Scrooge

Published Friday 17 November 2006 at 17:25 by Alan Bowler

The door flew open and in strode Scrooge, played by Michael Barrymore, centre-stage to whoops of delight from the packed house. This was not the expected gruff shuffling old humbug Scrooge but a sprightly, younger version than previously depicted in stage and film versions. But neither was it the strident Barrymore of TV fame with catchphrases galore. This was a somewhat subdued comedian playing it straight. Only in the latter scenes did his comic skills gradually infiltrate into the character and by then this musical was truly on fire.

While Barrymore is in most of the scenes, he does not overshadow a wonderful cast who sing, dance and act out of their skins to produce a magnificent musical that Bill Kenwright can be justifiably proud of.

Highlights include Mr Fezziwig, played by Bryan Kennedy, a fabulous Dickensian creation, Marley’s ghostly appearances by Barry Howard, the huge form and voice from the Ghost of Christmas Present from Anthony Stuart Lloyd and Geoffrey Abbott’s Bob Cratchit, who gets it spot on while Tiny Tim brings a tear to the eye with his solo number. And where does the Ghost of Christmas Past, played by Sheri Copeland, appear from? It was pure magic. Superb sets, dramatic lighting and marvellous illusions help keep the audience enthralled.

I did not like the Father Christmas costume - it was out of context. However, the end result is a sure-fire winner and the entire cast deserved their standing ovation.

On his final bow Barrymore said it was good to be back home, and the audience agreed - it’s good to have him back.