The festive season at Chichester Festival Theatre has welcomed a new musical production, but the magic feels somewhat dimmed. 'A Boy Called Christmas', an adaptation of Matt Haig's beloved children's book, delivers a visually delightful spectacle but struggles to conjure the emotional wonder its Santa origin story promises.
A Heroic Effort from Young Performers
This stage musical, which charts the early adventures of Nikolas on his path to becoming Father Christmas, is brought to life by the Chichester Festival Youth Theatre. More than 70 young performers take on the task with commendable energy and dedication. On press night, Devon Sandell led the cast as the 11-year-old Nikolas, full of vigour as he journeys north to find his father and encounters a pet mouse, a reindeer named Blitzen, and a host of elves and fantastical creatures.
The production's strongest suit is its visual charm. Ryan Dawson Laight's lovely costumes and Charlie Tymms's vivid puppets create an engaging storybook world. Directed by Dale Rooks and set against Simon Higlett's mobile designs of icy landscapes, the show has a polished, wintry aesthetic.
Where the Production Loses Its Sparkle
Despite the heroic efforts of the youth cast, the professional elements of the show fail to match their commitment. The script by adapter Philip Wilson is criticised as staid, while the songs—with music by Tom Brady and lyrics by Brady and Wilson—are described as humdrum and samey. From the opening number 'How Do You Do It', the score lacks memorable hooks.
Furthermore, the choreography remains minimal and static, missing opportunities for dynamic movement during key scenes like a sleigh chase. The result is a notable absence of show-stopping musical numbers. Crucially, the production generates little sense of emotional catch or genuine jeopardy, even with the appearance of a fearsome bear and troll.
Final Verdict on the Christmas Tale
This marks the second time Chichester has adapted a hit film-from-a-book into a musical, following the successful 'The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry'. Unfortunately, lightning does not strike twice. The review concludes that while the visual elements delight, the show needs more spark to make audiences truly believe in its Christmas magic.
'A Boy Called Christmas' continues its run at Chichester Festival Theatre until 31 December 2023. It remains a family-friendly outing with considerable visual appeal, but those seeking a transformative festive theatrical experience may find the enchantment in short supply.
