Nativity at The Regent – Review
As December begins, schools all over the country start preparing for the classic Nativity play.
Back in the early 2000’s the hit musical film – Nativity – became a modern classic later becoming an onstage musical written by Debbie Isitt and lyrics by Nicky Ager.
Stage Productions – a community interest company in Stoke-on-Trent – is staging this delightful comedy at The Regent and giving local children the chance to sparkle and shine – Review by Mel Osborne
Mr Maddon(Dan Booth) is an ex actor turned teacher who is nursing a broken heart when he’s landed with hapless teaching assistant Mr Poppy (James Dawe) and the responsibility of staging this years nativity play.
What appears an ordinary event at an ordinary school, soon spirals into a web of lies, deceit and hilarity – plus a visit from Hollywood.
(Images supplied by The Regent)
They say never work with children or animals, but Stage Productions has done just that and with enviable ease with an ensemble of around adult performers, around 15 children and one adorable, cute Jack Russell as Cracker (played by Theo).
Stage Productions is a community Interest company and produces high calibre shows of professional standard.
James Dawe as Mr Poppy is exceptional. His portrayal of the loveable but impulsive teaching assistant was faultless and his on stage interaction with the children was electric.
The children looked like they were loving being on stage and Dawes rapport with the young performers was testament to that.
Dan Booth as Paul Maddon delivered the role honestly and with passion, making a perfect straight man for Mr Poppy’s tom foolery – it was impressive how he didn’t flinch during some hilarious moments.
It was wonderful to see such talented young performers from the area and the actors playing Star, Alfie and Ollie were tremendous and displayed natural talent and impeccable comedy timing.
It was delightful to see how connected they were with their roles and had great on-stage presence.
The show’s scenery was courtesy of a digital screen which was used with good effect accompanied by a live band, conducted by Johnthon Cliffe.
Nativity offered the whole package. The choreography was exceptional and of course the songs were sung with gusto.
Notable performances were TJ’s Good news and Star’s Sparkle and shine.
It was an absolute delight to see Stage Productions’ Nativity and witness the home grown talent of Staffordshire. It is a sparkling shining triumph which has an immense energy and effort.
To have west-end quality productions at a fraction of the price is a Christmas gift to us all.
5 stars
Nativity is at The Regent until Saturday 6 December 2025. For more information please visit The Regent HERE
