We take a look at what is being said about this very adult take on the classic festive story.
Theatre & Tonic: “You’ll leave with a spring in your step and a bit more Christmas joy glowing in your heart than before. If you need a show filled with riotous fun, filthy gags and outrageous amounts of innuendo then I would recommend this show for you.”
London Theatre Reviews.co.uk: ** 1/2 “It is Joshua Coley who (as well as the writer of the piece) is the shining tree-star of this show as Mum and the Snow Queen – he is a fantastically feisty performer, delighting us whenever he steps onto the stage, and relishing his Pantomime Dame-esque role with pizazz! The musical numbers are generally very good and great fun, though some could be tightened up a little, and the lighting (Oliver McNally) and sound should be commended for its excellence throughout.”
The Reviews Hub: *** “That said, it is generally a fast-paced evening of adult childishness. There may be bigger, brasher, bolder and more bonkers adult pantomimes around London this season, but when the Turbine Theatre’s contribution gets going, it is appropriately cracking good fun.”
North West End: “Packed with pop culture references and altered lyrics of chart-topping songs, this production pushes the pantomime boundaries to make for an evening of ‘absolute filth’ and eccentric entertainment.”
The Upcoming: *** “The story creatively tackles themes of machismo and fairy-tale settings, brimming with double meanings and clever tongue twisters, resulting in a delightfully intricate and intellectually stimulating experience for a mature audience.”
Adventures in Theatreland.com: “The Nutcracker is both cheeky and festive. Beyond the laughs and chuckles, the show ultimately explores themes of love, making it a timely and relevant choice for the festive season. The show manages to strike a balance between being irreverently funny and conveying a heartfelt message, providing a unique and enjoyable experience for those seeking a raunchy yet heart-warming pantomime.”
Sardines Magazine: ** “This show, written by Joshua Coley, just isn’t very funny I’m sorry to say. The title may well be the best thing going for it. Coley has mysteriously joined the cast at the last minute after Amy Anzel – who had been announced in the cast last week, pulled out of the entire run due to illness.”
First Night Magazine.com: *** 1/2 “With a few stains scattered around but an overall positive score, The Nutcracker fulfills its promise by being both cracking and nuts (and also, cracking nuts) with a silly yet entertaining piece which, though not the most polished, still manages to give you a nice facial… expression. Some small, yet significant tweaks would give it a stronger personality – as a result, shining brighter deeper than its competitors, and perhaps being the one that finally tops them all.”
The Nutcracker – A Very Adult Pantomime continues to play at the Turbine Theatre until 23rd December.