Christmas in Exeter Street by Cordelia O’Neill.

What is the true meaning of Christmas? With all the commercial advertising and consumerism the meaning more often than not gets lost and the season becomes about “stuff” instead of what’s really important, whether that’s family, friends or simply being there for someone.

Christmas in Exeter Street opens the story of one family’s Christmas as Maggie Mistletoe (Tricia Adele-Turner) and Christian (Pete Ashmore) are preparing the family home for the festive season. Her children Joe (Finlay McGuigan) and Sam (Olivia Williamson) are in the loft trying to make it homely to sleep there as their grandparents are staying to spend the festive season with the family.

The cast of four plays a wide range of characters who all arrive at the Exeter Street house on Christmas Eve looking for somewhere to stay. From five Aunts, the vicar and his family to an Uncle from Australia. The final count is very impressive with every space in the house taken up with some ingenious sleeping spaces created.

Designer Harry Pizzey creates an effective and believable staging space. Odd pieces of furniture and old used boxes with random items around are probably similar to objects found in many lofts. Unsure why they are but no desire to get rid of them.

Director, Max Hutchinson has captured the essence of Christmas. Families from far-flung corners of the world come together to spend time and make memories together. Enjoying a nice Christmas dinner and celebrating. Although I am not sure sleeping in a bath sober appeals to me.

Christmas in Exeter Street is a wonderful Christmas story suitable for all the family. Children in the auditorium were engaging with the characters at times. There are some puppets, songs, animation, and four versatile cast members who all give flawless performances throughout. One of the best festive productions I have ever seen.