REVIEW | Nativity! The Musical
★★★★★
Five years after its world premiere, one of the most popular Christmas productions is back where it all began. Nativity! The Musical has arrived at Birmingham Rep, bringing with it sparkle and shine! This production is a brilliant adaptation of the 2009 British film, brought to us by writer and director, Debbie Isitt.
Follow Coventry primary school St. Bernadette's School as they attempt to create a nativity like no other. The problem is their teacher Mr Maddens. Heartbroken and under the shadow of his arch-enemy, Mr Shakespeare, he wants to make this the best nativity, yet. It’s St Bernadette’s School’s time to shine! Unlucky for him though, his enthusiastic teaching teacher Mr Poppy overhears Mr Madden lying to Mr Shakespeare about the arrival of ‘Hollywood’.. Teachers be aware, any children seeing this production will have high expectations of their nativity once they’ve seen this!
This production has stood the test of time and still feels exciting even if it’s the sixth time you’ve seen it. Isitt has carefully integrated popular modern references into the script which go down an absolute storm with the audience. The choreography from Rebecca Louis is superb in this show. The movement style compliments the story and performers really well. Helped hugely with a sensational set and costume design.
Of course, the performance of the night definitely goes down to the 18 young children of St Bernadette’s and Oakmoor. They bring a remarkable quality that makes Nativity! as special as it should be. The children have admirable confidence and stage presence, lapping every moment they can in their solo parts as well as an ensemble. Notably ‘Dear Father Christmas’ adds great depth to these children’s stories as they sing their letters to Father Christmas out loud. All of the children were brilliant to watch, especially little dot Matilda Flower who as a six-year-old is as professional as they come and brings the house down as the star!
Billy Roberts steps into the shoes of Mr Maddens. He does a great job in doing so. The infectious energy of Mr Poppy comes in bags thanks to Ben Lancaster. Lancaster is instantly likeable to watch and his effortless humour is received well throughout. The relationship between Mr Poppy and Maddens was fresh and heartwarming, completely balancing one another out to portray a growing friendship throughout the entire production. This will definitely go from strength to strength during the show run that’s for sure!
The small cast merges together with animation and flare, with a high-quality cast from the dominating headteacher of a rival school Oakmoor, Mr Shakespeare (Matthew Rowland). Rowland was easily the best individual I have seen in this role and naturally funny. Jamie Chapman has the task of performing 4 roles on the night but is hilarious in every single one.
Nativity! builds up in spectacular style in the finale. The production is easily one of the most festive, touching and uplifting evenings you can get at the theatre.
This show has everything and more; a great cast, infectious joy and an incredible cast. It's definitely not a production you want to miss this festive season, so make sure you go and see it with the family before it’s too late!
Nativity! The Musical performs at Birmingham Rep until 7 Jan 2023. Book your tickets.
Photo Credit: Pamela Raith
*gifted tickets*
