The Elf Who Was Scared of Christmas – Charing Cross Theatre

The Elf Who Was Scared of Christmas at Charing Cross Theatre, London (available to watch via Stream.Theatre).

Star rating: four stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ✩

It’s always a treat to see a joyful, affirmative Christmas show for preschoolers. And this year it carries a new resonance because it is such a relief to be in a theatre sharing escapist magic with tinies after such a long period of darkness. Bravo producer Danielle Tarento for putting this on.

Devised, co-written and performed by Gina Beck and Neil McDermott, The Elf Who Was Scared of Christmas is a 50-minute two-hander which tells the story of Cupcake (Beck) who suffers from Christmas phobia = something of a professional disadvantage for an elf.

Figgy (McDermott) helps her to confront her fears by inviting three children (Nico, Enzo and Roddy on video) to tell her what they like best about Christmas. Song, dance, some good mime, kindness and encouragement then show Cupcake – and of course any one in the audience who is scared of anything – how to take the first step on the staircase. Literally in Cupcake’s case because she has an imminent present delivery job to do.

There’s lots to admire in this commendably simple, neat, low-budget show which showcases two talented actors: the wistful honesty Beck brings to Cupcake, for example and McDermott’s warm singing in harmony. Also enjoyable is the lively, colourful movement work (directed by Michelle Edwards) and the original song ‘The Elf Who Was Scared of Christmas’ is a highspot.

So is the finale. Once Figgy and Cupcake have seen off their respective demons, they give us a concert comprising an imaginative medley of Christmas songs including ‘Let It Snow’, ‘Deck the Halls’ (at top speed), ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’ and a jolly, folksy, cumulative number ‘Must be Santa’ which was new to me.

And I shan’t forget McDermott’s use of, for example, “Brussels Sprouts!” and “Crackers and cheese! ” as expletive/exclamations either. I might adopt them as a new year, language clean-up resolution.

Susan Elkin