Alphabetti Theatre Newcastle – until 20th December 2025
Reviewed by Sandra Little
3***
A Queermas Carol is billed as, “The gayest ghost story ever told,” and is very loosely based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. This production gives this traditional story a modern twist and explores issues relating to the gay community. This version of Dickens’ story is predominantly told by two Marley’s ghosts played by Mack Sproates and Rhianne Bowes meanwhile Charles Dickens (Micky Cochrane) is also presented as a ghost who complains about this interpretation of his “traditional and melancholy ” story.
The production begins with a high energy rap style dance routine from Marley and Marley and the audience are told that they will be embarking on a, “chain shrinking” journey with some audience participation included in the process. At one point in the interpretation of Christmas past, Marley (Mack Sproates) is dressed as a combination of a Tamagotchi and a Furby. He performs a dance routine to, “Push the Button” and then the other Marley (Rhianne Bowes) takes part in an episode of Mastermind where she is asked intrusive and uncomfortable questions about her past. This was quite a poignant moment included in a generally light hearted show.
Part two of this production introduces the audience to the ghost of Christmas present. Rhianne changes into a traditional Victorian dark green costume and gives a great version of, “Santa Baby.” Meanwhile Mack becomes Bob Cratchit with his son being played by a puppet. There are lots of references in this sketch to ‘80s films including Terminator and Indiana Jones and also intense emotions are explored with references to issues faced by young people struggling with identity and sexuality. Eventually it becomes clear that Bob Cratchit’s son is trans gender and chooses to be called Tim.
As the story moves to the future and Christmas yet to come, the traditional phantom is played by Carmen Silk, who was the guest artist on Wednesday evening. A different artist will perform this part each evening for future performances. Carmen ditched her black garb and informed everyone that she was bringing hope and joy to the future. The audience were then treated to three great traditional songs including, “Life is a Cabaret” and “Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
The final part of this production involved a conversation with a puppet of a ghostly Charles Dickens and the final message from Marley and Marley was that we need space to tell everyone’s story and we shouldn’t listen to voices that dim our light.
Needless to say, this was an interesting version of a tale everyone knows so well and I must say there were some serious issues explored, however for me the contrast between light hearted and serious was too sharp and there were times when I wasn’t sure what the intention was.
However if you are looking for alternative Christmas entertainment then this could be for you.