(4 / 5)

Over the past couple of years, it has become somewhat of an annual tradition for me to take the short journey to the Weston Studio and the Wales Millennium Centre to watch a queer-infused re-telling of some of the most iconic Christmas classics to ever exist. The last three Christmases saw Polly Amorous and the team take over the venue with their unique version of festive stories (the most recent of which is the first xxxmas which you can read about at https://getthechance.wales/2023/12/23/review-the-first-xxxmas-by-rhys-payne/) but the team working on this year’s project took a much more classically theatrical twist! As the name would suggest this iteration of The Nutcracker players homage to the iconic two-act ballet of the same name and I have to admit this is not a show I am particularly familiar with and so it did take me a little longer to pick on some of the nods and reference to the original show.

Production Images Kirsten McTernan

The story explores the underground world of misunderstood creatures as they highlight their skills in the wonderfully eccentric “Le Crack” through a series of cabaret-style performances. I thought that it was particularly clever that the opening moments of the show showed the group of outcasts actually putting on the aforementioned cabaret performance for the audience as this beautifully blended the lines between the story and reality that totally made sense!

My favourite performance in this version of The Nutcracker however was the captivating Cadbury Parfait who took on the wonderfully iconic role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. From the very moment this performer stepped onto the stage, they instantly stole both the spotlight and the audience’s attention as they showcased an incredible burlesque-infused performance. The performer used every inch of the stage as they began peeling off layers of their gorgeous insanely regal, gorgeously pink outfit which the audience went absolutely wild for. The second half of this production, however, saw the sugar plum fairy fully embrace a more villainous perspective as she began to spout a series of homophobic/transphobic abuse at the budding couple of the Nutcracker and the Rat King. This transformation began with the character being shrouded by towering curtains (which later magically cascaded down to the floor to reveal her new outfit) above the stage as she donned her Margret Thatcher-inspired suit/hair as she began spouting transphobic/homophobic abuse at the new coupling of the Nutcracker and the Rat King which was clearly a reference to the section 28 laws passed during Thatcher’s leadership. This then transformed into a performance of a performance of “Just Don’t be Gay” which was a comedic, cabaret-centric number that exposed the character’s bigoted views and also contained buckets loads of audience participation as the sugar plum fairy had key audience members reciting the straight creed of loving fixing cars, top gear and cigars. Despite being the character which the audience was encouraged to hate and boo, but I could not help myself being totally transfixed every time this character took to the stage!

Just over a year ago, we were introduced to the incredible Diomede at the first every Hell Haus event (which you can read about at https://rhysreviews.com/2023/10/23/hell-haus-production-review/) where we were totally transfixed by their incredible lip-synch talents but I was not aware how much of an all-round musical performer they are! Diomede was announced as the titular role in this queer-adaptation of the classic Nutcracker, and they were instrumental in helping invite immense amounts of sympathy from the audience. As an innocent character brought into this underground world of cabaret, The Nutcracker is not aware of all the things that go on at Le Crack or the lives of the creatures underground and so seeing this character go from being totally unaware to becoming a victim of the oppression was very powerful! There was a hilarious sequence later in the show where Diomede was forced into a physical box after confessing their attraction towards The Rat King (captured wonderfully by Len Blanco) to her master the Sugar Plum Fairy which led to a series of hilarious events where this performer trying to encourage a romantic moment while being stuck inside the box and also reciting the “straight man” mantra introduced by the sugar plumb fairy which had the audience in hysterics throughout!

In terms of individual performances, however, there was one member of the cast who clearly used this production to showcase their immense array of talents. Before ‘the cast of Le Crack’ could take to the stage the audience was greeted by Heledd Watkins as the world’s first dominatrix cockroach who helped to introduce “Le Crack” and the rules of the evening (which was obviously very important at any event) with a series of Nessa-inspired interactions with the audience. Throughout this compare-style introduction, ‘Roach’ showcased their bilingual talents by sharing some of the information through the medium of Welsh which is obviously a fantastic inclusion. Later in the production Roach also showcased their musical talents but not only providing backing vocals for all the performers but also busting out a series of electric guitar solos which was insanely impressive!

Overall, Nutcracker: the alternative cabaret is a contemporary and entertaining twist on one of the most iconic ballets with a much-welcomed queer/cabaret style twist which allowed space for a series of mesmerising performances. As previously discussed, this is my first experience with The Nutcracker so I do believe that I may have missed some of the references to the original story, but the narrative itself was easy enough to understand. Despite being an extremely outlandish tale, the love story between the invading toy soldier and the king of the rats is particularly captivating and the added layer of queerness to the story makes it even more heartwarming. The audience was clearly immensely involved with the story as they appeared to erupt in thunderous applause or booming boos at key points in the story. I would rate this story 4 out of 5 stars!

The story is super powerful, and it created a more impactful side to motherhood.  The synopsis of the story delves into the complexities and resilience of the whole womanhood and motherhood aspect, it further tells the story about a mother, called Amber, who fights for her daughter’s health who is fighting cerebral palsy, and her name is Bea. The stage configuration illustrates a boxing ring to win the support for her daughter, the whole story shows great emotion and conflict with the facing of cerebral palsy and the role of being a mother going against the system.

The performance I went and saw with my College, BGLZ, was led by Micha Williams, her performance was incredible, and her portrayal has widely influential in the theatre.  The acting led by the actress is praised for its emotional depth and physicality due to its practical on-stage boxing techniques.  The character Amber has great purpose in the play, she is the protagonist and is a compelling person. The actress plays her outstandingly well and with the physicality, and the acting was amazing. Micha shows great significance when using the boxing ring that symbolizes a determination to fight for her daughters’ rights, this made me super emotional because of how well she portrayed the characters feelings.

The themes within the play are very vulnerable when it shows the depth of an innocent family’s life.  The lengths that a mother will go through for her child is empowering, and this play definitely shows the strength that Amber goes through, but also the upsetting side to it too.   The theme of fighting is the main theme of the play, and it adds that unique adaptation to the story’s main focus.  Furthermore, the boxing metaphor demonstrates the emotional and powerful dimension to the narrative: this emphasizes the intensity of Ambers struggle while dealing with life.

In summary, the Mum Fighter play is a powerful story written by Tracy Harris, and it explores her own struggle.  Harris has a son with the disability, Cerebral Palsy and has created a perfect adaptation of her personal life to a stage show demonstrating the battle she went through herself. With the joint amazing writing and performance, the play is overall incredible, and the theatrical experience creates such a moving atmosphere within the theatre that leaves the audience grasping for what happened next, and how proud that the audience is when Amber wins the fight mentally and physically.

Photo credit: Andrew AB

(5 / 5)

It was a joy to be back in the newly refurbished main theatre at Theatr Clwyd for their annual Rock ‘n’ Roll pantomime this year. Theatr Clwyd is currently undergoing a huge redevelopment and aims to gradually reopen, with everything up and running again from mid-2025. The main theatre, renamed Moondance, is the perfect venue for the festive event of the year- for even if sitting in the back row, it’s impossible not to feel part of the action. Audiences were thrilled not to miss out last year as the production moved to the Big Top but unfortunately it lost the intimacy which makes Theatr Clwyd’s infamous panto so special and so, here we are, back to what we know and love…oh yes, we are!

The scene is set immediately upon entering the auditorium with an old farm windmill stage right and an ominous looking water tower with a chute attached stage left (all to be revealed later in the proceedings!) The proscenium arch is adorned with brightly coloured lights and, as always, the show’s title is displayed proudly in the centre, this year decorated with bubbles and rainbows- such a lovely, warm welcome to the new venue! Theatr Clwyd’s sets always have a story to tell, and they’ve even gone one further this year adding a nod to the modern age with flashy computer screens and super tech equipment in Suella de Rhyl’s lair (kudos to whoever came up with our villain’s name this year…and that’s coming from someone who lives in Rhyl!)

The costumes get bigger and better every year (as does Phylip Harries’ Panto Dame chest!) From the beautiful bohemian regalia of Billie Eyelash, the Fairy (another inspired name!) to the sublime and ridiculous Botticelli inspired Birth of Venus costume donned by Dame Gwladys Goose- a huge hand must go to Adrian Gee whose designs are simply show-stopping!

There is something for everyone when it comes to the music and choreography in this production. We’re treated to a version of Beyonce’s Texas Hold ‘Em but with a rather amusing lyric amendment…’This ain’t Wrexham (ooh!), ain’t no hold ‘em (hey!)’, a rip-roaringly appropriate Shake Your Tail Feather and a beautifully performed take on Snow Patrol’s Chasing Cars which is surprisingly moving.

Once again, the cast enthrall us with their capabilities as performers; line dancing one moment then rocking out on guitar the next, tackling some tricky dialogue before heading off to grab their saxophone! Incredible! And the reason, for me, that Theatr Clwyd’s panto is head and shoulders above the rest! No reliance on ‘celebrity’ names, just pure talent!

This production is superbly cast, each bringing their character to life with energy, powerful vocals and spot-on comic delivery. Phylip Harries’ once again shines as the Dame (it will be a sad, sad day when he decides to throw in the boob pads!) but special mention must go to Celia Cruwys-Finnagan as Mari Goose- standing at about five feet tall, this pocket-rocket has a powerhouse voice, sparkling charisma and sheer professionalism in spades! Director Daniel Lloyd is very much missed on stage, having been a pivotal part of Theatr Clwyd’s pantos for many years. However, his experience and expertise on stage mean he is all the better at knowing what works and what doesn’t as a director, and that paired with the witty and original writing of Chris Patterson can only be a recipe for success.

Mother Goose is quite literally the mother of all pantos- it’s got everything, from a brilliant script, a stellar cast and the perfect balance of wit, sentiment and tradition with a sprinkling of Christmas cheer. The new theatre has been christened and what a fabulous beginning to its story! Here’s to the next chapter for Theatr Clwyd!

