Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Wednesday 18 December, Burnside Ballroom, Burnside, South Australia
The Flying Elephant Company has pulled out a cracker (pun intended) and outdone itself with Book Nooks – A Christmas Musical, written by the talented South Australian playwright and composer Benji Riggs. Premiering at the elegant Burnside Ballroom, this production grabbed the very essence of Christmas magic by the baubles with a heartwarming tale that’s equal parts touching and whimsical. It’s a festive experience that promises to leave audiences smiling through their tears.
The Story: Where Christmas Magic Meets Real-Life Heart
The narrative revolves around 11-year-old Jack Barker, who is grappling with the bittersweet reality of spending his first Christmas without his beloved grandpa. When sorting through his grandpa’s old bookcase, Jack stumbles upon a magical world inhabited by Grunkels – mischievous, miniature creatures tasked with crafting Christmas sweets. These tiny beings aren’t just about sugar and spice; they help Jack uncover memories, cope with loss, and rediscover the joy of the season.
Benji Riggs has a talent for weaving personal and emotional storytelling with fantastical elements. He’s drawn inspiration from holiday classics like A Christmas Carol, and it shows. The story’s Dickensian undertones, mixed with the charm of modern musical storytelling, create an enchanting world that feels at once familiar and refreshingly original. Both the writer and the artistic director of this delightful story Benji is a mean talent. Last seen in the magnificently played lead role in ‘The Curious Story Of The Dog In The Nighttime’, Riggs is definitely one of Adelaide’s best whether he’s wearing his ‘production’ hat or his ‘acting’ one.
The Music: A Feast for the Ears
The orchestral score, composed by Riggs, is a standout feature. Drawing subtle influences from Sondheim, the music balances hauntingly beautiful melodies with playful and lively arrangements. Songs like ‘The Grunkel Jig’ bring humor and energy, while the poignant ballad ‘Christmas Through the Pages’ tugs at the heartstrings. The balance of lighthearted numbers with deeply emotional pieces ensures that audiences of all ages remain captivated.
Performances That Shine
The cast delivers a heartfelt and energetic performance. Young Jack is played with endearing vulnerability by a rising local talent, Nemanja Illic, whose portrayal resonates deeply with both children and adults. Last seen playing the young Elvis Presley in the recent Elvis Musical at Adelaide Festival centre, Nemanja has the ability to draw in the audience by the heart strings. A kid that’s going place. The Grunkels, brought to life by a team of vibrant performers, steal the show with their quirky antics and delightful choreography. Keira Wubbolts, Harrison James Thomas, Jonathan Siow, Ava-Rose Graves, Milla Illic, Sophia Genery (Big stage presence for one of the younger performers), Khushi Choudhari are terrific are adept to to deliver the vibrancy and energy of Christmas as per Rigg’s imagination. They all shine and I’m very keen to see their future gigs in this industry of ‘Show’. Josh Curtis as Cecil (The Grunkel with the biggest heart) holds the stage well and easily and authentically engages with the character of Jack. There well Supporting roles, such as Jack’s grieving mother (played in her second role Keira Wubbolts) in the show by and the wise bookshop owner (Steven Parker) who helps guide him, add depth and warmth to the narrative.
Benji selected well with this lot. Each have the acting abilities BUT also the vocal chops too.
The Venue: Burnside Ballroom
Set against the historic backdrop of the Burnside Ballroom, the production exudes intimacy and charm. The ballroom’s vintage décor lends itself beautifully to the show’s warm, nostalgic aesthetic. Twinkling fairy lights and a minimalistic yet effective stage design allow the story and music to take center stage, creating an atmosphere that feels as magical as the story itself. The quite large space was cleverly worked to create, well, a nook. With the use of black drapes and ample Christmas trees the ballroom had a feeling of intimacy. The big grand and centred Christmas tree on stage was impressive and well written into to being a feature of the story. Good work.
Why It Works: A New Christmas Tradition
What sets Book Nooks apart is its universal appeal. While younger audience members will revel in the antics of the Grunkels and the fantastical elements, adults will connect with its themes of love, loss, and the power of memory. This layered storytelling ensures that everyone in the audience takes away something meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Book Nooks – A Christmas Musical is a holiday production, it’s an experience and it has you pondering long after the final bow. Its combination of heartfelt storytelling, captivating music, and charming performances creating a modern Christmas classic. It’s the perfect festive outing for families and friends.
Sooooo, whether you’re a lover of musicals, a fan of heartfelt holiday tales, or just someone looking to soak in the Christmas spirit, Book Nooks is not to be missed. Mark your calendar swiftly, and prepare to be enchanted. Get out and about and support our local talent.
Book Nooks – A Christmas Musical
18-21 December 2024
Burnside Ballroom, Burnside, South Australia
Grab your tickets here!
