Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas brings a lively blend of festive fun and accessible science to the Garrick Theatre, creating an experience that delights children and keeps adults thoroughly entertained. The show begins even before the curtain rises, with riddles and questions displayed on a large screen that encourage young audience members to shout out their answers. It is an effective warm‑up that immediately sets an atmosphere of excitement and participation.

The story takes shape when Maddie bounds onto the stage with cheerful enthusiasm, announcing that she is on work experience at Santa’s Workshop and that the audience is her tour group. From this point, the narrative unfolds at a brisk and cheerful pace. Mrs Claus (Jennie Dale) is preparing for a party, but several festive disasters threaten to derail the evening. The Christmas crackers have mysteriously lost their snap, the lights are flickering, and the chef has eaten far too many sprouts, leaving an unfortunate smell lingering in the kitchen.

Maddie is joined by the enthusiastic elves Goggles (Zain Abraham), the Elf and Safety Officer, and Tinker (Kira MacCarter), the Toy Inventor. Together, they guide the children through a series of playful scientific explanations designed to solve each problem. With the help of the “Jingle Pad” and a large screen at the back of the stage, the show cleverly weaves educational content into the action without ever feeling educational.

Traditional panto elements are embraced with enthusiasm. Cries of “Oh no you didn’t” and “She’s behind you” echo around the theatre, and the addition of falling snow and a lively snowball fight brings the entire audience together in a moment of shared joy.

By the end, order is restored at the North Pole and the audience leaves with smiles, laughter, and perhaps a little more scientific curiosity. Very Curious Christmas is a charming and imaginative family show that captures the spirit of the season with warmth and wit.

Four Stars.

Reviewed by Nina Gardner.

Photo credit Mark Senior.

Showing at The Garrick Theatre Friday 12 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026

Tickets and further information at the link below

https://ticketing.nimaxtheatres.com/tickets/series/GAMCC02K

Cast

Maddie               Maddie Moate

Goggles             Zain Abraham

Tinker                  Kira MacCarter

Mrs Clause      Jennie Dale

Photo Credits                 Rory Lynus