Nativity The Musical Review

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Nativity The Musical is back at The Regent Theatre in Hanley! The last time it was here was around 7 years ago in its West End format! This time around, the mayhem in Bethlehem is being performed by Stage Productions and features loads of local talent!

Every parent at some point in their life has had to pretend to be excited when their pride and joy tells them that they’re going be A TREE in their school nativity. And let’s face it, these shows are only ever good when your own child is doing something. Come on... admit it! 

Well at the failing St Bernadette’s School, they’re attempting to mount a musical version after numerous failed attempts! The only trouble is that teacher Mr Maddens has promised that a Hollywood producer is coming to see the show to turn it into a film, and he’s only said this to get one up on an old friend who runs a rival private school. His teaching assistant, the crazy Mr Poppy is drafted in to add some sparkle and shine to the proceedings, and hilarity ensues.

I’d almost describe it as a Panto and a Musical with an engaging story all in one production, and it’s aimed at the whole family.

The cast were fantastic and James Dawe was hilarious as man child Mr Poppy, if not a little over the top. His timing was great, to the point that some of it seemed to be real improvisation. 

The ensemble of 33 children were all superstars too, and not just because they had the cute factor. There were some genuinely great performers amongst them, and it’s great to know that there are some aspiring local young stars in the mix.

The whole things culminates into watching the Nativity take place, and unlike most other productions, instead of having one big number at the end, we were treated to a multitude of them.

Featuring all of your favourite sing a long hits from the movies including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, & She’s the Brightest Star, Nativity The Musical is the perfect thing to put you in the festive mood.

Whilst not as polished as the West End tour, all in all, it was a heart warming, colourful feel good festive treat! Hands down the best nativity I’ve ever seen (Besides my Son’s every year of course) It needs some work in places, and the set wasn’t the most creative I’ve ever seen, but that goes hand in hand with being an amateur production. It’s just fantastic to see local talent being championed in our area, and it’s comforting to know that there are some bright futures ahead within the arts.

Johnny and Kai have a tough act to follow with their Pantomime Cinderella this year. I’m sure they’re more than game for the challenge though!

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

It's playing at the Regent Theatre NOW, up until and including Saturday 6th December. Tickets are on sale and are available by calling the Regent Theatre Box Office on 0844 871 7649. You can also visit www.atgtickets.com/stoke for tickets and info.