While traditional productions of A Christmas Carol dominate theatres across the UK this winter, Liverpool's Royal Court offers a distinctly local and hilariously irreverent alternative. The Scouse Christmas Carol transforms Charles Dickens' classic tale into a potty-mouthed, knockabout comedy that delights in its own audacity.
A Corrupt Scrooge With a Secret Past
Forget the miserly old man you know. In this version by writer Kevin Fearon, Paul Duckworth's Scrooge is a libidinous, foul-mouthed businessman with a silvery, brushed-back mane. He is not just stingy; he is actively corrupt. Following the mysterious disappearance of his colleague, Jacob Marley, Scrooge has doctored the will to inherit Marley's biscuit factory, setting the stage for a flood of biscuit-based puns.
The plot thickens with the introduction of Marley's formidable widow, Barbara, played with powerhouse vocals by Lindzi Germain. Suspecting foul play, she becomes central to a scheme where the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future are not supernatural visitations but a ruse concocted by a team of Garston ghost busters to scare Scrooge into a confession.
High-Energy Cast and Show-Stopping Numbers
Despite the deviation from the source material, the show's heart remains surprisingly true to Dickens' original message of generosity and community. The energetic cast, directed by Mark Chatterton, works tirelessly to elevate the material.
Lenny Wood delivers a wonderfully doe-eyed performance as the put-upon Bob Scratchitt, while Keddy Sutton showcases impressive versatility in multiple roles. The production is glued together by vibrant song-and-dance numbers, powered by Ben Gladwin's live band and Beverley Norris-Edmunds' choreography. A particular highlight is a scene where Duckworth's Scrooge, stripped down to his long johns, performs a rendition of 'I'm Too Sexy' by Right Said Fred.
A Festive Show With Bite
This is not a quiet, contemplative night at the theatre. It is a high-volume, high-energy spectacle designed for laughter. While some jokes land better than others, and the script occasionally relies on swearing where a clever gag might be expected, the sheer exuberance of the performance is infectious.
The Scouse Christmas Carol runs at the Royal Court theatre in Liverpool until 24 January, offering a uniquely Scouse take on a festive staple that is sure to leave audiences entertained.
