Catch immersive show if you can for a final Christmas treat
Jim Cartwright’s production of A Christmas Fair showcases at Chadderton Town Hall, produced by Oldham Coliseum Theatre.
This Northern immersive show delves into the heart of Oldham and shows the importance of community. Through dramatic monologues, wittiness, heartbreak and audience interaction, this show is cleverly structured and one to see if you can.
An important visual aspect of this production was the site specific details. This is because the town hall was used as a Christmas fair with several tables laid out with stalls, such as a craft station and a toy station.
It was a thought-provoking concept to allow the audience members to walk around the stations during the interval and buy products from them. It was local creatives who made the stock which was a lovely interactive experience to support these businesses. The set design was highly effective and enabled the storyline.
The narrative focuses on five individuals who share their own personal takes on what Christmas means to them. For some it’s magical, whilst for others, it’s the hardest time of the year.
The contrast in their perspectives was portrayed beautifully through their acting and the script-writing. For example, Kelise Gordon-Harrison, who plays the role of ‘Lucy,’ takes us on a miraculous journey sharing the importance of her Christmas fairy that belongs on the top of the tree.
Kelise’s monologue was heartwarming and nostalgic as she utilised the performance space to spread her joyous story.
Whereas, Lee Toomes who plays the role of the ‘Caretaker’ speaks his dark truth behind Christmas and grips the audience with his engaging plot.
All five of the actors have a unique soliloquy and all told them excellently reinforcing how Christmas is different for everyone.
This show is full of warmth and fun, with festive music playing, children singing and the extravagant Christmas tree.
The cast, creative team, Jimmy Fairhurst and Oldham Coliseum have done a wonderful job on this production. There was laughter all throughout the room reiterating how theatre brings people together.
The Coliseum is community-driven and this production is an excellent way to embody their vision of storytelling that has meaning behind it.
The final showing for Christmas Fair is tonight (Friday, January 2).
For tickets visit https://www.coliseum.org.uk/spektrix/spektrix-events/a-christmas-fair/
Review by Charlotte Williams
