White Christmas
Dominion Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 12th November 2014
★★★★
Although it's only the middle of November, after last night's press night of White Christmas I wanted to dash home to put up my Christmas tree and do all my festive shopping online. It is hard to believe that Irving Berlin's classic musical has never been staged in London before as it is so at home on a West End stage.
Aled Jones and Tom Chambers star as two ex-army pals who join forces with two sisters to put on a show to save their former General’s remote Vermont ski lodge. Perhaps this sounds a little random... but who cares?! It is irresistibly joyous! From the moment I stepped foot inside the newly refurbished Dominion Theatre to the minute I left I was smiling from ear to ear.
Under the musical direction of Andrew Corcoran, the 18-piece orchestra sound absolutely divine; they are the stars of the show! Nothing beats hearing the most incredible orchestra playing in one of the West End's biggest and most beautiful theatres. The score is timeless. As well as the famous title tune there are plenty of songs to tap your feet along to.
The ensemble are given their time to shine. The big group numbers provided the highlights of my evening; Randy Skinner's choreography is a dream. Morgan Young's production is slick, but most importantly it gives the audience exactly what they want.
Aled Jones gives an impressive performance, his vocals are strong and his charm brightens up the stage. Tom Chambers and Louise Bowden are both outstanding triple threats; together they open the second act with 'I Love A Piano' which is nothing short of sensational.
Wendi Peters steals the show with her grand portrayal of Martha, her rendition of 'Let Me Sing and I'm Happy' was just incredible! Her stage presence is commanding and her comic timing cannot be faulted.
The set does its job for a limited West End run. I quite enjoyed the short sections/mini sketches which are staged in front of the curtain between scenes whilst the set is being changed.
The running time is long, there were several moments in act one when I thought the interval was fast approaching... but then the show carried on. White Christmas could be a lovely family outing, although the younger ones might become a little restless at times.
The running time is long, there were several moments in act one when I thought the interval was fast approaching... but then the show carried on. White Christmas could be a lovely family outing, although the younger ones might become a little restless at times.
I adored every second of White Christmas. If you don't like getting into the festive spirit and prefer to see more hard-hitting and thought provoking pieces of theatre, White Christmas is not the show for you. However, if you're up for a bit of fun, want to get into the festive spirit and leave the theatre belting out Christmas songs into the night then what are you waiting for? Get your tickets now!
White Christmas does exactly what it says on the tin. Irving Berlin's musical provides a magical evening like no other; it is the perfect festive treat. Wouldn't it be wonderful if it could return to the West End every year?!
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
Please visit www.whitechristmasmusical.co.uk for further information and tickets.
You're too easily pleased, Andrew. ;-)
ReplyDeleteNoo I agree! It was a joy!
ReplyDelete