It seems that genetics may to blame for the world’s ills, after all. Bertie Scrooge, the mean proprietor of Bertie’s Bits and Bobs is, most likely, a relative of Ebenezer. And he’s every bit as much of a curmudgeon.
Devised by the students of Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and directed by the wonderful Andy McGregor, Humbug! is a psychedelic journey into a man’s tormented psyche.
It’s more like a Christmas pop song than carol, though. A fabulous Bailey Newsome plays Scrooge just right, more grumpy than ferocious (this is primarily aimed at wee ones, after all) and the excellent young cast play fast and loose with the original source material.
Here, the brilliantly named Mysterious Stranger (a charismatic Sam Mcdonagh) provides Scrooge’s employees with a magical snow globe which will help him see the error of his ways, thus restoring festive cheer.
Aaron Bennett is a classic daft boy as George, Leah Byrne as Julie teaches everyone that to be a shining star, you have to look deep within… And dance.
Mary McCartney as cheeky Holly proves a big hit with the kids, as they rush to help her with her dance moves, and decorate the Christmas tree.
Meanwhile, McGregor’s songs- which span genres- are catchy and daft, and it’s all warm and surreal: in short, it’s more Vic and Bob than Bob Crachit, with its fart gags and left-field wit.
Any show with a character called Russell Sprout, and a subplot which is an indictment of too much time on social media, deserves respect. It’s sweet and funny, and these are the stars of tomorrow.
(Lorna Irvine)
Photos: Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
At Tramway Glasgow until December 31st.
thetempohouse 