A Christmas Carol

The Spire, Brighton, December 12

THE Truestory production of A Christmas Carol is

back for its third run at The Spire.

It may not yet be a Brighton Christmas institution

but it’s certainly on the way there.

And, no wonder, this is a marvellous show, full of wit and invention, moving the story on at a cracking pace.

It’s true that it’s a great story but there are plenty of touches that draw out all the pathos.

Everything fits together: the Spire is a venue that is a perfect match for Dickens’ tale.

The old church architecture provides a suitable backdrop to the spectral visitations, while the lack of heating certainly gives a taste of a harsh Victorian winter – we certainly feel for Bob Cratchit suffering without even the comfort of a candle.

Gary Sefton is a delightfully nasty Scrooge, castigating late-comers among the audience and glaring at any of the talkative ones – the audience is very much a part of this show.

Plaudits to the actor who portrays the tormented Marley; the convivial Mr Fezziweg and the Ghost of Christmas Present – three very different roles, all handled with aplomb.

There’s great support from all the cast members, in a multitude of parts; this is a true ensemble production.

It’s highly atmospheric – the entrance of Marley’s ghost is eye-catching and the appearance of the mysterious Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come makes for a marvellous piece of theatre.

This is certainly a popular show: as attested by the near sell-out house – on a cold, wet, election night.

It was gratifying so many children there and even more gratifying to see them enjoying the play, it’s a great production for a first theatre visit.

It’s easy to see why audiences love it – if you haven’t seen it yet, you really should.

Maxwell Cooter