I have been to many Eastern Angles Christmas shows over the years, but I have to say that this one is really up with the best of them.
Dickens’s famous story has been performed thousands of times over the years and in many different media and guises, so to make it fresh and vibrant is a challenge. But new Artistic Director Jake Smith has taken a local story of one Ebenezer Goddard, who made his money working for the Ipswich Gas Company and whose son Daniel used his legacy to found a social settlement on Fore street, and woven the well-known plot around this piece of Ipswich history to create a production with many local references.
Hence we start with the lamplighter as a character, along with a newspaper seller and a blacksmith who introduce us to the story. With clever use of a minimal but very effective set, this cast of four actors bring to life a multitude of characters as they tell the story of Scrooge and his transformation from miserly skinflint to redeemed philanthropist.
Ian Crowe is a marvellous Scrooge with all the character traits we know and love. He’s totally believable and a joy to watch in the role. Felicity Sparks is immensely versatile, switching between Mrs Cratchit, Scrooge’s nephew Freddy and Belle, his erstwhile love. Charlie Venables is superb as he morphs from Bob Cratchit, Mrs Fezziwig and various supporting roles, and David Monteith is outstanding as, among others, Marley, The Ghost of Christmas Present and Fezziwig himself.
The ghosts are amazing: ‘Past’ created from swirling white fabric and lights and ‘Future’ a genius idea of creating Black Shuck, the devil dog of East Anglian legend, who finally shows Scrooge the error of his ways.
Lighting design from experienced stage manager Penny Griffin and sound design from Sam Glossop create both atmosphere and movement to signify travel, and songs both lift the gloom and give an injection of humour into the proceedings.
There is so much energy and pace, the cast are flawlessly directed by Callum Berridge and the two children who play Tiny Tim and his sister (there are six who take it in turns) are a very sweet addition This show will make you laugh and make you cry in equal measure. But most of all, it will you bring you joy.
A great evening of entertainment—get a ticket if you can. You won’t be disappointed, and it’s suitable for all ages.
Reviewer: Suzanne Hawkes