On Sunday my 6 year old and I went to check out Little Bulb’s The Nutcracker, currently playing at St Martin’s Theatre, better known as The Mousetrap Theatre. Walking in we were greeted with some fantastic pre-show entertainment, a five piece mouse band playing all the classic Christmas favourites. We were all encouraged to sing a long with such festive favourites as “All I Want For Christmas is You” and “Last Christmas” all with a mouse theme. It was at this point in the show that we as the audience became mice and the sixth member of the cast.

As the show starts the mouse band separates and changes to become various members of the cast, the two children, Fritz and Clara, their Father, exotic Auntie, Sugar plum fairy and Mouse King, something my little one thought was fantastic. The 5 actors did an amazing job bringing each of these characters to life and the audience was thoroughly invested in the story they created.

A simple set with some cardboard moving boxes was used extremely effectively and enhanced by intricate lighting and costumes referencing the nostalgia of the 80s and 90s for all the parents.

There was a considerable amount of participation throughout the show which the children loved though it was not always clear when our participation was needed. Over all Little Bulb bring a fresh new take on the nutcracker story with lots of humour and with a running time of about an hour it’s pitched just right for all of the 5 and up age recommendation. Perhaps one of the most fantastic touches was during the finale when we were warned not to reveal the final twist to others and with the show taking place at the same theatre where The Mousetrap is in residence it truly felt magical. If you’re looking for something different for the little ones this Christmas with a great message, fantastic performances and some poo jokes then look no further than Little Bulb’s The Nutcracker.

Review by Alexandria Wharram

Little Bulbs Nutcracker is playing at St Martin’s Theatre until the 4^th of January. You can find out more and book tickets here.

If you like this review of Little Bulbs Nutcracker you might also like my review of Robin Hood at New Wimbledon Theatre, Stick Man and Beauty and The Beast at Fairfield Halls.