If you’re looking for some Christmas cheer for the kids over the summer break, look no further than The Santa Claus Show, written by Tim Bray (who does a star turn himself, as the Christmas Turkey, entertaining kids of all ages, as they arrive.)

A talented cast – with a stand out performance by Tim Raby, who captures just the right mix of jolly and wisdom, playing the man in red – and memorable songs written by Jason Smith, ensures this is a show the whole family can enjoy.

Other performance highlights include brief appearances by the cutest elves in town, Connor and tiny wee Maya Lamb; the goofy physicality and well timed wit Ashley Hawkes brings to Santa’s not so little helper, Elfie; singing interludes from the versatile and engaging songbird, Elle Harris; and Bridget Pyc’s extraordinary Barbie.

Bray wrote The Santa Claus Show 15 years ago, and its perennial charm and wholesome message to children loses nothing over time. That’s the lovely thing about producing a Christmas show for kids: there’s a clear expectation and with no room for irony when it’s all about Santa and the little ones, the foundations are clearly laid for some good-hearted fun.

Our central character, Kelly, learns the spirit of giving and sharing, is far more rewarding than gloating over the large amount of loot received in her Christmas pillow case, as ordered via her long list to Santa.

Two able NZ Sign Language Interpreters (Kelly Hodgins and Lynnley Pitcher), give a performance side of stage that is as engaging and entertaining as the cast, and makes this show as accessible as possible, for all kids.

Lighting design by Robert Hunte is effective throughout, with UV to show children’s letters flying to the North Pole, a big highlight for the little ones. By contrast, Trygve Wakenshaw’s shadow puppetry depicting Santa’s toy manufacturing shop, while very clever and visually impressive for the adults, didn’t sustain the interest of the younger members of the audience, for its full duration.

Musician extraordinaire Robbie Ellis hits the right note from his first sleigh bell through to his expert keyboard stylings in the finale. I’d love to see what he could do on a full set of ivories. His playing of Smith’s variations of well known Christmas carols and songs as incidental music; choice of sound effects, and ability to play the keys with his left hand while blasting up a storm on trumpet in his right, were all expertly delivered.

Merry Christmas to Tim, his cast and crew. I hope Santa brings them lots of full and happy houses this Christmas.

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