REVIEW: Santa Claus - The Musical

New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth

By Emma Allen

IF you’re struggling to get in the Christmas spirit this year then I can recommend buying a ticket to see Santa Claus - the Musical at the New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth.

This uplifting festive feast of song and dance sprinkled with just the right amount of magic should do the trick.

Lavish sets, elegant costumes, singing animated reindeers, dancing penguins, comedy crows, and not forgetting the jovial man in red himself, Santa, what more could you ask for?

Oh, yes of course, a talented cast of actors and dancers to bring the magic to life.

Former A1 boyband singer, Mark Read, is Chief Elf Joe who battles against the wicked Ice Queen to prevent her from ruining Christmas with her evil plan to stop the reindeers from pulling Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. Joe is assisted by Santa’s devoted PA, Miss Drift, expertly played by dame extraordinaire Jason Sutton.

Littered throughout with classic Christmas hits such as Here Comes Santa Claus, Jingle Bell Rock, Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, this show is a thrilling alternative to the more traditional pantomime.

The cast all give highly polished performances and particularly light up the stage with their vocal talents. Nicki French plays the Ice Queen with a touch of menace ensuring the audience boo and hiss her evil antics. She is assisted by her partner-in-crime Jack Frost (Paul Winterford) who really doesn’t want to be bad.

A special mention must go to the spectacular dancers and the sparkling choreography. The eight adult and eight child dancers really shone in every scene they were in and really engaged with the audience.

So to truly get in the festive spirit, book your tickets now at newtheatreroyal.com or call the box office on 023 9264 9000. Santa Claus – the Musical runs until December 31.