The Elf Who Was Scared of Christmas ★★★★ Charing Cross Theatre (online) | Until January 4, 2021


The Elf Who Was Scared of Christmas is all about two elves, Cupcake (Gina Beck), her colleague, Figgy (Neil McDermott) and their journey towards achieving self confidence. Figgy spends his time trying to find a way to rid Cupcake of her irrational fears. Presented with oodles of charm and nicely designed, this show would admirably suit children, especially those under seven. Cupcake is encouraged to think of all the good things about Christmas, including snowmen and a smashing snow fight. There are some delightful songs and dances, none better than the title song performed in true musical theatre style. We discover that Cupcake is afraid of being seen by the children when she delivers their presents as she will thereby lose her magic powers. The elves enter a real house and hope that by sharing their fears and by being prepared to fail they will conquer their demons. The show's moral is not complicated but it is well presented and not overplayed; one learns that it can be right to be comfortable about being uncomfortable. There is much to enjoy here, especially the charming performances of Neil McDermott and Gina Beck who close the show with a delightful sing-song. The best idea to come from this lovely little show is 'You don't have to climb the whole staircase, just take the first step.'

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by D.S.J.

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