For a second year in a row, part of this year’s holiday festivities included a viewing of Wonderheads Christmas Carol. Last year was at the Belfry theatre, and this year at the McPherson. And last year, as with this year, I can emphatically say, this is my favourite stage adaptation of Christmas Carol!
The magic that is the Wonderheads is how much they are able to convey with the limitations of masks. With a static face, one might assume that conveying emotion and tone is difficult. If it is, these performers never let on. Watching the show, it almost feels like the facial expressions change on you. It truly goes to show the mastery of craft of these mask artists!
The movement of the set pieces (many on seamless castors) feels almost like a choreographed dance, that we’re moving seamlessly from one place to another. A particularly charming aspect is how the sign was used to set time and place and indicate changes from scene to scene.
Relying on a source material that has been adapted so many times, it’s amazing how even though Wonderheads relies on very classic elements from the original, they manage to make it feel fresh and new!
My only issue with this show is something a friend brought up that I didn’t personally experience. From her far upper seat in the Belfry balcony, the sight lines didn’t always lend themselves well, especially when the performers moved around the puppets. My suspicion is that this wouldn’t be as much a concern in all venues, but if you are going to this show in the future, I recommend finding seats centered to the stage if possible (but, they do sell out!)
I don’t think I would recommend this as a show for very young audience members, as there is some reading on the screen, some of the ghosts are a bit spooky, and inferring from context. But for older kids and adults of all ages, I truly believe that the wonder that the Wonderheads brings to this show is a joy to experience as many times as possible! Highly recommend making this part of your annual festive tradition!
