• last year
Have you been feeling the Christmas spirit this December in Farnham? Is it the magical lights? The chill in the air? The festive tunes? No. I learned this week that our local festive spirit is due to the mystical influence of the fabled Christmas Lobster, whose story is being told this season in a fabulous new Christmas show at Farnham Maltings.
Rooted firmly in Farnham, the show follows The Society for Christmas Creatures, who have trekked far and wide searching for Christmas creatures of every shape and size. Now they’re here for their toughest mission yet: to find the elusive Christmas Lobster and discover the true meaning of Christmas.
Farnham Maltings have worked together with theatre company Bucket Club on this production, who are known for their fun-fuelled and energetic shows. ‘Lobster’ is no exception – director Nel Crouch and her splendid team have built a unique story, together with a very witty script and inventive design.
Watching the efforts of the brilliant cast was a workout in itself as they not only put in extraordinary performances but also play all of the show’s live instruments between them. Special mention must be made of cast member Ellie Showering who is also the show’s composer, developing songs and backing music that are not only atmospheric but add even more humour to the show.
At the centre of The Christmas Lobster is Sam (Robin Harris), an ordinary young boy who would rather be chilling at home for Christmas than dragged along on madcap adventures with his eccentric, Christmas-Creature-hunting parent. Harris is instantly lovable as our protagonist, and Patrick Bridgman as his father Hillary is the perfect hapless and endearing Dad who tries his best and just can’t seem to get it right.
Ellie Showering and scene-stealing Jamal Franklin make up the rest of The Society for Christmas Creatures and provide huge laughs with their quirky personalities. Franklin is a true comedian in the making, I could hardly take my eyes off him and it was refreshing to experience laughs without the innuendo or predictability of a panto.
The Christmas Lobster is conspicuously absent for most of the play, as The Society struggles to find him and discover the true meaning of Christmas. Be assured though, when the Lobster finally makes their appearance, it is absolutely worth the wait and as charming and delightful as you might wish for.
I advise you don’t miss The Christmas Lobster this festive season – something about having a show made in Farnham, about Farnham feels especially warm and Christmassy. Perhaps this is the start of a new Christmas tradition from Farnham Maltings?
Tickets are priced from £10 at https://farnhammaltings.com/events/the-christmas-lobster or by calling the Maltings’ box office on 01525 745444. Running time 120 minutes including an interval. Show suitable for all the family.

Category

😹
Fun

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