Perth Theatre has unwrapped an early Christmas present for theatre lovers, and it's nothing short of spectacular. A Piano Full of Feathers, a bold reimagining of the beloved Irving Berlin classic White Christmas, transforms the stage into a winter wonderland that both honours tradition and embraces innovation.
A Fresh Take on a Festive Classic
This isn't your grandmother's Christmas production. Director Jemima Levick has taken the familiar framework of two showbiz veterans falling for a sister act and infused it with contemporary resonance while maintaining the nostalgic charm that makes the story endure. The result is a production that feels both comfortingly familiar and thrillingly new.
Musical Magic and Visual Splendour
The staging is nothing short of magical, with feather-filled pianos serving as both literal and metaphorical centrepieces. When the iconic Berlin numbers begin - from the rousing "Blue Skies" to the inevitable, show-stopping rendition of "White Christmas" - the theatre crackles with energy that's genuinely infectious.
Standout Performances
- The chemistry between the romantic leads generates genuine warmth
- Supporting cast members deliver both comedic timing and vocal excellence
- The ensemble brings Berlin's classic numbers to vibrant life
A Christmas Miracle for Modern Times
What makes this production particularly remarkable is how it navigates the delicate balance between reverence for the source material and creative reinterpretation. The production acknowledges the original's sentimental appeal while ensuring it speaks to contemporary sensibilities.
The verdict? Perth Theatre has delivered a Christmas cracker that deserves to become a seasonal tradition. It's a production that reminds us why we return to these stories year after year, while proving they still have new magic to reveal.