Writer: Charles Dickens
Adaptor: Mark Gatiss
Director: Adam Penford
A Christmas Carol is a story which needs no introduction. The timeless classic masterfully penned by Charles
Dickens has returned to Birmingham, the very city in which he delighted locals in 1854 when the nearby Town Hall became the place to be to hear the rollercoaster journey of Ebeneezer Scrooge.
Dickens might not have known at the time that his literary work would still be enjoyed by new generations in the 21st century, and he certainly would have wanted to experience the technical creativity in Adam Penford’s production at the REP. While many are familiar with Dickens’ original story, Mark Gatiss has adapted the story in a way which is faithful to the original but that has the potential to become iconic in its own right. This version is paced well and despite being coined as a ghost story, it is the more heart-warming and brighter, festive moments which stand out as the play goes on. The narration to tell the story at appropriate moments from Geoffery Beevers is well received and integrated well into the original plot.
The play begins with the backdrop of the dark, Victorian counting house that is Scrooge and Marley. The coldness is felt in the audience and is a contrast to the warm, vibrant lights of the German market that is in full force outside of the theatre. The lighting and set design by Philip Gladwell and Paul Wills help the audience immerse themselves in the action, something which is always helped by the close, intimate seating at the REP. Wills is also responsible for costume design, also a standout feature of the production. The introduction of the ghost of Jacob Marley should always be an iconic moment, and the heavily shackled costume design for this role certainly adds to this scene.
While the fear factor typically associated with ghost stories doesn’t take centre stage in this production, there are still some clever projections and illusions which are woven into the story well. This is especially clear during the arrival of the ghosts, helping to capture the nervousness of an Ebeneezer Scrooge who is starting to lose control of his senses. The use of special effects is becoming mainstream in theatre and there is some exemplary work to integrate it in this show.
Matthew Cottle demonstrates all of the bitterness and misery we come to expect of Scrooge in the opening moments of the play, but it is his ability to deliver lines with an injection of wit and dark comedy which helps make his journey to redemption more entertaining. His heart-breaking scene when his desire for greed comes at the cost of his relationship with Belle (Kalifa Taylor) is moving and adds to our hope that he can turn his life around.
Grace Hogg-Robinson is excellent as the Ghost of Christmas Past, with her ability to tease and intimidate a regretful Scrooge, while Lance West adds an abundance of charisma and energy to the role of the ever-cheerful Fred. It is the family scenes in the second half of the play which are heart-warming and joyful. A well-choreographed Christmas dinner scene is followed by energetic dancing and tasteful music which make Scrooge’s reintegration into family life one we can appreciate more. The use of excellent child actors in these scenes also adds to the magic of Christmas at the end of the play.
Joyous is not often the word used to describe A Christmas Carol, but the blend of fear and festivities in this adaptation means you will be frightened and delighted in equal measure. Enjoy this production while you can, or you might just regret the past.
Runs until 5 January 2025
The Reviews Hub Score
Masterful Adaptation
