If you’re looking for the perfect way to get into the Christmas “spirit”, then look no further than A Christmas Carol at Newcastle’s Northern Stage. Who doesn’t love the story of the miserly Scrooge changing his ways through his encounters with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future?
This Northern Stage Production is a modern interpretation of the classic story. It is a play encompassing acting, singing, special effects, acrobatics and circus skills; making it very accessible to a younger generation. It’s definitely not just a play for children though; the cast mesmerised the adults with their harmonies, poignant acting and on stage set changes (all of which was done in traverse staging – meaning the actors had to engage audiences on both sides of the stage).
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Most members of the cast played multiple roles, hence the actors had quick costume and characterisation changes. Malik Ibheis, who played all the different ghosts, not only had costume and characteristic changes, but he also entered the stage from many-a-shocking entrance, using various impressive movements and circus skills.
Our children, aged 10, 8 and 5 absolutely loved the play. We had just listened to the BBC audio adaptation the previous week, so they were familiar with the story; but they loved seeing it brought to life in such a visually engaging way. Guidance for the production is 5+, but I would suggest that sensitive children may find it a bit scary at times. Smoke machines, darkness, sound effects and the eery acting of Malik Ibheis, may be too much for some children. I did see one small child leave with her parent, although she was sat on the front row. If you aren’t sure how your child will find the play, perhaps sitting at the end of a row, or a bit further back might be a good idea. Or, if you know your child will find it too much but you’d still like some Christmas theatre, then another production called Wolf! is showing at Northern Stage this festive season. Wolf! has been devised with children under 5 in mind and incorporates puppetry.
Charles’ Dickens timeless classic is as poignant today as it was during the Victorian era in which it was written. We may not face the same trials as the original audience – thankfully workhouses, child labour in dangerous factories, malnutrition and disease caused by urban overcrowding is largely a thing of the past. But we can still learn lessons from this story written during the Industrial Revolution.
Although we are more prosperous now, the human condition hasn’t changed. The temptation to hoard and be miserly is just as real now as it was then. A Christmas Carol is a great reminder that overconsumption and individualism don’t fulfil us. Instead embracing community, generosity and charity this Christmastime is much more in keeping with the spirit of the season. So if you want your kids to watch something about the true spirit of Christmas (and not just another film about Santa coming to deliver gifts!) consider A Christmas Carol your perfect family outing.
