By Michelle Rawlins
If you are looking for a heart-warming, feel-good showstopper to get you in the mood for the festive season, then White Christmas will leave you feeling as though you have been doused with a sumptuous sprinkling of snow-infused sparkle.
Everything about this latest production by Sheffield Theatres is joyful, from the glitz and glamour, romances and friendships, to the wonderful array of Irving Berlin’s much-loved songs.
This spectacular seasonal adaptation closely follows the much-loved script of the 1954 film, but interjected into this festive bonanza is a huge helping of Christmas spirit, which leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
It opens with Susan, the angelic-faced granddaughter of weather-worn inn-keeper, Hank Waverley (Ewen Cummins) and the indomitable front-of-house manager – both determined to make sure Hank smiles his way through the holidays, despite the lack of snow which is threatening to send him into impending bankruptcy and ruin.
Also fighting the retired General’s corner are two of his former army entertainers, turned showbiz wannabes. There’s Bob (George Blagden) and Phil (Stuart Neal) who get entangled in a romantic tryst with showgirl sisters, Betty (Grace Mouat) and Judy (Natasha Mould) where they all end up in the rural and cosy setting of Vermont for the seasonal vacation.
The simple to follow, but pacy plot is under the direction of Paul Foster. And it’s a case of amusing misunderstandings, comical one-liners and an abundance of love as everyone secretly pulls together to save the inn from ruin.
Aside from the wholesome storyline, adapted from David Ives’ and Paul Blake’s book, the audience is served a flawless delight of sparkling singing, dazzling dancing and a stylish set. It’s hard not to sing along to the old classics, especially when the audience are encouraged to join in from the opening number. It perfectly sets the tone for further musical interludes including Sisters, I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm and How Deep is the Ocean. Mouat’s solo rendition of Love, You Didn’t Do Right by Me, was a standout moment, and enough to send goose pimples down the back of even the grumpiest of Grinches.
The impeccable dance routines, exquisitely choreographed by Alistair David, are superbly sharp, with a mix of big stage ensemble numbers, to beautifully sleek duets. But the real treat comes in the form of a mesmerising and technically brilliant tap routine, that just keeps on going.
The retro style set, designed by Janey Bird, encompasses the Golden Years. From a larger than life old-fashioned, grainy, black and white TV, to a simple but effective moving train carriage. Comedy capers are aplenty from perfectly partnered Bob and Phil. And there’s an atmospheric barn and and a fabulous Christmas tree to ensure the finale is every bit as magical as you would hope it to be.
This a good old sentimental family show, delivering a sumptuous helping of festive cheer, that can’t fail to make you feel like Christmas has well and truly arrived.
Showing Until January 13 2024
Tickets here
Images by Johan Persson