A Christmas Carol at the Citizen’s Theatre (Tramway) is a proper tribute to Dickens’ story. Written by Neil Bartlett and directed in Dominic Hill’s unique style.

Benny Young’s Scrooge is a recognisable character, and not just as the literary one, but like someone we’ve all met. As a whole, while being fun and festive, this offering is less of a comedy and more of a play focusing on the theme of redemption and a man forced into changing his ways.

It opens on a steampunk style set with Victorian lamposts and a nightsky with full moon. The small orchestra sits at the back of the stage. The ensemble cast are constantly on the move throughout this play, which works well as it makes Ebenezer stand out as a man caught up in a whirlwind of events and emotions. The lighting by Ben Ormerod works well to that effect as well.

The cast are energetic and the show is fast-paced at only an hour and a quarter long (no intermission). The Victorian costumes are cracking, and there are playful and lively elements woven throughout – such as characters throwing snow, engaging in snowball fights, and a bed flying through the nightsky.

The soundscape by Nikola Kodjabashia, which runs all the way through, is great and whimsical, and helps tell the story. And the puppetry by Rachael Canning is stunning, particularly the Ghost of Christmas Past – a lampfaced, giggling, child-doll.

It’s a lovely piece of theatre with great style, technical excellence and strong imagery. It runs at the Citizens until 24th December.

Ailie Hunter
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