one4review | On 08, Aug 2013

August may not seem the obvious time to worry about Father Christmas’ bladder control, but actually, it’s Christmas Eve, and his assistant “Elfie” is very concerned. The problem is all the cups of tea and food left out for Santa, that he just can’t say no to.

There are some fun songs, and the odd parent gag in this show, as well as lots of slapstick humour. First Saint Nick is prevented from using a loo by an excited, noisy dog, then when Elfie does get him a reward of milk, he tries to hide it and wakes a child.

She forces him to drink it, and off he dashes to the loo again, returning in time to join in a song and dance about how to prevent yourself needing a wee too urgently.

Finally, on his return home, he’s lost his key, and an audience member comes to the rescue. This is all based on Nicholas Allen’s popular book, with much counting and repetition, that could perhaps have given more audience participation opportunities.

Overall, it’s a sweet tale, told with energy, enthusiasm, and plenty of silliness.

 

theSpace @ Venue 45

To Aug 10^th at 11:35. 12th-17th and 19^th – 24^th at 13:50.

Reviewed by Gill