Well, it’s official, Christmas is but weeks away and it’s time for our first NATIVITY. This is the musical version of the much loved movie which starred Martin Freeman. We’re sure you know it, in fact, it’s likely to be a festive favourite in many South Wales households.
So, opening night had a packed crowd, some slightly late because of the football in town, but nevertheless wildly enthusiastic. If you’ve seen the movies you’ll know exactly what you’re going to get and the stage version delivered every bit, and more. It was funny, more than a little emotional (how could it not be) and had songs that has us all clapping and tapping our feet from beginning to end.
Don’t take our word for it though, here’s what the opening night audience thought and we also spoke to two of the shows stars, Scott Garnham (Mr Maddens) and Scott Paige (Mr Poppy).
The jokes came thick and fast, and I have to confess to many laugh out loud moments. They were suitable for kids, of course, but a few were definitely targeted at us older kids in the audience. Do you need to have seen the movies to enjoy NATIVITY – THE MUSICAL, absolutely not, it works on its own. But I have to say, all of the people we spoke with came into the theatre as big fans of the movie franchise.
Feel-good, funny and full of joy, this cracker of a musical was adapted for the stage by Debbie Isitt, the creator of the much-loved films. Following a smash-hit 2018 tour and London run, NATIVITY! THE MUSICAL is here for the week and is starring Love Island favourite (and daughter of Danny), Dani Dyer.
Dani shot into the public eye in 2018 when she appeared on and consequently won the fourth series of ITV reality show Love Island. Her acting credits include the films Freerunner, Vendetta and Doghouse. She was also in the London production last Christmas.
So onto the story, in case you haven’t seen it. Every child in every school has one Christmas wish – to star in a Nativity – and at St Bernadette’s School they’re attempting to mount a musical version! The only trouble is that teacher Mr Maddens has promised that a Hollywood producer is coming to see the show to turn it into a film. Join him, his teaching assistant the crazy Mr Poppy, hilarious children and a whole lot of sparkle and shine as they struggle to make everyone’s Christmas wish come true.
Featuring all of your favourite sing-a-long hits from the movies including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s the Brightest Star and a whole host of new songs, this musical really ‘is a heartfelt hit.’
NATIVITY! THE MUSICAL gets to the Wales Millennium Centre this week till Saturday 23rd November. Performances each evening at 7pm with matinees on Thursday and Saturday at 1:30pm. Tickets are priced between £18 and £64 to get yours, go here. NATIVITY We have checked and there is limited availability on some performances so better be quick.
And if you can’t wait till you see it, turn up the volume and enjoy a little sin-a-long with SPARKLE & SHINE…..