Theatr Clwyd, Mold

December 6^th, 2024 – January 19^th, 2025

Writer: Chris Patterson

Director: Daniel Lloyd

Set & Costume Designer: Adrian Gee

Assistant Director: Ellie Rose

Musical Director: Tayo Akinbode

Casting Director: Jenkins McShane Casting CDG

Lighting Designer: Johanna Town

Sound Designer: Ian Barnard

Choreographer: Jess Williams

Company Stage Manager: Alec Reece

Deputy Stage Manager: Edward Salt

Assistant Stage Manager: Emma Hardwick

Wellbeing Facilitator: Hester Evans

Cast includes Dan Bottomley, Joe Butcher, Celia Cruwys-Finnigan, Imad Eldeen, Phylip Harries, Alice McKenna, Ryan Owen, Steve Simmonds, Chioma Uma, Georgina White

Running time: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes (inc. interval)

Image Credit Richard Hubert Smith

(5 / 5)

Taking two children (11 and 12) to see a production of the Dickens classic ‘A Christmas Carol’ and knowing nothing about the production was a risk.  I’d heard it was quite long, I was worried it might be very dour and maybe the language would be inaccessible for youngsters.  I’ve also experienced other Christmas productions which were quite ‘arty’ interpretations of classic tales (e.g. The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe – when during the interval I heard a child ask their parent ‘Mummy what’s an Aslan’?) and clearly went way above their heads.  So, I was fairly surprised to see a variety of instruments on and before the stage as we came into the comfortable auditorium.  I was also reassured to see a detailed set of a traditional snowy, Victorian street scene, as I’d feared a minimalist, abstract set that might not convey the oppressive Dickensian atmosphere.  The opening seconds of the performance also did not disappoint – a dramatic musical flourish and a burst of coloured light revealed the silhouette of our ‘protagonist’ complete with tilted top hat and heavy winter coat.  And that readers, was the end of all the traditionalism……

‘He’ was not a he at all – this Cardiff dwelling, Ebenezer Scrooge (or Ebbie) is a cello-playing, powerhouse of a woman with the stature and stage presence to intimidate all but the bravest of souls.  Hannah McPake strides around the stage, glaring and hollering at anyone who tries to drag her into the spirit of Christmas and merely laughs at the impending threat of her three night-time visitors. 

It’s difficult to know where to start reviewing the rest of the cast – each of them taking on at least two but most often four or five other characters through-out the show – but undoubtedly what they all have in common is an abundance of talent!  It is honestly breathtaking the quality of the acting, singing and musical skills we were treated to by this accomplished cast.  We had a harp, an accordion, a saxophone, we had puppets, we had slapstick comedy, tears and anguish, romance and West-End quality voices from a cast of only 8 and there wasn’t one amongst them that didn’t add to the richness of the experience we had in the Sherman Theatre that evening.

The subtle beauty of the ghost of Christmas past (Catrin Mai Edwards) – beautiful Welsh vocals and evocative storytelling had me transported to Victorian Cardiff and entranced.  Then, listed only as ‘Apprentice Actor’ in the programme, our hearts were all broken by the perfect tones of Madalena Juma as Ebbie’s Mum forced to give him up as she was sent to the Workhouse.  ‘Apprentice’ she may be, but she is definitely mastering her craft most ably as she held her own amongst this accomplished company.

After the emotion and the drama of the past, and still laughing in the face of her past crimes and misdemeanours, Ebbie and the audience are confronted with (or maybe ‘assaulted by’) the Ghost of Christmas Present…..what can I say about Owen Alun as the Ghost of Christmas Present?  There are no words – suffice to say that EVERYONE needs a ‘Ginger North Walian’ in their lives at Christmas (and frankly all year around!).  No spoilers here – you have to experience it!

In a very modern backstory, we got insight into the reasons behind Ebbie’s notorious miserliness and the drama was built as we thought the Ghost of Christmas Present had finally cracked through her hard shell and Ebbie would be saved from the torment and chains endured by her former business partner Marley, but alas she soon slipped back into her old ways.  Bring on the mighty Ghost of Christmas Future! 

The creativity of this production is wonderful – the four ghosts (including Marley of course) could not be more different – they are humorous, enchanting, ridiculous and terrifying and take the audience on a rollercoaster of emotion through-out the nearly two-hour production.  There is so much attention to detail in the set, the costumes, the vulnerable delicacy of the puppet children, the music and the songs – it combines to make a perfect evening.  Last Christmas I had the pleasure of seeing Disney’s Aladdin at another venue in Cardiff – the big budget spectacular was incredible and left me feeling joyous and uplifted, but I can honestly say that the exuberant feeling as I jumped to my feet to explode into applause with the rest of the audience after this production, was absolutely no less life-affirming and the first thing I did when I got home was have a look to see if there are still tickets available to go again!  This is pretty much a first for me – I don’t think I’ve seen any production twice in my life!  It was heartening to hear that my 11-year-old son and his friend loved it to, and he’d also be willing to spend another evening in the company of this incredible cast!  Oh, and if you’re wondering who his favourite character was?…….That well-known Dickens character – the business bauble!  You’ll just have to go and find out for yourself!