MADDIE MOATE’S VERY CURIOUS CHRISTMAS

Garrick Theatre

★★★★★

“a unique and quirky production”

Are you looking for a fun filled family show this festive season? Look no further than a trip to the Garrick Theatre for Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas – Returning to the West End this Christmas, join Maddie and friends for a captivating, educational hour for both the children and adults.

Written and created by Maddie Moate, the story bases around Santa’s workshop but with a few spanners thrown in the works. With not much time on their hands before Mrs Claus pays a workshop visit, Tinker the trainee elf (Kira MacCarter) and Goggles, the Head of Elf Safety (Zain Abrahams) must race against time to fix the workshop in the name of science.

Verity Sadler’s set and costume design comes across as both creative and charismatic whilst also bringing a jolly feel to it. Before the beginning of the show you are instantly met with a brightly lit Christmas tree on stage with Christmas labelled sign posts which gives you an idea of how the show is going to play out. The vibrant, fluorescent lighting (Naomi McKinlay) is a great attribute to mesmerise and grab the attention of the audience. Liam McDermott’s sound design also brings much delight and surprise.

This production, with direction from Nic Doodson and Joanna Adeyinka-Burford has audience participation aplenty, including gingerbread, sprouts, a few surprises and many a science experiment for all ages. Slick, energetic choreography with punchy music interludes also knit well into the show.

The most mention though should go to the three actors as well as one virtual appearance from Mrs Claus (Jennie Dale) who all do a marvellous job at bringing the Christmas magic. Maddie Moate keeps her audience drawn in throughout with quick witted humour, excellent line delivery and involving her audience throughout the entirety of the show. Kira MacCarter and Zain Abrahams’ cheeky and joyful portrayal of elves make for an entertaining watch as they accompany Maddie. Jennie Dale is also a brilliant Mrs Claus.

The show of course include the common Christmas show anecdotes such as references to the ‘ghost gag’ though in this case it’s changed slightly to an elf gag to fit the feel of the production.

The piece overall is fantastically put together which brings audiences of all ages together to enjoy what is a unique and quirky production. If you’re looking for a delightful hour of smiles this should definitely be one to put on your Christmas show list!

MADDIE MOATE’S VERY CURIOUS CHRISTMAS

Garrick Theatre

Reviewed on 14th December 2025

by Emily East

Photography by Mark Senior

Maddie Moate

★★★★

“A captivating and moving story”

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to question your sexuality? Meet Mark, a troubled teen trying to navigate life who finds it difficult to open up about his concerns surrounding sex and family/school life.

Written by Simon Perrott and directed by Gerald Armin, In Conversation With Graham Norton is an insight into how the younger generation explore their sexuality and the challenges it can bring. Mark, played by Jamie Kaye does a remarkable job at bringing his character’s story to life. His jaunty, true to life performance and excellent delivery of dialogue has the audience gripped from start to finish.

Graham Norton has a big impact in this hour long play (though not actually in person!). Mark feels like Graham is the only person to whom he can talk to in depth about what he’s going through and his yet to experience intimate relationships. Naturally talking to a photograph of him propped up on his bedside chair is a problem shared and a weight lifted. Family life is somewhat of a rollercoaster describing a sister who can be a bit of a bitch. This story also touches on awkward situations in public spaces and how young men (Mark) have a frequent need to masturbate leading to well … let’s just say a rather aroused but shocking encounter with maybe a family pet.

The subject of bullying at school comes up which even includes Mark’s sister of all people! This feeling of loneliness leads to him joining an online ‘Me and You’ group for individuals who, like him are finding it difficult to accept themselves either because of who they are or their appearance. He finds a good friend in someone from the group but be prepared, it’s an emotional one.

Gareth McCloud’s sound design brings clarity to the production with music influences which resonate with young people in similar situations of trying to find themselves. Jonathan Simpson’s vibrant lighting design adds to the overall feel of Waterloo East’s unique, homelike set design which is cleverly displayed as a bedroom with a single bed, a radio and a bookcase of meaningful books and vinyl.

In Conversation With Graham Norton is a very well produced play, tackling awkward subjects people would find difficult to talk about in every day life. A captivating and moving story with some dark turns make it a definite must see!

Tag Archives: Emily East

MADDIE MOATE’S VERY CURIOUS CHRISTMAS

★★★★★

Garrick Theatre

MADDIE MOATE’S VERY CURIOUS CHRISTMAS

Garrick Theatre

★★★★★

“a unique and quirky production”