Review of ‘The Secret That Saved Christmas’: “Well-behaved delivery, but no present wow factor”

The Hampton Hill Theatre opens its stage to this new children’s piece – bringing adventure, friendship, and new layers of magic through this original narrative inspired by the festive season. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show, to let us know if this holiday fantasy ends up feeling too santa-monious.

Somebody’s been naughty this year… Yeah, I know what you’re thinking: “oooh – you’re so original. Some people may think it’s just another stupid dirty pun, and you shouldn’t do it because it’s a children’s show – but since it’s you, it’s great, we love you, give my candy cane a bite…”. (You’ve brought up that last image yourself…). If you’re arching your eyebrows as you’re reading this, I’ll just say one thing: Christmas is that time of the year when kindness should be shown the most; I’ve just decided to let myself be its sole benefactor.

But moving on to today’s show (and for the umpteenth time in the last couple of weeks, it has to do with the most wonderful time of the year… for those who are getting into your pocket…), the Hampton Hill Theatre presents this new Christmas tale aimed for the youngest of the family (and as you know, that definitely does not include you…). Penned by Ken Mansin, with additional text provided by David Kerby-Kendall, this whimsical adventure is quite an enjoyable holiday treat – filled with a decent level of excitement as well as slightly touching moments exploring the power of kindness and friendship.

Directed by Stephen Leslie, the production effectively submerges audiences into its universe despite a limited, almost bare design – achieved through its cleverly executed staging, where intricate lighting and a few atmospheric tricks manage to build a whole ambiance exuding great theatricality. There is, however, a bit of mismatch when it comes to its writing – which, though generally enticing, and displaying a good degree of flow and engagement with the viewer, seems to be flawed in terms of pacing. Some excerpts just appear to move excessively fast, while other parts (especially some musical numbers) feel a little unnecessary and, on some occasions, as if halting the narrative more than contributing to it.

With a cast consisting of only three performers, the company boasts compelling chemistry as well as much inviting energy all through the performance. Yet, there are some tweaks to be made in some aspects of their interpretation, particularly regarding the vocals – several times, displaying some difficulties in pitch. Among them, though, a well-deserved praise must be given to Jack Dorning in his multi-role rendition – going through completely opposite personages ranging from evil sorcerers to talking animals; all the way flaunting extremely competent acting skills as well as refreshing commitment to every character.

A gifted holiday fantasy expanding the lore of the festive period, The Secret That Saved Christmas is guaranteed to regale the little ones (and that includes you again – take it as you please) with a wondrous time full of magic, charm and amusement.  Nonetheless, the potential of its premise still remains partially unwrapped – setting a good basis for what could be an emotionally extravagant and on the whole enchanting show, but letting part of that potential stuck down the chimney. It’s more than a solid effort to give yourself a first boost of the season’s spirit, but  there are still a few polarised traits in need of revision before making it to the really good ones list.

The Secret That Saved Christmas plays at London’s Hampton Hill Theatre until 24 December. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara