REVIEW | The Nutcracker - A Very Adult Pantomime, Turbine Theatre
Written by Cathie
Disclaimer: We were invited to watch this performance in return for an honest review
Running times: 2 hrs including a 20 minute interval
General warnings: swearing, strong language, sexual references and innuendo, drug references, audience participation, loud noises, moments of darkness and flashing lights.
The Nutcracker: A Very Adult Pantomime is a retelling of the original famous Tchaikovsky ballet but with a very modern twist. Poor Carly has had a terrible year, her love rat ex has dumped her, her father died in a collision with a Just Stop Oil protest and now her Mum is insistent on still throwing their annual festive party and popping Xanax every time the doorbell or oven rings. However, everything is set to change thanks to a nutcracker gift from her skeevy drunk uncle. Carly will get the nutcracker’s teeth into revenge, will discover new things about herself whilst hitting the London tourist traps and even find love. It is anything but sweet, despite a gyrating Sugar Plum fairy, but it is definitely highly entertaining.
The cast are fantastic, they all play multiple roles and work well with a brilliant chemistry that sparkles more than Winter Wonderland. Joshua Coley (writer) stole the show for me in his roles as the feisty panto dame. His dancing and singing as the Snow Queen and Carly’s mum had my sides literally aching with laughter. Holly Ashman brings strength and liveliness to her performance and pulls the story along well. Theo Walker also shines as the nutcracker, sugar plum fairy and snowflake sibling. His rendition of a candy store was absolutely hilarious. Grace Whyte was also fabulous as Carly’s Tate quoting ex and played the role of villain with exceptional panto style. Her most hilarious role was as the Christmas tree and I was in fits of giggles whenever that character appeared.
I particularly liked the inventiveness of the set and props used to showcase so many different locations. The underground tube scenery and underneath Battersea Park were particularly hilarious highlights. It also makes use of the surprisingly large stage and feels very Christmassy.
There are times when the plot feels lost in the glitter of the jokes but you’ll be laughing so hard you won’t mind. There are plenty of jokes and panto classic moments such as “he’s behind you” and slightly incestuous Christmas cake making. There are some political references but it’s mostly Christmas insanity sprinkled with alcohol. The story flows along well and is fun but fast-paced throughout. One of my favourite parts of this show was the parody songs sprinkled throughout. The Barbie and Heather’s songs were definite favourites I need to hear sung again.
You’ll leave with a spring in your step and a bit more Christmas joy glowing in your heart than before. If you need a show filled with riotous fun, filthy gags and outrageous amounts of innuendo then I would recommend this show for you.
At Turbine Theatre until 23 December
