Mog’s Christmas at Royal and Derngate Review
Mog’s Christmas production image. Photo by Manuel Harlan
Written by Hollie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Judith Kerr’s famous mischievous cat, Mog, graces the stage at The Royal & Derngate Theatre in Northampton during the most wonderful time of the year, this Christmas. First released in 1970, the popular children’s picture book has grown in popularity over the years.
Included in the Sainsbury’s Christmas advert in 2015 and titled ‘Mog’s Christmas Calamity’, which created a popular storybook of the same name, Mog’s appeal has risen through the ranks and inspired children and adults alike.
With Mog bunting, colouring activities and paper chains adorning the foyer as well as the auditorium, this year’s children’s offering at the Royal & Derngate is centred around the younger members of the family that may not yet be ready for the traditional pantomime. Will Mog get up to lots of mischief this Christmas, or will she end up causing a Christmas calamity?
The postman opens the show by arriving on his favourite street of his round. Christmas is the busiest time of year for post people, and he talks about the wonderful pets that live behind the doors of the people on this street. I loved the inclusion of a post person here, as it is a reflection of last year’s outstanding production of The Jolly Christmas Postman.
As the postman, played by Tom England, bursts into song for his musical number ‘Just one cat,’ I couldn’t help but be amazed by the scenery as well as the on-stage pianist who subtly plays at the back of the stage. Tom’s friendly manner allows the audience to focus on the plot and get themselves comfy and cosy to hear about Mog’s adventures throughout the year.
Mog, played by Faye Lord, is an extremely forgetful and truly remarkable cat. She has had a hectic year, and the story is told through the different seasons, explaining what Mog has been up to. Faye plays her role perfectly and adds energy and cheekiness to Mog’s personality and stage presence.
Making up the human members of The Thomas Family are Aimee Louise Bevan as Debbie, Jesse Meadows as Nicky, Heather Porte as Mrs Thomas and Ben Vardy as Mr Thomas. All the actors have incredible acting and singing talent and they move around the stage effortlessly with a range of props and lighting arrangements.
The lighting throughout this show, designed by Lucia Sanchez Roldan, is truly magical, and it feels almost like an additional character. There were many WOW moments both for the children and adults whilst they enjoyed the performance.
As the seasons change, it is raining like cats and dogs and mischievous feline friend Mog has many dreams and wishes as she falls asleep in her cat basket. Many of Judith Kerr’s other Mog stories are brought to life throughout the show, and the use of rhyming words during the songs provides pace and energy throughout this short sixty minute show.
Mog is quite a particular cat, and she knows what she likes and what she doesn’t. The children were on the edge of their booster seats whilst watching this nostalgic but bright, colourful and visually appealing production.
As the snow continues to fall and the family enjoy Christmas Day, you can’t help but remember your own childhood Christmases as you watch and reflect on what Christmas is really all about: family, friends and pets.
If you wish to escape the hustle and bustle this Christmas, then book a ticket to see this festive show. The theatre was not full, but this is a fantastic production which needs support. It is not a pantomime but a wonderful alternative for toddlers and pre-schoolers. I even met some ladies in the audience who come every year, even without their own children or grandchildren. They thought it was absolutely brilliant!
Mog’s Christmas continues at Royal & Derngate in Northampton until Wednesday 31st December 2025.
★★★★
