Sheffield Lyceum Theatre – until 9 November 2024
Reviewed by Sal E Marino
5*****
Northern Ballet’s A Christmas Carol is an enchanting adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novella, reimagined through the medium of dance. Directed and designed by Christopher Gable CBE, this seasonal production has established itself as a beloved festive tradition, with a captivating blend of storytelling, evocative choreography by Massimo Moricone, and an exciting score that brings the well-known tale of Ebenezer Scrooge to life.
The ballet’s structure is faithful to the original story, with the key scenes of Scrooge’s transformation portrayed through vivid and spectacular dance sequences. The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come are particularly striking, with each spirit presented as a distinct, visually distinct entity, their movement and costumes effectively capturing their otherworldly qualities.
The cast is a well-oiled machine, with each dancer bringing their character to life through both their physicality and expression. Scrooge is often the focal point of the ballet, and the role demands a performer with immense technical skill and emotional depth. Scrooge’s transition from miserly isolation to joyous redemption is beautifully executed through the dancer’s nuanced portrayal, supported by the changes in his physicality as he ages throughout the piece.
Supporting roles, like Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, and Scrooge’s former love, Belle, are just as compelling and the Fezziwig’s provided much delight and laughter. These characters help reinforce the themes of compassion, family, and the need for personal growth. The Cratchit family’s joyful, tender moments together contrast starkly with Scrooge’s cold, lonely existence, enhancing the emotional weight of the piece and a few tears were shed over Tiny Tim’s untimely demise.
The set design by Lez Brotherston creates a perfect atmosphere of Victorian London, with its swirling fog, icy streets, and sumptuous interiors that feel both expansive and intimate. The backdrop, when combined with atmospheric lighting, ensures the tone shifts seamlessly from the grim reality of Scrooge’s world to the fantastical realms of the Christmas spirits. The ghostly apparitions are brought to life through intricate costumes and dramatic lighting, with the transformation of Scrooge’s surroundings adding an extra layer of magic to the production.
The music score, was a recording courtesy of the Royal New Zealand Ballet. Recorded by Orchestra Wellington in 2014 at the St James Theatre, Wellington, New Zealand and conducted by Nigel Gaynor, is an integral part of the experience. The music mirrors the emotional beats of the story, swelling with orchestral grandeur during the scenes of transformation and quieting for more sombre moments.
Northern Ballet’s A Christmas Carol is a beautiful, moving, and highly accessible for all the family. This version of Dickens’ beloved story, is perfect for all ages and ballet enthusiasts alike. Through engaging choreography and strong performances, it succeeds in encapsulating the heart of Dickens’ moral fable while providing the spectacle of a traditional Christmas ballet. It is a production that reminds audiences of the power of kindness, redemption, and the joy of giving, making it a perfect treat for the festive season.
If you’re looking for a ballet that combines classic storytelling with a festive atmosphere, this production is not to be missed.