If you’re dreaming of a White Christmas, there’s only one musical to see in the West End this festive season.
Irving Berlin’s classic 1954 film has been adapted for the stage in this spectacular musical that combines toe-tapping numbers, divine choreography and glorious staging. It has everything you need in Christmas musical, it’s sparkly, camp and utterly delightful.
White Christmas is a beautifully warm story, but it’s the extraordinary cast that take your breath away. Danny Mac reprises his role Bob Wallace, he plays the smooth gentleman with charisma and charm. His velvety vocals and slick moves prove him to be a real showman as he encapsulates the role. Opposite him, Dan Burton plays the cheeky and confident Phil Davis. Burton has a commanding stage presence as he glides across the stage. Burton’s on stage chemistry with Mac creates a endearing friendship and they bounce off each other superbly.
Clare Halse, who wowed London as Peggy Sawyer in 42nd St last year, is exceptional as Judy Haynes. She brings a feisty spirit to the role and her movement is mesmerising. Playing her sister, Danielle Hope is magnificent as Betty and her vocals soar across the Dominion, particularly in her solo number ‘Love, You Didn’t Do Right by Me.’ Brenda Edwards shines as the General’s right-hand woman Martha whose powerhouse vocals are radiant.
Opening in the war, we meet Bob Wallace and Phil Davis who have a real camaraderie in their base camp. Years later, they find themselves as well-known performers who end up in Vermont with the Haynes sisters. When they find out their old General is running the inn in Vermont, they plan to put on a very special show.
It’s a musical that exudes elegance and class and the show-stopping choreography by Stephen Mear is simply exquisite. Director Nikolai Foster has mastered the heart of this show as underneath the bright lights and sparkle are sublimely crafted characters that you instantly warm to.
White Christmas is a joyous and nostalgic stage adaptation of a well-loved festive classic. With an enchanting cast that light up the Dominion stage with their sheer talent, it’s the perfectly theatrical way to celebrate this Christmas.
★★★★
White Christmas is on at the Dominion Theatre until Saturday 4th of January. Tickets and information can be found on their website.
