Christmas Present & Correct

Lichfield Garrick Theatre & Studio

6th December 2024 - 5th January 2025

Lichfield Garrick Theatre & Studio present New Old Friends, 'Christmas Present & Correct' written and directed by Feargus Woods Dunlop. Featuring Kirsty Cox (Dorothy Richards), Rosie Coles (Saffron Smith), Mark Collier (Wyllis Guthrie) and Stuart Tavendale (Herbert Richards and many others!!!)

'Christmas Present & Correct' is a festive farce by the theatre company New Old Friends known for their comedic productions. This play is a part of their repertoire of lighthearted, slapstick-style performances, often inspired by classic British humour. The story typically revolves around chaotic and funny misunderstandings, often set in holiday-themed scenarios, making it a perfect Christmas entertainment. This years festive farce is currently playing at the Lichfield Garrick from December 6, 2024, to January 5, 2025 and the production follows their tradition of small casts playing multiple roles, combining witty wordplay and theatrical set-pieces.

It is set during the holiday season and revolves around the recording of a Christmas special for a fictional radio show. The festive setting, themes of familial bonds, and comedic chaos typical of the holiday genre make it a lighthearted celebration of the season. While its humour and storyline can appeal to a wide audience, the Christmas backdrop and decorations strongly situate it as a seasonal production.

The plot centres on siblings Herbert and Dorothy Richards. Herbert voices all the characters in The Cavalry, a hit radio show written by Dorothy. Chaos ensues when a representative from their American network unexpectedly arrives during the recording of their Christmas special. Herbert's fraudulent arrangement, where he collects salaries for each fictional actor, risks exposure, threatening their careers.

The play features four actors: Kirsty Cox, Rosie Coles, Stuart Tavendale, and Mark Collier. While typically known for multi-role performances, this production intriguingly assigns each actor a single primary role, though the farcical spirit of impersonation and deception remains central. The show blends elements of radio drama with the company's hallmark style to deliver festive hilarity.

The acting is a masterclass in nuanced storytelling, blending humour and heart with precision. The cast brings the script to life with vibrant energy, each performer embodying their character with a depth that makes the narrative both relatable and compelling. Moments of comedic timing are executed flawlessly, eliciting laughter without overshadowing the poignant emotional beats of the play. The ensemble works seamlessly, demonstrating a strong sense of connection and chemistry that enhances the dynamic relationships portrayed on stage. Whether delivering witty dialogue or heartfelt monologues, the actors maintain a balance that keeps the audience engaged and invested from start to finish.

With the cast delivering heartfelt and nuanced performances that brought depth and authenticity to the production. Special mention must be made of Stuart Tavendale, whose portrayal stood out for its emotional depth and captivating stage presence. Tavendale brought a unique charm and sincerity to his role or many roles! Skilfully balancing humour and poignancy to leave a lasting impression. Whether in moments of lighthearted comedy or quiet introspection, his performance was a highlight, elevating the overall impact of the play.

The moral of the production revolves around the themes of honesty, the complexities of familial relationships, and the consequences of deceit. At its heart, the play demonstrates the chaos and unintended fallout that arise from dishonesty and in this case, Herbert's fraudulent claims about the radio show salaries. As the siblings face potential exposure, the story highlights the importance of integrity and cooperation while celebrating resilience and the bond of family during challenging times.

The festive setting also underscores a lighter message: the value of laughter and togetherness, especially during the holiday season, even when circumstances spiral out of control.

The set is designed to resemble a vintage radio studio, immersing the audience in the 1940s atmosphere of live radio production. It features period-appropriate details such as retro microphones, sound effects equipment, and a recording booth, setting the stage for the comedic chaos that unfolds. Festive decorations and whimsical design elements add a playful holiday charm, reflecting the farcical nature of the play. The compact layout of the studio theatre at the Lichfield Garrick ensures an intimate experience, bringing audiences close to the action and emphasizing the humour and intricacies of the story.

Would I recommend 'Christmas Present & Correct?'

An absolute, and definite yes especially if you're a fan of lighthearted, comedic plays that embody the festive spirit. Produced by New Old Friends, the play is filled with clever wordplay, slapstick humour, and farcical scenarios, making it a delightful choice for the holiday season. It offers a unique blend of nostalgia for vintage radio plays and the chaos of a Christmas farce, ensuring plenty of laughs. The intimate studio setting at Lichfield Garrick also enhances the experience, drawing the audience into the absurdity and charm of the story.

If you're seeking something fun and festive to get into the holiday mood, this play promises an entertaining evening for both families and adults. It's an absolute “Festive Farce, Festooned with Fun!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A five star performance!