THERE’S a new musical at Salisbury, created specially for young children and their families, but equally delightful for all generations.
Musician and singer Glyn Kerslake and Playhouse artistic director Gareth Machin have got together to create a version of the Clement Clarke Moore poem The Night Before Christmas, and adding the essential audience participation and magic. With a cast of four, including Kerslake at the piano, it tells the story of father, mother and daughter Martha, whose unusual Christmas wish captures the attention of St Nicholas on his flight through the skies.
Rebecca Treharne and Sophie Evans are mother and daughter and Adrian Grove (a graduate of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and a memorable Macheath) takes on the shape-shifting paternal roles.
The show is beautifully sung and danced, with just enough technical stuff to keep a 21st century audience happy. But of course the story is about love and warmth and happiness, and how simple things bring more lasting pleasures.
The Night Before Christmas is the perfect introduction to live theatre for the younger children whose attention span might not encompass a whole pantomime. With a running time of 60 minutes, chances to sing and even to take part, it should satisfy most tastes.
The show is on at various day times until New Year’s Eve. Visit the website, www.salisburyplayhouse.com, for full details.
GP-W