Christmas has arrived early in Wolverhampton as the smash-hit musical Nativity hits their stage to spread sparkle and shine across the city.
It’s a beautiful British story about a group of kids at a struggling primary school in Coventry. Everyone has lost hope in them and their only chance of saving the school is by putting on the best nativity play the city has ever seen. Mr Maddens is put in charge to direct the play, who hates Christmas and it isn’t until a mad classroom assistant Mr Poppy comes to help him out, do they find inspiration for the show.
With a strong rivalry against the private school Oakmoor who consistently receive rave reviews for their innovative nativity, Mr Maddens ensures they put on a nativity that will go down in history.
Created with charm, humour and star-studded theatrical numbers, it feels as if this story was made to be a musical. Between the bright lights and dazzling visuals, it’s the children that really are the heart of the show.
The stark contrast between the children at Oakmoor Prep – the poshest school in the whole of Coventry and the kids of St Bernadettes is just superb. The way the creative team have slick well trained drama-school kids to play the children at Oakmoor, really brings out the humour of St Bernadettes.
It feels authentic and real which captures everybody’s emotions when they put on their epic school nativity. The personalities of the children really shine out, as they all feel so genuine and truthful in their roles. It’s rare to see kids like that on stage, but it’s a real treat and the natural humour they bring to the stage has the audience howling with laughter.
Scott Garnham takes on the role of Mr Maddens, a kind and charming teacher that is feeling down after his long-term girlfriend left him at Christmas to pursue her dream to be a Hollywood producer. Garnham is at home in the role and despite feeling down on his luck, he brings a real sincerity to the character.
Scott Paige gives a new take on the role of Mr Poppy, the bubbly and vibrant (yet incredibly childish) teaching assistant. He is a lovable character that steals the show with his witty remarks and excitable nature. Paige has superb comedy timing with his natural effortless humour. Despite Mr Maddens’ frustrations with him, their friendship is delightfully charming to watch grow.
Nativity the Musical is completely joyous from start to finish. It’s an infectious musical that will have you laughing, crying and grinning from ear to ear. The catchy songs, impressive staging and charming cast are the reason it’s such a success year after year.
Bursting with sparkle, shine and everything in-between, it’s the feel-good show that’s guaranteed to warm your heart this festive season.
★★★★★
On at the Wolverhampton Grand until Saturday the 2nd November, tickets and information can be found on their website.
