call the box office on 0115 989 5555.

Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall, Theatre Square, Nottingham, NG1 5ND