A Heartwarming Holiday Offering: “A Christmas Fair” at oldham Coliseum
Oldham Coliseum’s production of Jim Cartwright’s “A Christmas Fair” isn’t just a play; it’s an immersive experience that feels remarkably like a genuine community fundraiser. currently staged during the theatre’s renovations at Chadderton Town Hall, the production cleverly blurs the lines between performance and reality, drawing you directly into the festive spirit.
Director Jimmy Fairhurst masterfully utilizes the space, keeping the house lights up during most scenes to foster a sense of shared experience. You’ll find yourself instinctively clapping along to familiar Christmas carols and cheering on the youthful carol singers, mirroring the warmth of a local event. The interval itself transforms into a chance to support Oldham artists, with scented candles and prints available for purchase – items that seamlessly integrate into the set design.
A Unique Theatrical Setting
The site-specific hall presents both opportunities and challenges. While the acoustics aren’t ideal and the focus can shift unpredictably, the production’s chaotic charm largely overcomes these limitations. Surprisingly,given the Not Too Tame company’s reputation for boisterous,interactive shows,direct audience engagement is minimal.
However, Cartwright’s structural concept remains compelling. The play unfolds as a seemingly empty space, diligently swept by the caretaker (Lee Toomes), gradually comes alive with tables overflowing with bric-a-brac, toys, and teddy bears. This conversion, orchestrated by the arrival of characters like the assertive veronica (Samantha Robinson), the enthusiastic Lucy (Kelise Gordon-Harrison), the local vicar (Dickon Tyrrell), and the politically-minded writer Johnny (Paddy Stafford), is a visual representation of community building. It’s a fleeting moment, as everything is cleared away by night’s end, reminiscent of the immersive installation “Works and Days” but with a uniquely tangible quality.
Exploring Hidden Depths
The first act is light and breezy, setting a cheerful tone. This contrasts beautifully with the second act, where each character takes a turn revealing their personal struggles through poignant, aria-like soliloquies. These speeches, while dramatically static – offering backstory rather than immediate action – are delivered with genuine heart and charm.
You’ll find yourself moved by the vulnerability on display, all set against a backdrop of goodwill and festive cheer. ultimately, “A Christmas Fair” offers a slight, yet deeply wholesome, seasonal alternative to customary holiday entertainment.
Don’t miss:
* The immersive atmosphere that truly makes you feel part of the community.
* The charming performances from a dedicated cast.
* The chance to support local artists through the interval marketplace.
Where and When:
* chadderton town Hall, Oldham
* Running until January 2, 2024.
* https://www.coliseum.org.uk/spektrix/spektrix-events/a-christmas-fair/
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