It’s not often you go to a show as much for the venue and setting as the on stage entertainment, but with this years CARDIFF CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL that’s exactly what you do. The shows are, of course, first class, but the venue itself is stunning.
Produced by Cardiff-based live events company LIVE UNDER THE STARS, the Festival really does have something for everyone, of all ages. The shows are performed in the ornate and intimate 550-seat Fortuna Spiegeltent, which is something really special in itself. This year, the setting is in the beautiful surroundings of Sophia Gardens and will transport you to a nostalgic and magical world.
As we said, there are two main shows based in the Spiegeltent, both making a welcome return from last years debut.
SANTA’S WISH tells the enchanting story of Snowflake and her journey to becoming one of Santa’s elves.
Written by MATTHEW & LAURA BRIND this festive family favourite sees the return of Welsh television and stage actor DYFRIG MORRIS and Cardiff actress and singer MILLIE DAVIES playing the lead roles of Santa and Snowflake.
They’re joined by new cast members ALEX ROBERTS who plays the roles of Crackers the Elf and Freddy; BRIANA PAINE who plays the roles of Tinsel the Elf and Lily; and LISA DAVIES who plays the roles of Jingel the Elf and Eddie.
We were there for one of the first performances of the show and can tell you, once again it is something really special. The story, music, cast and the incredible setting, all go to make this a truly magical Christmas experience.
Here’s what the audience thought about Santa’s Wish, and the Spiegeltent, at the end of the performance……
As you can see from our video the audience loved this festive experience. The show itself is something the whole family will enjoy. It’s colourful and fun, with songs which feel instantly familiar – I’d seen the production last year so enjoyed a quiet singalong at times. The cast are really first class and have a great rapport with the audience.
The production feels completely immersive, especially when the cast venture into the audience, stopping occasionally to gesture to the very excited children. I think the venue itself really helps with this experience too. No matter where you are sitting you feel close to the on, and off stage action.
Santa’s Wish is a singing and dancing delight and will make all your Christmas dreams come true.
The second show, or should we call it an experience, is definitely not one for the kids and a great chance for those of us 18+ to let our hair down and enjoy some of the finest talent, gathered together in one intimate venue.
CASTELLANA is back once again with a brand-new production featuring a new line-up of incredible world class performers. The evening is hosted by the outrageous and hilarious drag artist VELMA CELLII, great voice, great comedy and just downright brilliantly shocking at times. Joining her as fellow-MC is Cardiff singer JUSTINE MARIE MEAD, who belted out some great songs, with a little bit of Welshness thrown in for good measure.
On stage you get to see international burlesque star MISS BETTY ROSE; aerial artist JIMMY WONG; skilled duo PAUL & LOUISE who perform on roller-skates and as a hand to hand balancing act. They are frighteningly good , and on more than one occasion had the audience holding their breath.
There’s also acrobatics and agile hoop dancer CHLOE HANNAH LLOYD; and sparkly cabaret showgirl FORCE MAJURE and incredible acrobat BEN BROWN, who also perform together as aerial act LITTLE FINCH.
Honestly, you can’t take your eyes off the stage for a second, it is stunning, breathtaking and glamorous, with more than a touch of ‘hot spicy saucy’ thrown in for good measure.
I think the reaction from last night’s audience sums up the experience much better than any words from me can do……
We talked a lot about the Spiegeltent in both our reviews and I really think that in itself is part of the experience. Kids love it, and I can assure you that adults do just as much.
It’s also really close to all the city centre action. Minutes away from the shopping, Winter Wonderland and all the capital Christmas lights. If you’re hesitating, don’t, we all need something new to do at this time of year, while keeping all the magic of Christmas.
One other thing, the tickets are definitely reasonably priced, and we applaud the producers for doing that. We’re all strapped for cash right now but still need a little festive treat, and this is a really good one.
The CARDIFF CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL countdown is on with tickets starting at £15* for Santa’s Wish and £25* for Castellana. The HYNT carer scheme is available to customers and available to purchase online. Both shows run through to the 24th December. For more information, and to get tickets, go HERE
*Booking fees apply.
Group bookings should call on 02921 520052 during office hours or email groups@thecastle.wales
The venue is accessible for wheelchairs. Please message the team with any specific requirements.
Just one other thing, the pizza you can buy there is really good.
