What’s it about?
An all-singing, all-dancing showcase of the festive romance we all know and love. If you’re not already familiar with the seasonal favourite, White Christmas tells the tale of veterans and successful song-and-dance duo, Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, as they follow the stunning ‘Haynes Sisters’, Betty and Judy, for the holiday season as entertainers at a lodge in Vermont.
On arrival at the lodge, Bob and Phil discover it is owned by their old Army General who is struggling to keep his business afloat. Bob and Phil make it their mission to put on the show of a lifetime, bringing hundreds of veterans to the General’s lodge to pay their respects and celebrate the festive season in NYC, showbiz style.
Throw in some seasonal songs, terrific tap numbers and a whole load of wholesome romance, and you’ve got the perfect, festive theatre show to warm hearts this season.
Who’s in it?
They’ve certainly hit the nail on the head when it comes to casting. Each and every character is convincing and charming -and together, they tell the story in effortless style.
Jay McGuiness, best-known as a member of boyband The Wanted, and winner of Strictly Come Dancing in 2015, is an incredibly charismatic Bob Wallace; while his sidekick, Phil Davis, is played by West End star, Dan Burton.
Jessica Daley is a beautiful Betty Haynes, with a voice that will blow you away from start to finish; and the very talented Monique Young plays sister, Judy Haynes.
While the story focuses on the blossoming romances between Betty and Bob and Judy and Phil, you can’t help but fall in love with the heartwarming dynamic between Michael Starke as General Waverly and Lorna Luft as Martha Watson.
Special mention goes to director, Ian Talbot OBE and choreographer, Stephen Mear CBE. This has to be one of the most meticulously directed shows we’ve seen with exquisite choreography, mind-blowing musical numbers and a great mix of both moving and funny moments to give us all the feels this festive season.
What’s good about it?
This term gets thrown around a lot, but we really mean it – you MUST see this show! It’s one of the best productions we’ve seen on stage – everything from the music and choreography, to the characters and the set, is simply perfect. There’s no better way to truly escape and get lost in the magic of Christmas.
The talent is out-of-this-world. We’ve never been so blown away by such stunning vocals and pristine musical numbers. The dancing is exquisite, the set is magical and the story truly comes to life on stage – even more so than it does on the screen. This sensational, snowy story was made for the stage!
Before the curtain comes down, the audience are on their feet and we’re joyously singing along to White Christmas.
Who should see it?
Take your mum, your nan, your aunty, your friends or your partner – basically, just treat anyone you love to this theatrical spectacular. Even better if they’re feeling festive! It’s the perfect way to get you in the mood.
When is it on?
White Christmas is bringing its festive magic to the Sunderland Empire stage until Saturday 3 December 2022. Tickets are priced from £13 and are available from: atgtickets.com.
