Nativity! The Musical

The venue is quite intimate, and I was keen to see how Director Scott Welch had managed to fit in all the
action in the script. He did and it was a strong and fast paced show.

Opened by Adam Beckman, playing Mr Poppy, who set the tone for the show very well. The opening scene
was well done as we were introduced to the other 3 main characters, first as children and then as adults.

From then on it was a fast-paced production, exactly suited to the story and well performed by all the cast.
We saw the two teachers, Pip Gray playing a slightly stiff and formal Paul Maddens and Sean Bailey as
Gordon Shakespeare, his character became more maniacal as the show progressed, exactly as the author
had envisaged. Completing the lineup of Principles was Jenny Lewin, playing Jennifer Lore. Jenny has a
lovely singing voice and is a joy to watch on stage. Adam’s Portrayel of Mr Poppy was excellent, he
produced a character that was totally childlike and we all loved him, despite his tendency to mess things up.
The rapport between him and the children in the show was terrific. Bringing a real joy to the production.

Backing up the Principals were Lewis Barker, playing the rather biased Critic, with great characterisation
and, Jo Pierce playing the rather jaded Principal Patricia Bevan. The rest of the main cast all worked hard
to portray their characters, sometimes just one but sometimes multiple characters. The pace of the show
did not drop, and this is a credit to the people who did the scene changes as much as the performers
themselves. I also have to mention Sheba, playing Cracker. A beautiful looking dog who did not falter
despite some of the mayhem going on around her.

The children were an absolute delight, the five girls from Oakmoor were suitably hoity toity and all of them
performed their gymnastics and dancing with great style as well as showing us that they thought they were
a cut above the children from St Bernadettes. The children from St Bernadettes were a lovely mixed bunch
and there were some excellent performances. I would particularly commend Joey Wilkinson for his rap. I
know that the cast used far more mics than they usually do in a production; but there were still a few of the
children who did not have mics, and their vocal projection could have been stronger. It is a shame when
there has to be a choice between who has and does not have a mic.

The scenery was simple but very effective and, as I have already mentioned, beautifully managed to keep
the pace of the show high. The costumes were well done, especially the speciality ones like the uniforms.
Lighting was excellent and the principals were aware of their spots and comfortably adjusted to their
location. This is not always the case but here, it worked really well to keep our attention. The small band
performed well and supported the singing without overpowering the singers.

I was well looked after by the Front of House team and had a thoroughly fun time. Overall, this was a joyful,
Christmas production and it was lovely to learn that the show was sold out. Well done to all concerned.

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