Step Behind The Stage
A Christmas Carol
The Old Vic, London - 11/12/24
Review by Alex King
Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan
In 2017, The Old Vic first staged a production of Charles Dickens’ festive classic ‘A Christmas Carol’. Since then, it has become a staple of the theatrical Christmas season, returning every year due to popular demand. While some of the cast have returned over the years, it is the casting of the iconic Ebenezer Scrooge that excites audiences the most. A multitude of recognisable names from stage and screen have taken on the mantle, and this year it is John Simm stepping into the role. Having wanted to see this production for many years, I finally got the chance to experience this classic ghost story.
Before the show even begins, the audience are treated to a delightfully inviting preshow of a trio of musicians playing live music, whilst satsumas and mince pies are handed out to those in their seats. You immediately feel cosy, listening to the music and watching satsumas fly through the theatre as audience members call out to get involved before the house lights go down.
Once the show officially starts, we are introduced to our cast of storytellers, who invite us to listen in as they tell the story of A Christmas Carol, a ghost story at Christmas. This is followed by a whimsical, spooky “oooooh”, which earned a small chuckle from the audience and instantly set the tone. Much of Jack Thorne’s cleverly written adaptation uses excerpts from the original novella, beginning with the iconic opening lines, blending them with additional material that brings levity to the tale whilst also giving greater emotional depth to the characters.
Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan
With the cast full of warmth, it is not long before Ebenezer Scrooge makes his first appearance and quickly dispels the joy. John Simm enters hidden beneath a tall coat and hat, immediately signalling the darkness he brings to this world. From that moment on, Simm barely leaves the stage, aside from the interval, delivering a performance that is as cruel as it is tender. When we first meet the miserly Scrooge, Simm spits every word with bitterness and moves with total disregard for anyone else. As the night unfolds and Ebenezer begins to open himself up, Simm’s physicality changes with him, growing louder, more frantic, then wonderfully swept up in the energy of Christmas Present, before reaching a deeply emotional climax and a giddy, joyful transformation on Christmas morning. He was a joy to watch throughout.
That is not to say the rest of the cast were anything short of exceptional. Rob Compton’s Bob Cratchit was immediately endearing and sincere, whilst Juliette Crosbie brought a real depth and tenderness to Belle. Aside from Simm as Scrooge, every cast member plays multiple roles, which makes the production feel far larger than it first appears. Using a thrust stage that stretches deep into the theatre, designed by Rob Howell, Matthew Warchus’ direction allows the world to feel bustling and alive, yet painfully cold and isolating when focused on Scrooge’s lonely existence.
Everything in this production feels meticulously crafted. The lighting and sound design are deeply emotive, and the music, including a beautiful use of handbells to bookend the show, is woven throughout with real care. A tale as timeless as this has an ending known to everyone, but when we arrive on Christmas morning the audience are invited to take part in the creation of the Christmas feast. It is a spectacle that truly must be seen to be believed, and one that cements this production as a must-see during the festive season.
Nearly two centuries on, this story remains as relevant and important as ever. This production has raised over £1.5 million in donations across the past seven years, with this year’s funds supporting Waterloo Foodbank.
Cast on the Night:
John Simm - Ebenezer Scrooge
Rob Compton - Bob Cratchit
Juliette Crosbie - Belle
Geraint Downing - Ferdy and George
Kimmy Edwards - Mrs Cratchit
Jenny Fitzpatrick - Ghost of Christmas Present and Mrs Fezziwig
Mark Goldthorp - Father and Marley
Ahmed Hamad - Fred
Julie Jupp - Ghost of Christmas Past
Baker Mukasa - Nicholas and Schoolmaster
Alastair Parker - Fezziwig
Georgina Sadler - Little Fan
Lillie-Pearl Wildman - Jess
Connor Wood - Young Ebenezer
Freddie Marshall-Ellis - Tiny Tim