Tag Archives: Lou Stein

A Christmas Carol
★★★★★

Chickenshed Theatre

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A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol

Chickenshed Theatre

Reviewed – 28th November 2018

★★★★★

“a rich mixture of captivating drama, music, dance and laughter”

 

Stepping into the Chickenshed Theatre foyer, one is greeted by animated warmth, a feeling which is projected on stage and also explains the deserved success of this first inclusive theatre company. The remarkable logistical feat of putting on ‘A Christmas Carol’ with four casts of 200 goes almost unnoticed as the place buzzes with impressively organised activity and we are swept along by the energy and enthusiasm.

Set in the 1930s, Dickens’ Victorian social issues are updated by a meagre benefits system, severe unemployment and women’s equality, as a background to the timeless story of miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and how he found himself capable of changing for the better. Writer and director, Lou Stein, brings together younger and older, veterans and newcomers, and produces a rich mixture of captivating drama, music, dance and laughter, tailor-made for the hundreds of Chickenshed members. The catchy collection of musical numbers by Dave Carey has rousing choruses and distinctive solos, giving opportunities for everyone to participate. A stylish, art deco set, designed by William Fricker, frames the show and his detailed costumes colour the characters. Beautifully imaginative lighting (Andrew Caddies) adds atmospheric touches, transporting us to the various times and places.

As well as working with remarkable coordination, the whole cast exudes immense discipline and composure; there is some fine singing and exciting choreography. The main roles are well defined and confidently portrayed, from Finn Walters’ stoic Bob Cratchit to the cool ‘Ghost of Christmas Present’ played by Michael Bossisse. But a big round of applause goes to Ashley Driver for a wonderful interpretation of Scrooge and his journey from misery to happiness.

Performing with such a supportive infrastructure opens a door to these children and young people. It allows them to gain confidence and discover new facets in themselves. Quite apart from being a wonderful and clever piece of entertainment, Chickenshed’s ‘A Christmas Carol’ has its own special quality which comes from a deep sense of being part of a community. It is worth the trip to the end of the Piccadilly line to experience one’s own irresistible Scrooge-like change of mood.

 

Reviewed by Joanna Hetherington

Photography by Ava de Souza

 


A Christmas Carol

Chickenshed Theatre until 5th January

 

Previously reviewed at this venue:
Don’t Stop Thinking About Tomorrow | ★★★★ | March 2018
Jekyll & Hyde | ★★★★ | September 2018
Monolog | ★★★ | February 2018
Mr Stink | ★★★★★ | July 2018
One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest | ★★★ | April 2018

 

Click here to see more of our latest reviews on thespyinthestalls.com

 

Mr Stink – 5 Stars

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Stink

Mr Stink

Chickenshed Theatre

Reviewed – 19th July 2018

★★★★★

“Engaging, touching and fun”

 

Following their successful adaptation of David Williams’ book The Midnight Gang last year, Chickenshed present their 2018 summer production, an adaptation of a Walliams’ best-seller, Mr Stink. 12 year old Chloe is unhappy at home, overshadowed by her “multi-talented” younger sister Annabelle, and has no friends at school. No friends until, one day, an unlikely friendship blossoms when she approaches a local tramp and his dog.

The show’s larger-than-life set (Keith Dunne) is wonderful to look at, with Chloe’s family home consisting of two floors and looking like it has jumped straight out of the pages of Walliams’ book. The show is set during the Christmas period, signified through the use of understated, yet effective, fairy lights, framing the set.

The role of Chloe is shared between two young actresses but, on this occasion, Lucy-Mae Beacock took on the part. Lucy-Mae most definitely shines as Chloe, displaying high levels of energy as well as a lovely singing voice. Mother Crumb, Chloe’s posh mum, is entertainingly played by Belinda McGuirk who creates numerous laughs through the delivery of her character’s lines. Although these particular performers stand out, the entire cast should be commended for their efforts and the work that has clearly gone into all of their performances.

The show includes some fantastic chorus work, with the performers working well together as townspeople. They showcase some great choreography and vocals and provide enjoyable interludes between the main scenes. Original songs by Musical Director, Dave Carey, and Director, Lou Stein, meet the usual high standard of Chickenshed and are catchy, as well as complimenting the story well.

There’s no doubt that Chickenshed have triumphed with this show. An already heart-warming story is brought to life by a talented group of performers and creative team. It seems fitting that a theatre company that celebrates diversity and inclusiveness should create a stage adaptation of a story that does the same. Engaging, touching and fun, I thoroughly enjoyed Mr. Stink – well done, Chickenshed!

 

Reviewed by Emily K Neal

Photography by Daniel Beacock

 


Mr Stink

Chickenshed Theatre until 5th August

 

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