A Christmas Carol At Sherman Theatre, Cardiff Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Kathy Sanderson
When I went to see A Christmas Carol at the Sherman Theatre, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Let’s be honest, every version I’ve seen before has been a bit dingy, dark, and, well, miserable. But this production was nothing like that—it was refreshing, joyful, and full of heart.
Set in 1843, we meet Ebenezer Scrooge, played brilliantly by Hannah McPake, who’s finally reached her goal of becoming the richest woman on the Rich List. Now, I’ll admit it was strange seeing Scrooge as a woman at first, but it worked so well, especially as we learned more about her past. The way the production explored how she ended up so closed off to the world—being torn from her mother and sent to the workhouse as a child—was heart breaking. It made you feel for her, even while she was being utterly vile to everyone around her.
What really stood out to me was how relevant and local it felt, with the story being set in Cardiff. And that use of Mari Lwyd—a horse’s skull used in Welsh Christmas traditions—was genius. It added a unique touch when exploring Scrooge’s past and was something I’ve never seen in any other version of the story.
The cast was small but so talented, with everyone but McPake playing multiple roles. Emily Ivans Hawkins was a highlight for me, with her incredible voice as Mrs Cratchit and her hilarious turn as Mrs Fezziwig. Owen Alun as the Ghost of Christmas Present was just brilliant—his humour and glitter-throwing antics brought so much joy, and those little bauble helpers were an absolute riot.
The music was another standout. It was almost entirely original, with a fresh, modern score that perfectly matched the energy and tone of the production. The only traditional element came right at the end, with the audience joining in on a carol that brought everyone together. It was such a clever way to blend the new with the classic.
Visually, it was stunning too. The “Bah! Humbug!” sign above the stage was such a clever detail, changing to fit different moments in the story. The set and costumes were so well done, bringing Victorian Cardiff to life while keeping the production feeling vibrant and magical.
The finale was something else. The entire audience was on their feet clapping and cheering, and the cast fully deserved that standing ovation. By the time I left, I felt more Christmassy than I have in years—just what you want from a show like this.
Joe Murphy’s direction brought this classic to life in a way I’d never seen before. It kept the essence of Dickens but gave it a fresh, modern twist with plenty of laughs and even more glitter. If you’re looking for something a little different this Christmas—something magical, heart warming, and full of surprises—this is the show for you.
I give this show 5/5 an excellent start for Christmas
Tickets cost from £16
A Christmas Carol is at Sherman Theatre, Cardiff from 22nd November 2024 – 4th January 2025. For more information or to book tickets visit https://www.shermantheatre.co.uk/ or call the box office on 029 2064 6900. Sherman Theatre, Senghennydd Road, Cathays, Cardiff, CF24 4YE
Rating: 5/5